Buckle up and prepare for liftoff, because "Constellation" on Apple TV+ is a sci-fi puzzle box that will leave you both bewildered and enthralled. Don't expect instant clarity; this eight-episode odyssey thrives on suspense, peeling back layers of mystery like an interstellar onion.
The journey begins with Johanna Ericsson (Noomi Rapace), a troubled astronaut fleeing through the snowy wilderness. Cut to the International Space Station, where chaos erupts as space debris, including a long-dead cosmonaut, collides with the vessel. Johanna, separated from her crew, faces a desperate struggle for survival – but what does it have to do with the events back on Earth?
For a while, the show feels like a "Gravity" retread, with Rapace channeling Sandra Bullock's stranded astronaut vibes. However, the true strength of "Constellation" lies in its genre-bending nature. As Johanna returns to Earth, the narrative shifts from space thriller to psychological mystery. Strange occurrences plague her, memories shift, and the world feels subtly different. Has she lost her mind, or is something more sinister at play?
The answer lies in a mind-bending twist that would be criminal to spoil. Let's just say "Quantum Mechanics" isn't just thrown around as sci-fi jargon. This revelation propels the series into a captivating exploration of reality, perception, and the very nature of existence.
But the show isn't solely a cerebral exercise. It's anchored by compelling characters. Rapace delivers a nuanced performance as Johanna, her steely determination masking a vulnerability that resonates. Jonathan Banks excels in a double role, portraying both the enigmatic Dr. Caldera and his morally ambiguous brother. The supporting cast, including James D'Arcy and Barbara Sukowa, shines as well, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative tapestry.
The first few episodes might leave you scratching your head, wondering where the show is going. But trust the process – the payoff is worth it. "Constellation" may not be a traditional sci-fi adventure, but it's a thought-provoking, genre-bending experience that will linger long after the credits roll.
