When Does The Expanse Get Good?
Fans of The Expanse say it’s important to still watch the first season of The Expanse, but that the best seasons fall toward the back half of the series, with an incredible 3rd-6th season run. While most fans will tell new viewers they’ll get a taste for the show’s style and story early, being patient with The Expanse is rewarding for sci-fi fans of all types.
What Fans Say
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Fans of The Expanse celebrate its exceptional world-building, compelling characters, and adherence to scientific realism. Many appreciate its ability to juggle complex storylines while maintaining emotional depth and stakes. Viewers often laud the series’ social and political commentary, which mirrors real-world issues such as resource scarcity, immigration, and systemic inequality. The diverse cast and strong character arcs, especially those of Naomi Nagata, Amos Burton, and Chrisjen Avasarala, are consistently highlighted as strengths.
What Haters Say
Critics of The Expanse sometimes find the show’s pacing uneven, particularly in the early seasons, where the narrative takes time to establish its sprawling universe. Others mention that its dedication to scientific accuracy and political intricacies can feel dense or overwhelming for casual viewers. Additionally, some viewers felt that certain character arcs or plot threads received less satisfying resolutions, especially in later seasons.
Does the Show Fall Off in Quality at Any Point?
Opinions vary on when, if at all, The Expanse dips in quality. Many agree that the transition from Syfy to Amazon Prime in Season 4 brought changes in tone and pacing. While some fans felt the shift allowed for richer storytelling and better production values, others noted that the latter seasons leaned more heavily on slower character moments, occasionally losing the taut pacing of earlier episodes. However, most agree that the series ends on a high note, staying true to its narrative ambitions.
Aggregated Critic Commentary
| Season | Rotten Tomatoes Score | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 78% | 8.3/10 |
| Season 2 | 95% | 8.8/10 |
| Season 3 | 100% | 9.0/10 |
| Season 4 | 100% | 8.4/10 |
| Season 5 | 100% | 8.6/10 |
| Season 6 | 100% | 8.3/10 |
Critics have widely praised The Expanse as a benchmark for modern sci-fi television. Its commitment to authenticity, both in storytelling and visual effects, has earned comparisons to classics like Battlestar Galactica. The show’s political allegories and exploration of human resilience have been described as thought-provoking and timely. While some critics echoed concerns about pacing, the series’ consistent quality and thematic depth have earned it numerous accolades, including a Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation.
Overview of The Expanse
The Expanse is a gripping sci-fi series based on the novels by James S.A. Corey. Set in a politically fragmented solar system, the story begins with the disappearance of Julie Mao, an event that spirals into a complex web of interstellar conspiracy, political maneuvering, and existential threats. The show intricately weaves narratives from Earth, Mars, and the asteroid belt, showcasing the tense relationships between these factions.
The show stands out for its dedication to scientific realism, grounded depictions of space travel, and intricate storytelling. From its well-drawn characters like James Holden and the crew of the Rocinante to its nuanced handling of themes like colonialism, power struggles, and humanity’s place in the universe, The Expanse offers a richly detailed and intellectually stimulating viewing experience. Its six-season run garnered critical acclaim for its world-building and character-driven drama, making it a cornerstone of modern sci-fi television.
Season Highlights
Season 1 (2015)
Season 1 introduces viewers to the solar system’s political tensions and the protomolecule conspiracy. Detective Joe Miller’s search for Julie Mao intertwines with the Rocinante crew’s accidental involvement in a dangerous plot. Highlights include the detailed world-building and the unforgettable sequence on Eros Station.
Season 2 (2017)
Expanding on the protomolecule mystery, Season 2 delivers higher stakes with the Martian-Earth conflict escalating and the Belters vying for survival. The season’s climax, featuring the destruction of Eros and Miller’s sacrifice, is among the series’ most emotional moments.
Season 3 (2018)
Season 3 brings resolution to the protomolecule arc and opens the gates to new worlds. The shift from political intrigue to interstellar exploration reinvigorates the narrative. The episode “Abaddon’s Gate” showcases the crew’s resilience and moral dilemmas.
Season 4 (2019)
Season 4 explores humanity’s colonization efforts beyond the ring gates, focusing on the settlement on Ilus. The slower pace allows for character development, particularly for Naomi and Amos. The season’s tension lies in the clash between corporate greed and Belter autonomy.
Season 5 (2020)
Season 5 delves into deeply personal arcs for the Rocinante crew, particularly Naomi’s connection to her estranged son and Amos’ return to Earth. The rise of Marco Inaros and the Free Navy sets a dark, compelling stage for humanity’s future.
Season 6 (2021)
The final season condenses the battle against Marco Inaros while hinting at unresolved mysteries, particularly the alien entities introduced by the protomolecule. Though some fans wished for a longer season, the conclusion largely satisfies, staying true to the show’s thematic roots.
Similar Shows
- Battlestar Galactica – A sci-fi epic exploring survival, politics, and humanity amidst war.
- Firefly – A cult favorite blending space exploration with camaraderie and moral dilemmas.
- The Mandalorian – A character-driven space Western with thrilling adventures.
- Babylon 5 – Known for its intricate plotting and political intrigue in space.
- Dark Matter – A team-centric sci-fi drama with mystery and action.
If You Liked These, You’ll Like The Expanse
- Lost in Space – A family-oriented sci-fi drama focusing on survival and exploration.
- Foundation – A sprawling epic blending politics, philosophy, and futuristic storytelling.
- Altered Carbon – A darker, cyberpunk-inspired series with rich world-building.
- The 100 – A post-apocalyptic tale of survival, power, and human tenacity.
The Expanse is a masterclass in storytelling that appeals to both hardcore sci-fi enthusiasts and those seeking thought-provoking drama. Its rich characters, layered narrative, and exploration of the human condition make it a standout in modern television.