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Enakshi reviews the popular TV shown, the Expanse. An exclusive for Different Truths.
Compelling, refreshing and believable – The Expanse is all of these! Set in the future when humans have colonized the solar system, this show presents a complex story about interplanetary relations. The Earth, the Mars and the Asteroid Belt (Belters) form the crux of the plot. The story focuses on the complexities each one of these groups faces when it comes to survival. Following Darwin’s theory of evolution- survival of the fittest- The Expanse is a blend of politics, treachery, greed, wrath and uncontrolled emotions. It is not only genuine to the core but consists of mind blowing twists that leave every episode on a cliffhanger.
Following Darwin’s theory of evolution- survival of the fittest- The Expanse is a blend of politics, treachery, greed, wrath and uncontrolled emotions. It is not only genuine to the core but consists of mind blowing twists that leave every episode on a cliffhanger.
While Earth is busy salvaging its reputation in the solar system, Mars, too, doesn’t want to leave any stone unturned in preparing for a war that seems inevitable. Meanwhile, the Belters want to reclaim their lost pride by waging war at the two strong planets. These two superpowers- The United Nations of Earth and the Mars Congressional Republic- are constantly fighting over the mining rights in the Asteroid Belt. Caught amidst the conflict are the Belters who are not only exploited but also enslaved by these powers. While they are busy squabbling about who is in power, the story picks pace when a barbarous detective, Miller, comes in contact with a self-deprecating James Holden to find a missing girl named Julie Mao. Several events unfold and they unmask a conspiracy that will take the human race by a storm!
With each season, the mystery associated with the protomolecule (the biohazard that is being used for the sole purpose of waging war and using it as a new weapon) unfurls and makes the audience jump out of their skin. James Holden (Steven Strait), with his top-notch performance, doesn’t fail to leave a mark. He is humble, he is caring. At the same time, he is hesitant- often contemplating his own choices. When he is given the responsibility of Rocinante, the Martian warship, he belittles himself. But what is life without true friends! Amos, Naomi and Alex form Holden’s backbone and the crew of four sets course for an adventure that unleashes the wrath of the unknown!
Amos, played by Wes Chatham, is admirable in his own way. He doesn’t prepare for any situation. Instead, he believes in crossing the bridge when he comes to it. Detached from the matters of the heart or mind for that matter, Amos is one of the characters whose presence provides a sense of security.
Amos, played by Wes Chatham, is admirable in his own way. He doesn’t prepare for any situation. Instead, he believes in crossing the bridge when he comes to it. Detached from the matters of the heart or mind for that matter, Amos is one of the characters whose presence provides a sense of security. He is bold and undaunted yet manages to evoke empathy from the viewers. Naomi, on the other hand, is sensible, smart and sassy. Her knowledge of the ships and their functioning is what keeps the crew moving even in the most difficult circumstances. Alex, 
played by Cas Anwar, is authentic and patriotic at the same time. He is a Martian who has left behind his wife and his son at Mars because his love for the expanse was greater than the love he had for his family. He is strong and when it comes to piloting the ship, he is the boss! These four characters can be feted for their own reasons. But there are certain things are common to all of them- their dedication towards serving humanity, their selflessness and their flaws.
Another good thing about The Expanse is the cost-effective screenplay because presenting such CGI effects on a shoe-string budget is arduous. This Sci-fi show has an exemplary narrative. The word ‘meanwhile’ forms the essence of every 45-minute episode. Each story has its own problems and its own characters. The converging point of the story (when all characters come together) is an unanticipated one. Each character evolves as the seasons progress. The show makers have ensured that none of the characters are shown as either completely white or completely black. They have their grey shade. The story doesn’t have cartoon villains nor flawless heroes nor innocent victims. The show doesn’t only focus on these four protagonists. There are other actors like Thomas Jane, Frankie Adams, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Cara Gee, Shawn Doyle and Chad Coleman who do a fabulous job with their acting.
It is commendable how the writers, time and again, bring out the importance of valuing water and air. The subtle hints that indicate our cruel intentions as humans are enough to stir our mind.
Overall, The Expanse is a fascinating show that vaguely predicts our future. It is commendable how the writers, time and again, bring out the importance of valuing water and air. The subtle hints that indicate our cruel intentions as humans are enough to stir our mind. We might not have an alien species invading our homes in the near future but we will definitely have a water deficit. This show draws out a parallel between the situation now and a situation then using a plot that offers to entertain and retrospect at the same time.
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