The Finest Science Fiction TV Series
In my opinion, Pantheon is the finest science fiction (SF) television series ever made.
Who am I to make such a statement? I study major trends in science and technology professionally, focusing on the societal implications. I also have a forthcoming SF television series of my own. Because SF contributes so much to our progress with understanding these issues (and because it’s fun) I’ve watched thousands of hours of SF series and movies — nearly all of the better-rated ones. Some of it has been terrific.
Nothing, however, prepared me for Pantheon. I laughed, I cried, I shouted with glee like a child. Repeatedly. (I am 71.)
This has the finest writing I’ve ever seen, and not just in SF. Period. The writers never talk down to the audience. Pantheon has memorable and gripping characters, with believable motivations and development, with amazingly unexpected yet self-consistent story arcs. Though perhaps the most fantastic story ever told on screen, with one caveat everything in it is scientifically plausible, and indeed the writers take great care to comport with the best evidence of science and technology.
The villains are wisely nuanced, and you may have the shocking experience (as did I) of detesting a villain, only to discover that you’re rooting for him down the road. Yes, they are that well-constructed.
The heroes — like all of us — are flawed human beings who find the inner motivations and courage to transcend their weaknesses and rise into greatness.
My caveat is that the idea of Uploaded Intelligence — UI — may remain implausible. However, AIs can certainly fill a similar role in future, and recent discoveries suggesting AI self-awareness make this even more plausible. Also, the particular technology used for uploading may not serve, but that is quibbling because nanotechnology is moving towards such a capability faster than I had expected — and would serve far better. (For example, https://www.subsense-bci.com/)
If I had one wish for improvement, it would be that the animation have been photorealistic, as in some other recent cartoon series such as Death By Robots (which I watched, briefly, on advice that it would show me what is now possible). But that’s just my personal preference, and the writers may have had good reasons for choosing almost-realistic visual effects.
My only concern: the whole series beautifully wrapped up at the end of Season 2, in a finale that was awe-inspiring, yet it’s been renewed for Season 3. I can only hope (I would pray, if I thought that appropriate) that the writers are able to maintain the incredible level of storytelling and bring the story forward into even more staggeringly beautiful cosmic spaces.
I’m going to do whatever it takes to get some of these writers to join our own forthcoming SF television series, when we’re ready.
PS — This series completely transformed my views on cartoon-based storytelling. I almost didn’t watch it because of my prejudice. I thank God that someone I love talked me into it.
PPS — Here’s a teaser that won’t spoil the plot: two historic foes come together to resolve their enmity in a unique way. (It felt legendary to me.)
