Apple TV+’s latest sci-fi, Dark Matter, takes the multiverse concept and leans into the insanity while also keeping this thriller dark, gritty, and grounded.
Taking Blake Crouch’s 2016 novel and adapting it into a 9-episode first season, Dark Matter follows physicist Jason Dessen (Joel Edgerton) forced into another universe and switching places with an alternate version of himself. The alternate Jason has selfish intentions, replacing Jason1’s role in his family, which consists of Daniela (Jennifer Connelly) and son Charlie (Oakes Fegley).
It’s a show based on the precipice of failed opportunities and alternate possibilities, focusing on family dynamics and love as the driving factors behind all decisions. It’s a move that differs the show from other projects that tackle the multiversal concept, like Spider-Man: No Way Home and The Flash.
Tonally I just adore this show, and the balance between the grittiness and lovesickness that Jason1 suffers from is really admirable. Edgerton’s performance never stales and keeps the show fresh and enjoyable throughout its nine episodes. The cinematography and score certainly contributed to this vibe, making the visuals intriguingly striking and, in parts, even scary. The series meanders for a few minutes every episode, dragging down the series ever so slightly, but considering the highs it manages to reach, I find it acceptable.
Joel Edgerton playing more than one character in one show is a tremendous task, but he proves himself! I admittedly have never loved Edgerton as an actor, but his series of performances here changed my mind completely. I was on the edge of my seat simply from how he delivered his dialogue! The performances from some of the supporting cast were especially well done too, particularly from Connelly, Braga, and Fegley.
Braga’s character, in particular, delivered a great arc that made a lot of sense for her character, capitalizing on her chemistry with Edgerton. But what I think the team behind this show does best is develop situations between the characters in order to utilize the multiversal concept for eleviating tension. There’s one scene towards the end of the season where the two Jasons pass by a gun shop and miss each other by mere seconds. It’s a seemingly normal situation, but it’s made exciting after an incredible combination of performances, script, cinematography, and score.
Through an intense mastery of filmmaking, Apple TV+’s Dark Matter is a masterclass in suspense and emotional stakes, working its way amongst some of the best sci-fi shows this decade, but not without its flaws. And although the pacing is unpolished, the show thrills with its exciting concept and unique visuals, making for one of the year’s best series.
Dark Matter stars Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Connelly, Alice Braga, Jimmi Simpson, Dayo Okeniyi, and Oakes Fegley. The series was created by Blake Crouch and adapts his novel of the same name. Dark Matter Season 1 is now streaming in full, on Apple TV+.
