Exploring Alternate Realities: A Review of Apple TV+'s 'Dark Matter'

Imagine a world where every choice you’ve made has led to a different version of yourself. A world where the road not taken is not just a thought experiment, but a tangible reality you could explore. This is the premise of Apple TV+’s new science fiction series, ‘Dark Matter,’ adapted from Blake Crouch’s 2016 novel. The show delves into the profound questions of identity, choice, and the paths we take in life, promising to resonate with anyone who has ever pondered the ‘what ifs’ of their existence.

‘Dark Matter’ introduces us to Jason Dessen (Joel Edgerton), a physics professor living a seemingly ordinary life in Chicago. He’s a family man, teaching his son to drive, cooking dinner for his loved ones, and sharing a deep bond with his wife, Daniela (Jennifer Connelly). Yet, beneath the surface of his contented life, Jason harbors a sense of discontentment. His peers are achieving remarkable success while he feels stuck in a cycle of mediocrity. It’s a relatable sentiment, the kind that gnaws at the edges of our consciousness when we compare our lives to the highlight reels of others.

The series takes a dramatic turn when Jason is abducted and thrust into an alternate universe where his life has taken a drastically different path. He’s no longer the family man he once was; instead, he’s a celebrated scientist, wealthy and renowned, but without the wife and son that define his identity in his original world. It’s a classic case of ‘be careful what you wish for,’ as Jason quickly realizes that this new life, while seemingly perfect, lacks the very things that gave his old life meaning.

As Jason grapples with his new reality, ‘Dark Matter’ raises intriguing questions about the nature of happiness and fulfillment. Are we defined by our achievements, or by the relationships and small moments that make up our day-to-day lives? The show suggests that it’s the latter, as Jason’s quest to return to his family becomes the driving force of the narrative.

The show explores superposition from quantum mechanics as a storytelling tool

The idea that multiple outcomes can coexist until observed is mirrored in Jason’s journey through various realities, each reflecting a different outcome of his life choices. It’s a clever use of scientific theory to enhance the storytelling, though at times, the show’s reliance on technical jargon and complex concepts may alienate viewers not versed in physics.

Despite its ambitious themes, ‘Dark Matter’ struggles to maintain a balance between its philosophical musings and the need for compelling, character-driven drama. The show’s pacing is brisk, with episodes flowing into one another, creating a sense of urgency that keeps viewers engaged. However, this momentum sometimes comes at the expense of depth, as the series rushes through its exploration of alternate realities without fully delving into the emotional and psychological ramifications of Jason’s experiences.

Moreover, while the central romance between Jason and Daniela is portrayed with sincerity, the show misses opportunities to flesh out Daniela’s character beyond her role as the protagonist’s anchor. Jennifer Connelly’s talent feels underutilized, as she’s given little room to navigate the complex emotions her character must undoubtedly be experiencing.

Visually, ‘Dark Matter’ impresses with its depiction of multiple Chicagos across different universes. The VFX work is commendable, creating a sense of scale and wonder as Jason navigates the various iterations of his life. Yet, the show’s somber tone and color palette, dominated by shades of black and blue, reinforce a sense of melancholy that permeates the series. While this aesthetic choice aligns with the narrative’s introspective nature, a touch of levity or visual vibrancy could have provided a much-needed counterbalance to the prevailing gloom.

‘Dark Matter’ appeals to fans of reflective sci-fi and existential themes

It’s a show that prompts reflection on our own lives and the choices we’ve made. However, its execution is not without flaws, as it sometimes prioritizes plot over character development and complexity over accessibility. Still, for those willing to engage with its big questions and overlook its shortcomings, ‘Dark Matter’ offers a journey worth taking, if only to remind us of the value in the lives we’ve chosen and the people we’ve chosen to share them with.

Diving deeper into ‘Dark Matter,’ the series’ storytelling is both its greatest strength and its most evident weakness. The narrative is ambitious, attempting to weave complex scientific concepts into the fabric of a character-driven drama. The use of the ‘box’ as a plot device is a clever nod to the mysteries of quantum mechanics, and it serves as a gateway to the alternate realities that Jason Dessen navigates. However, the show’s commitment to exploring these alternate realities sometimes overshadows the development of its characters, leaving viewers craving a deeper connection to their journeys.

“Dark Matter series” by Sebastien de Buyl is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The character of Jason Dessen is portrayed with a palpable sense of urgency by Joel Edgerton. His performance captures the desperation of a man torn from his reality, striving to reclaim the life he knows and loves. Yet, the series doesn’t allow for much evolution of his character. From the outset, Jason is unwavering in his desire to return to his family, and this singular focus, while understandable, limits the potential for character growth. The audience is left to ponder what could have been if Jason had been allowed to grapple more with the temptations of his alternate lives.

Jennifer Connelly’s Daniela is another example of a character who could have been more fully realized. The series hints at her own unfulfilled dreams and the sacrifices she’s made for her family, but these threads are left largely unexplored. Connelly brings a depth to Daniela that suggests a reservoir of untapped potential, which the show could have delved into to create a more balanced and emotionally resonant narrative.

The visuals of ‘Dark Matter’ are undeniably striking

The portrayal of multiple Chicagos is executed with a level of detail that immerses the viewer in each distinct universe. The VFX team deserves praise for their work in creating these parallel worlds, which are both familiar and unsettlingly different. However, the show’s reliance on a dark and somber aesthetic, while fitting for the subject matter, can at times feel oppressive. A more dynamic use of color and light could have provided moments of relief and contrasted effectively with the darker themes.

The pacing of ‘Dark Matter’ is one of its more contentious aspects. The series moves at a breakneck speed, propelling Jason through his quest with little time for reflection or development. This creates a sense of momentum that is engaging, but also sacrifices the opportunity for quieter, more introspective moments that could have given the series greater emotional depth. The result is a show that feels more like a sprint than a marathon, with the finish line in sight from the start.

Despite these criticisms, ‘Dark Matter’ does succeed in prompting viewers to reflect on their own lives. The series taps into the universal human experience of wondering about the paths not taken and the choices that shape our identities. It’s a thought experiment brought to life, offering a glimpse into the myriad ways our lives could unfold based on seemingly inconsequential decisions. This philosophical underpinning is the series’ most compelling feature, inviting audiences to engage with the existential questions it raises.

‘Dark Matter’ is a series that grapples with weighty themes and presents a fascinating premise. It challenges viewers to consider the nature of happiness, the importance of personal connections, and the definition of success. While it may not fully capitalize on its potential in terms of character development and narrative depth, it remains a visually captivating and conceptually intriguing addition to the science fiction genre. For those willing to overlook its flaws and embrace its speculative spirit, ‘Dark Matter’ offers a unique viewing experience that will linger in the mind long after the credits roll.

In crafting the conclusion of this article, let’s step away from the clinical dissection of ‘Dark Matter’s’ components and instead reflect on the emotional resonance of its core message. The series, with all its interdimensional twists and turns, ultimately circles back to the simple yet profound truth that our choices define us.

They are the brushstrokes in the grand painting of our lives, and while we may sometimes gaze longingly at the canvases of others, it is our own masterpiece that holds the true value. ‘Dark Matter’ is a reminder to cherish the life we have, to find beauty in the everyday, and to recognize that the greatest adventures often lie not in the stars, but in the hearts we touch and the love we share. It’s a show that, despite its narrative imperfections, captures the imagination and stirs the soul, urging us to embrace the wonder of our own existence.