What makes for great science fiction? Distant worlds filled with wonder, delight, and danger? Robots and technology beyond our wildest dreams? Vast battles for the fate of humanity? While many beloved books, films, and TV shows forge variations on our future along these lines, occasionally something truly remarkable emerges. As season three of Foundation begins, the series continues to captivate audiences with its ambitious storytelling and complex characters.
Foundation, based on Isaac Asimov’s seminal work, has been a standout in the science fiction genre since its debut. Starring Jared Harris, Lou Llobell, Cassian Bilton, Lee Pace, and Terrence Mann, the series is streaming weekly on Apple TV+. Created by David S. Goyer and Josh Friedman, the show brings Asimov’s sprawling epic to life, offering viewers a glimpse into a future filled with intrigue and adventure.
Adapting Asimov’s Vision
Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series, first published as a series of short stories in 1942, presents a future where the Galactic Empire is in decline. Asimov’s narrative, which features massive time jumps, is held together by the character of Hari Seldon, a mathematician who uses psychohistory to predict and alter the course of history. After being tried for treason, Seldon establishes the Foundation on the distant planet of Terminus, setting the stage for a centuries-long saga between the Empire and the Foundation.
Co-creators David S. Goyer and Josh Friedman have skillfully adapted Asimov’s work for the screen, making intriguing tweaks to the original story. Jared Harris brings a new dimension to Hari Seldon, portraying him as an interactive AI rather than just a pre-recorded hologram. Lou Llobell’s portrayal of Gaal Dornick, a gender-swapped character, adds depth to the narrative, as she navigates the complexities of time and relationships.
The Core Ensemble
Bringing Asimov’s vision to life on screen is no small feat, and the show’s core ensemble plays a crucial role in its success. The dynamic between Hari Seldon and Gaal Dornick is central to the story, with Gaal viewing Hari as a father figure despite the melodrama that unfolds between them. Leah Harvey’s portrayal of Salvor Hardin, Gaal’s daughter, adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.
The Empire, portrayed as a triumvirate of clones of the original Emperor Cleon, adds intrigue and tension to the story. Cassian Bilton, Lee Pace, and Terrence Mann bring their characters to life with skill and nuance, while Laura Birn’s portrayal of Demerzel, the Empire’s matriarch, adds depth and complexity to the narrative. As a secretly outlawed robot, Demerzel’s character bridges Asimov’s Foundation and Robot series, adding another layer to the story.
Season Three: New Challenges and Antagonists
As Foundation enters its third season, the stakes are higher than ever. The introduction of The Mule, played by Pilou Asbæk, adds a new dimension to the story. As a villain capable of controlling minds on a massive scale, The Mule represents a formidable challenge for the Foundation. His ability to command armies and manipulate individuals makes him a terrifying antagonist, one that forces the characters to confront their deepest fears and desires.
Season three also introduces new characters and dynamics, including Cody Fern and Synnøve Karlsen as fashion-forward influencers for the space age. These new additions bring fresh energy to the series, while the core ensemble remains the heart of the story.
The Legacy of Foundation
Foundation is more than just a science fiction series; it is a reflection on the nature of power, control, and the human condition. As the series continues to evolve, it remains true to Asimov’s original vision while offering new insights and perspectives. The show’s ability to balance epic storytelling with intimate character moments is a testament to the skill of its creators and cast.
As viewers embark on the journey of season three, they are invited to explore the complexities of the universe Asimov created. With its blend of action, drama, and philosophical inquiry, Foundation continues to be a must-watch for fans of science fiction and storytelling alike.
