5 Unmissable Sci-Fi TV Shows Based on a Book

Published on 28 July 2023 at 17:08

Your guide to what's on & upcoming, OntheBox. 

 

Silo - Season 1 available now on Appletv

"Silo" is a gripping sci-fi television series set in a post-apocalyptic world, based on the series of books of the same name by writer Hugh Howey. In the aftermath of a cataclysmic event that devastated the planet, a group of survivors find refuge in a massive underground silo designed to protect them from the harsh and toxic surface. Within the confines of the silo, a strict social hierarchy is established, with each level serving a specific purpose and governed by its own set of rules.

The series follows the lives of key characters as they navigate the challenges of their confined existence, struggling with claustrophobia, limited resources, and the constant fear of the unknown outside. As tensions rise and secrets about the true nature of the silo begin to surface, the residents must confront difficult decisions that could shape the future of humanity.

With themes of survival, power, and human nature, "Silo" delves into the complexities of human behavior when pushed to the brink of extinction. As the story unfolds, the characters' relationships, ambitions, and allegiances are put to the test, making "Silo" a thrilling and thought-provoking series that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.


The Expanse - The complete 6 seasons are available on Prime.

"The Expanse" is a science fiction television series based on a book series of the same name by James S. A. Corey (a pen name for authors Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck). The show originally aired on Syfy (now Amazon Prime Video) and has gained a dedicated fanbase for its compelling storytelling and well-developed characters.

Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, "The Expanse" unfolds in a time of political tension and conflict between three major factions: Earth, Mars, and the Belters (people who live in the asteroid belt and other outer planets' moons). The series begins with a mysterious and deadly incident that sets off a chain of events, ultimately leading to a conspiracy that threatens the stability of the entire system.

The story follows a diverse ensemble of characters, including James Holden, a principled former UN Navy officer; Naomi Nagata, a brilliant engineer and Belter; Alex Kamal, a skilled Martian pilot; and Amos Burton, a tough and enigmatic mechanic. As the plot unravels, they find themselves entangled in a web of political intrigue, interplanetary warfare, and a discovery that could change the course of humanity forever.

"The Expanse" is praised for its realistic depiction of space travel, political complexities, and ethical dilemmas, as well as its exploration of human nature and sociopolitical issues. The series has received critical acclaim for its compelling narrative, strong performances, and stunning visual effects, making it a must-watch for fans of science fiction and space opera genres.


Foundation - Season 2 currently streaming episodes weekly on AppleTV

"Foundation" is a science fiction television series based on the iconic book series of the same name written by Isaac Asimov. It is set in a distant future where humanity has spread across the galaxy and formed a vast interstellar empire known as the Galactic Empire.

The story revolves around Hari Seldon, a brilliant mathematician, and psychologist who has developed a revolutionary branch of mathematics called "psychohistory." Using this science, Seldon can predict the future of large populations, but only in probabilistic terms. He foresees the inevitable fall of the Galactic Empire, which will result in a dark age lasting 30,000 years before a new empire arises.

In response to this grim prediction, Seldon creates a plan to preserve knowledge and shorten the ensuing dark age to a mere 1,000 years. He establishes two foundations at opposite ends of the galaxy – the First Foundation, a scientific and technological hub, and the Second Foundation, a secretive group focused on mental abilities like telepathy.

The series follows the journey of individuals across different generations who play pivotal roles in fulfilling Seldon's plan. Political intrigue, power struggles, and philosophical dilemmas are central themes as the First Foundation must navigate the challenges of maintaining and expanding knowledge while facing external and internal threats.

As the series progresses, it explores the complexities of human nature, the potential of mathematical predictions, and the clash between individual ambition and the greater good. The characters grapple with questions of destiny, free will, and the true nature of the future.

"Foundation" offers a rich and immersive experience, filled with epic scope, breathtaking visuals, and profound storytelling. It delves into the grand themes of human civilization, survival, and the eternal struggle to shape the destiny of the galaxy itself.


The 100 - The complete 7 seasons are available on Netflix.

"The 100" is a post-apocalyptic science fiction TV series that originally aired from 2014 to 2020. The story is based on the book series of the same name by Kass Morgan. Set 97 years after a nuclear apocalypse that devastated Earth, the show follows a group of 100 juvenile delinquents who are sent back to Earth from a massive space station called the Ark. The Ark is humanity's last surviving habitat, and it's running out of resources, making the risky mission necessary to determine if Earth is habitable again.

Upon their return, the 100 encounter a harsh and dangerous world filled with radiation, mutated animals, and hostile groups of survivors. They must navigate through the complexities of their new environment while forming alliances and facing internal conflicts. As the series progresses, the young characters evolve into leaders and make difficult decisions to survive and thrive in this brutal and unpredictable world.

Throughout its run, "The 100" explores themes of survival, morality, leadership, and the consequences of human actions on the environment and society. It blends elements of science fiction, drama, action, and politics, captivating viewers with its engaging storyline and complex character developments.


The Peripheral - Season 1 Available on Prime

"The Peripheral" is a science fiction TV series based on the novel of the same name by William Gibson. Set in the near future, the show follows two interconnected storylines that unfold in different timelines.

In one timeline, centered around a rural town in the United States, Flynne Fisher, a woman working as a gamer, stumbles upon a mysterious virtual reality simulation that appears to depict a realistic future version of her town. As she investigates this surreal experience, she becomes entangled in a high-stakes conspiracy with far-reaching implications.

In the other timeline, set further in the future, society is vastly different, shaped by advanced technology and artificial intelligence. A group of powerful individuals in this dystopian future seeks to manipulate events in Flynne's timeline, leading to a complex and thrilling narrative filled with intrigue, action, and mind-bending twists.

The show explores themes of technology, power, surveillance, and the consequences of actions across different timelines. With its blend of cutting-edge sci-fi concepts and compelling character-driven storytelling, "The Peripheral" offers viewers an immersive and thought-provoking viewing experience.