‘Dark Matter’ Review: Apple’s Sad Dad Sci-Fi Series Is Handsome but Shallow
The TV series "Dark Matter" seems to have been tailored for me or someone like me. It begs the question of how the decisions we make shape the person we become. For example, if I had chosen a different career, settled down with someone else, or started a family with different values, how different would I be as a person? In small ways, the answer is easy to imagine. Perhaps I would be taking a nap on a hammock rather than writing this right now if I had become a professional hammock tester for cold weather climates. However, what about my personality, views, and identity? Would they change significantly if I had made different choices? The answer is potentially yes, but to what extent and with what consequences remains to be seen.
If you're interested in these types of inquiries, you'll definitely relate to the nine episodes of "Dark Matter". However, if you constantly wonder about "what if" scenarios rather than valuing your present accomplishments and pursuits, you may find yourself experiencing a midlife crisis. While questioning possibilities can be normal and beneficial, focusing solely on alternate outcomes instead of acknowledging your current successes may result in impulsively making major life changes like purchasing a new car, finding a new partner, or adopting other short-lived expressions of independence.
The main character of "Dark Matter," Jason Dessen (played by Joel Edgerton), is not a typical middle-aged man experiencing a midlife crisis. However, the sci-fi series, which is based on a book of the same name by Blake Crouch, can be seen as an analogy for such a crisis that is thrust upon him. It explores themes of alternate universes and complex terminology, and has some interesting plot twists. The show is a way to contemplate important questions without actually facing them yourself. But even though the series includes many things that interest me personally, it ultimately falls short due to its generic nature. The story is too broad, which means even specific aspects that resonate with me are not developed enough to have a lasting impact.
Are you curious about the specifics? Well, let's hold off on that for a moment. First, you might be wondering what "Dark Matter" is all about. It's a drama from Apple that takes place against a black and blue color palette. The story revolves around Jason, a typical family man from the Midwestern United States. By day, he works as a physics professor at a community college in Chicago. Prior to heading to work, he teaches his teenage son Charlie how to drive, and after a long day of lectures he prepares dinner for the family. Although he loves his wife Daniela dearly, he feels unfulfilled. Compared to his colleagues, who are raking in awards and launching new companies, Jason is merely regurgitating old information to a classroom full of disengaged students. Despite his feelings of discontentment, he remains a devoted husband and father, although his once-bright spirit is beginning to fade.
One night, while it was raining and Jason was feeling sorry for himself, he drank too much. He was walking through his neighborhood in the North side when someone in a white mask suddenly appeared and threatened him with a gun. The stranger forced Jason to go inside an old, empty building and gave him an unknown liquid. “Are you content with your existence?” the person asked Jason in a menacing voice just before he passed out. “Have you ever considered what you could have been instead?”
After a brief moment, he finds himself forced into a large black box. Suddenly, everything becomes unclear, and he finds himself surrounded by people in protective suits. They cut off his clothes and wash him in a high-pressure shower while questioning him about his whereabouts. They inform him that he has been absent for 14 months and offer their assistance. However, they address him as either Jason or Dr. Dessen, but he is not the person they think he is. In this new world, Jason Dessen is the chief science officer and co-founder of a highly successful engineering lab. He is renowned and even received various honors and recognition. Nonetheless, he is not married, and his child doesn't exist. Despite the wealth and admiration, it's not the life he desires.
Right away, Jason catches on to the issue with "Dark Matter". Our protagonist doesn't have a genuine need to transform. Maybe he just needed a prompt to recall that his life before wasn't so bad after all. Nonetheless, he isn't lured to play out his professional daydream even for a second. Instead, he begins his quest for explanations: Who caused his predicament? What occurred to his past existence? And, above all, how does he reunite with his loved ones?
The large black cube, also known as "the box," is crucial and Jason quickly understands its importance. The pacing in "Dark Matter" is well-done and helps to prevent it from being shapeless. The episodes flow one into the other, similar to watching a nine-hour movie. However, the urgency and curiosity in each episode make it interesting to watch. Discovering how the box operates and the different realities it uncovers for Jason is captivating. The writer, Crouch, who is involved in writing most of the episodes, allows the viewers to contemplate alongside Jason. Together, they ponder about marriage, responsibility, and reaching fulfillment.
The movie "Dark Matter" cleverly understands that successful relationships are built on both little and big things. It's not just what you know about the other person, but also the significance of small details that create a deeper connection. Authentic gestures of care are important, as opposed to superficial or selfish ones. The romantic storyline is enjoyable, although the gallery manager and artist played by Connelly doesn't get enough exploration. The film spends more time showcasing stunning visual effects of various versions of Chicago in different dimensions, which is a highlight for me. It's these specific elements of "Dark Matter" that really stand out.
To start off, I have a great affection for Chicago. My fondness extends to the Chicago Cubs and, although they haven't won a Super Bowl in my lifetime, I also cheer on the Chicago Bears. The city's skyline, the "L" trains, and Pequod's Pizza all have a special place in my heart. The Logan Park neighborhood holds particular significance to me, as it happens to be where my wife and I stayed at our initial hotel and lived in our second apartment together. Additionally, I have a soft spot for heart-wrenching love stories, thought-provoking dramas, and even the actor Joel Edgerton (all you "Warrior" fans, make some noise!).
However, despite the personalized elements, "Dark Matter" lacks insightful character development and new profound ideas. The show is devoid of any notable epiphanies or lasting meaning, making it difficult to justify since it's not even fun to watch. The show's constant gloom and one-dimensional characters make it impossible to connect with the audience. Despite my willingness to enjoy the show, as someone who has a sentimental attachment to love stories and respects Edgerton and Connelly, the show missed the mark for me. It's unlikely to resonate with individuals who don't have a connection to the Windy City.
If you're still holding onto doubts and uncertainties, it might be worth trying this before making any drastic changes. Alternatively, consider booking a lengthy weekend stay in Logan Square as I know of a great place to accommodate you.
The television show called "Dark Matter" will air on Apple TV+ starting on Wednesday, May 8. The first two episodes will be available to watch. Subsequent episodes will be added every week until the last episode, Episode 9, airs on June 26.
