From massive sci-fi productions to wholesome, heartwarming content, here are a few shows I’ve been enjoying so far this Fall!
Foundation
I haven’t read “Foundation” by Isaac Asimov, but have learned that it is considered one of the most challenging sci-fi novels to adapt to TV with frequent time-jumps, advanced multi-world civilizations, and…math that predicts their future? Yup, that’s right. Right off the bat, there’s a lot of world/context building, and you’re initially left wondering “Wait – what’s going on?” But, the protagonist is asking herself the same questions, as you quickly get thrown into the sci-fi deep end and start swimming. The production quality and CGI is remarkable, and it’s clear Apple is taking a big bet here. I’m enjoying it so far if you’re looking for something to fill the scifi/space void (which for me is always) then check it out!
Maid
Maid is not a light watch, although there certainly is a lot of levity and lighthearted moments throughout. Based on a book by Stephanie Land, the show follows a young mother as she breaks away from her alcoholic boyfriend, and navigates a system of social support that seems pitted against her succeeding. To make ends meet, and without going over the income limit to qualify for social support, she takes work as a maid cleaning opulent houses (and some decidedly NOT opulent houses.) West Coast vibes abound, with the show being filmed in and around Victoria, which substitutes for Washington State. Plus, real-life mother/daughter duo of Margaret Qualley and Andi MacDowell feature, with Qualley delivering incredibly compelling and emotional scenes with seeming ease. It’s a worthwhile and powerful watch if you can handle some discomfort.
Squid Game
I’m late to the party on this one, but I was crushing Maid. Squid Game serves up the “Hunger Games”/”Battle Royale” vibes we’ve been missing for a few years, and follows hundreds of contestants as they compete in children’s games for cash…or die. Yup – ruthlessly die. Each contestant is selected for owing massive debt, and is thus motivated to accept the stakes. I haven’t finished yet, but it’s another Netflix show that you’re likely to binge in a few, short days.
Ted Lasso: Season 2
If you’re a fan, you’ve probably just crushed the season finale. But, if you haven’t been watching, Ted Lasso offers up the perfect pandemic content with a wholesome and hopeful vibe. I found the second season to get off to a bit of a slow start, but it quickly picks up pace (as does Richmond FC) after episode 3.
