Science fiction is one of the most beloved and intriguing genres in cinema, literature and television. The nature of science fiction content often limits its representation in a visual medium. They typically include futuristic technology, scenarios, or concepts that would be impossible to display in any form other than the written word. Books have the unique ability to utilize the reader’s imagination and present stories that simply wouldn’t work if presented on screen. With that said, certain shows effectively transform their written source material into a careful representation of the original story.
The most recent example of famous science fiction literature that became television is that of Netflix 3 body problem, that explores mind-bending ideas in space and time. Given the show’s popularity, Netflix is expected to release a second season of the show. 3Body Problem. Perhaps the most critically acclaimed science fiction series of this nature and The Expansion, a thoughtful story of futuristic travel through the solar system. Although The Expansion has come to an end In 2022, several series bring science fiction books to life in a similar way.
10
Under the Dome (2013-2015)
Based on the novel by Stephen King
For those with feelings of claustrophobia, Under the dome It may not be the best series to watch. Under the dome was originally a science fiction novel written by legendary American author Stephen King in 2009, and was later developed into a three-season series by Brian K. Vaughan. Under the dome follows the story of the townspeople of Chester’s Hill, Maine, as they are suddenly cut off from the outside world when a massive, impenetrable dome lands on their home.
While the concept is relatively simple, the series does an excellent job of bringing King’s vision to life. There are many important differences between the novel and the series, from changes in character development to the origin of the dome’s existence. However, even if it deviates from the source material, Under the dome stands out in its ability to demonstrate the hysteria that comes with isolation.
9
Foundation (2021-present)
Based on the series of novels by Isaac Asimov
Foundation imagine a future about 50,000 years from the presentin which all humans live under the rule of the Galactic Empire, the powerful governing body of the galaxy. The show is based on a series of science fiction books written by Isaac Asimov, with the first title originally published in 1951. The collection consists of seven episodes set over approximately 550 years.
For those who are die-hard Asimov fans and strongly attached to the original book series, the television series Foundation It might ruffle some feathers. While the show is loosely based on Asimov’s works, it shouldn’t go so far as to be labeled as an adaptation. The series shares similar characters and names, but is a self-contained universe. That said, the series still has a lot of great qualities and is undoubtedly fun.
8
The 100 (2014-2020)
Based on the series of novels by Kass Morgan
Kass Morgan Science Fiction Novel Series The 100 has a similar style to other famous young adult stories such as The Hunger Games or Divergent. Although the latter have been turned into film franchises The 100 was adapted into a series that takes place over seven seasons. The story imagines a universe where Earth has been decimated by nuclear warand the only remaining survivors live on 12 space stations orbiting the atmosphere.
When one of the stations discovers that its resources are limited, the leaders decide to send 100 young prisoners on a mission to Earth to determine if it is habitable. Upon arrival, they discover an unknown world and must face the challenges that come their way. The series has an engaging plot, likable characters and never fails to entertain.. Although The 100 ended after the seventh season, delivered an incredible story during its run.
7
Altered Carbon (2018-2020)
Based on the book by Richard K. Morgan
Altered Carbon takes place more than 300 years in the future, in a world with virtually unlimited possibilities. Humans have discovered a way to transfer their consciousness into cortical stacks and transfer them into synthetic bodies called “sleeves”. Consequently, individuals can effectively live forever – if they have adequate funds. The book was originally written by Richard K. Morgan in 2002 and adapted into a two-season series in 2018.
The plot follows Takeshi Kovacs, a member of elite soldiers known as “envoys” who wakes up in a new sleeve after centuries of unconsciousness. Kovacs is forced to help a powerful galactic executive in exchange for his freedom from resurrection. Altered Carbon It’s absolutely incredible and pushes the boundaries of traditional science fiction. The show is filled with excellent fight scenes, bold humor, and mind-bending concepts. Given the quality of the story, it’s a shame Netflix canceled it Altered Carbon after just two seasons.
6
3 Body Trouble (2024-present)
Based on the book by Liu Cixin
Netflix 3Body Problem is based on the famous book series by author Liu Cixin, with the first part being THE Three-Body Problem. The novel belongs to Remembrance of Earth’s past trilogy, and the TV series covers the content of the first book and parts of the last two. History encompasses the past, present and future, demonstrating how communication across the universe can trigger a series of irreversible events.
There are several differences between the television adaptation and the book series, but these are not surprising given the complexity of the novel’s theme. Many of the descriptions, concepts, and events are too complex to be displayed effectively on screen, but the program does a great job of communicating the content with the resources provided. 3Body Problem ended the 1st season with a cliffhanger ending, laying an excellent foundation for the next episodes.
5
Dark Matter (2024-present)
Based on the novel by Blake Crouch
Dark Matter was originally a science fiction thriller novel written by Blake Crouch in 2016. In May 2024, Apple TV took Crouch’s vision and brought it to life with a series of the same name. The show is absolutely fascinating, even though it is still significantly different from the book in several areas. Dark Matter follows professor Jason Dessen (Joel Edgerton), who is transported to an alternate reality that includes a different version of his own life. In an exploration of the multiverse, Jason travels to return to his original reality and return to his family.
The series takes the premise presented in the novel and improves it into a more digestible form.
Curiously, the show’s critical reception is generally better than that of the book, which is usually not the case. The series takes the premise presented in the novel and improves it into a more digestible form. While it may be slow, the concept is as intriguing as it is scary. Joel Edgerton offers a different performance that is difficult to pull off considering the context of the plot. Given its popularity, Dark Matter season two will certainly continue the mind-bending story in style.
4
The Man in the High Castle (2015-2019)
Based on the book by Philip K. Dick
The Man in the High Castle presents an interesting example in the context of the science fiction genre. It doesn’t necessarily propose any mind-blowing technological concepts, but it depicts a future in which the events of the past were realized differently. The series, loosely based on the novel of the same name, was originally published by Philip K. Dick in 1962.
In a dystopian world, The Man in the High Castle Imagine a timeline in which the Nazis and Japan were victorious in World War II. Consequently, the United States is divided into zones, controlled by the Japanese Empire and the Greater Nazi Reich. The plot follows Juliana Crain (Alexa Davalos), who comes across a mysterious tape that offers a glimmer of hope and a potential way out of the oppressed world. Although the show is primarily a form of alternate history, it is filled with sci-fi elements and makes for a fascinating story.
3
The Handmaid’s Tale (2017 to present)
Based on the book by Margaret Atwood
The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian television series based on the 1985 novel by author Margaret Atwood. The series was created by Bruce Miller and stars Elisabeth Moss, Joseph Fiennes and Yvonne Strahovski. The show follows the story of a young servant girl who is forced to deal with a new totalitarian government that subjugates women in this dark social upheaval.
- Cast
-
OT Fagbenle, Joseph Fiennes, Alexis Bledel, Elisabeth Moss, Amanda Brugel, Bradley Whitford, Max Minghella, Ann Dowd, Samira Wiley, Madeline Brewer, Yvonne Strahovski
- Release date
-
April 26, 2017
- Seasons
-
5
- Writers
-
Bruce Miller and Margaret Atwood
- Presenter
-
Bruce Miller
Based on the famous 1985 novel written by Margaret Atwood, The Handmaid’s Tale Imagine a futuristic dystopian society. Unlike many programs derived from literature the television series extends the book’s content significantly beyond the limits of Atwood’s ideas. There are currently five seasons released, with a sixth season coming The Handmaid Tale is expected to be released in 2025. Surprisingly, only the first season covers the plot of the book, while the last few episodes continue the story without source material.
The series follows June Osborne (Elisabeth Moss), who lives in a totalitarian society known as Gilead, located in the ancient United States. In this fictional world, birth rates are in free fall and, consequently, the fundamentalist regime treats women as property and confines them to a life of sexual servitude. The series is extremely harsh in both content and concept but it explores important ideas and effectively develops Atwood’s initial vision.
2
Silo (2023–present)
Based on the book series by Hugh Howey
Based on Hugh Howey There romance series, Silo is a science fiction drama series created for Apple TV and follows an engineer named Juliette who lives in a dystopian future. With the surface poisoned and the world all but ruined, residents live in an underground silo. When the community’s sheriff breaks protocol and leads to the deaths of several residents, Juliette begins to uncover the dark truth of the silo.
- Release date
-
May 5, 2023
- Seasons
-
2
- Directors
-
Morten Tyldum, David Semel
- Presenter
-
Graham Yost
Similar to The Handmaid’s Tale, Silo takes place in a dystopian future, but the circumstances are totally different. The hit Apple TV series is based on the book by Hugh Howey Silo trilogy of novels, which includes There, Changeand Dust. The show is set in a society where the surface is plagued by toxicity. Consequently, humans are forced to live under strict regulations in a huge underground silo that spans hundreds of levels.
At the forefront of the story is Juliette Nicholas (Rebecca Ferguson), an engineer who seeks to uncover the mysteries of the world in which she lives. The show is an excellent adaptation of the novels and is performed in a way that feels fresh. The dystopian premise is so unique, and the setting really brings it to life. Additionally, Ferguson delivers a stellar performance that bolsters the plot. There is currently a complete season, with Silo second season episodes being released periodically.
1
The Expansion (2015-2022)
Based on the book series by James SA Corey
The Expansion is considered one of the best science fiction shows out thereand for good reason. The series is based on a collection of novels written by James SA Corey, which includes ten episodes. Generally speaking, the television version covers the first six novels in its six seasons. The Expansion It takes place hundreds of years in the future, where humans have managed to colonize the entire solar system.
Mars is a fully developed planet that has transformed into an independent power with hyper-advanced technologyand there are political conflicts between the Martian government and Earth. After an important woman disappears, characters from different walks of life converge to get to the bottom of the case, which ends up revealing more than meets the eye. There are so many qualities that make this show lovable. The setting is complex, the plot is solid, and the hilarious character dynamics make it that much better.