What type of impact does space travel have on the human body and mind? This question forms the backdrop of Apple TV’s latest series, Constellation. Drawing inspiration from the physiological and psychological effects experienced by real-life astronauts, the series delves into themes of isolation, trauma, and the fragile nature of memory.
Constellation follows astronaut Jo Ericsson, played by Noomi Rapace (Prometheus, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), upon her return from space. Right from the opening sequence, set against the snowy backdrop of northern Sweden, the show sets a tone that’s both eerie and chilling. Creator Peter Harness masterfully intertwines this gripping narrative with frequent flash-forwards, teasing a climactic moment while slowly unraveling the story’s core.
The series wastes no time plunging viewers into the disorienting aftermath of a catastrophic incident that puts Jo and her fellow astronauts’ lives in jeopardy aboard the International Space Station. Upon Jo’s return to Earth, everything feels off-kilter to her—her daughter (Davina and Rosie Coleman) doesn’t speak Swedish, her husband (James D’Arcy) is acting hostile towards her, and even the color of their car seems wrong. As Jo struggles to piece together the fragments of her shattered life, she confronts a maze of perplexing clues and unsettling discoveries that blur the lines between truth and illusion. The series plays with the viewer’s sense of reality, leaving us constantly questioning what’s real and what’s potentially just in Jo’s head.
At its core, Constellation delves deep into the psychological toll of space travel, drawing inspiration from the strange phenomena experienced by real-life astronauts, ranging from physical transformations to hallucinations. Noomi Rapace shines as astronaut Jo Ericsson, whose harrowing experiences aboard the International Space Station catapult her into a world where the boundaries of perception blur and the fabric of reality frays.
Constellation is truly an exploration of the human condition and the bonds that connect us across space and time, weaving together elements of mystery, science fiction, and psychological horror. It’s not only visually stunning, but the show’s haunting score heightens the tension and enhances the otherworldly atmosphere of the series.
Rapace puts her versatility on full display—from powerful scenes of introspection to the confusion and desperation her character experiences. Alongside her, the talented Coleman twins shine as Jo’s daughter, Alice, adding layers of emotional depth to their fraught mother-daughter relationship. Better Call Saul’s Jonathan Banks is a revelation in his dual roles as the enigmatic Henry Caldera and his troubled counterpart, Bud Caldera, injecting the series with a sense of ominous intrigue that keeps us on the edge of our seats.
Peter Harness crafts an emotionally resonant narrative that challenges viewers to question the nature of reality itself. Time and time again I found myself asking: “What the heck is going on!?” as the series examined reality vs fiction—a theme we’ve seen in everything from Interstellar to Black Mirror.
Constellation is not without its challenges. The deliberate pacing and flash-forwards, backwards, and sideways may test the patience of some viewers, and the finale certainly leaves us with unanswered questions. But while the series may not offer tidy resolutions or easy answers, its refusal to adhere to conventional storytelling is part of its allure. It dares viewers to embrace the unknown. To confront the darkness within and without.
More than just a sci-fi thriller, Constellation is a journey of self-discovery, a meditation on the human condition, and a testament to the boundless possibilities of the universe. With its stellar performances, haunting score, and intricate narrative, the series is a mesmerizing watch that excels in its quiet horror. So strap in, dear viewers, and prepare to question everything.
Constellation is currently streaming on Apple TV+ with new episodes debuting every Wednesday.
More than just a sci-fi thriller, Constellation is a journey of self-discovery, a meditation on the human condition, and a testament to the boundless possibilities of the universe. With its stellar performances, haunting score, and intricate narrative, the series is a mesmerizing watch that excels in its quiet horror. So strap in, dear viewers, and prepare to question everything.
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GVN Rating 7.5
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User Ratings (1 Votes)
10
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