Apple TV+ Space Drama Rated 92% on Rotten Tomatoes Fails to Convince Me It’s Sci-Fi

Apple TV+’s For All Mankind has been positioned as a sci-fi series since its launch in 2019. However, despite my deep appreciation for the show and my passion for the sci-fi genre, it hasn’t convincingly embraced its classification. Although the conclusion of season 4 hinted at a stronger alignment with traditional sci-fi elements, I believe the series must achieve a significant milestone before it can be genuinely regarded as part of this genre.

The show’s overarching narrative, centered around space exploration, does evoke some of the most ambitious sci-fi productions to date. Yet, the limited instances of space travel represent one of the few sci-fi conventions within For All Mankind. It notably lacks other key sci-fi components like extraterrestrial beings, advanced weaponry, and cloning technology. Regardless, it remains one of the standout offerings on Apple TV+, though I still struggle to position it strictly within the sci-fi category. Nevertheless, this perception may evolve in the coming years.

A Future Leap: Bridging Towards Sci-Fi Credibility in For All Mankind

The Genre Fit: For All Mankind’s Strengths Beyond Sci-Fi

While For All Mankind is technically categorized as sci-fi, I contend it aligns much more closely with other genres. Primarily, it serves as an alternate history narrative, set against a backdrop that feels remarkably real. The transitions through time are crafted with care, making the gradual technological advancements resulting from an extended space race seem like an authentic glimpse into a plausible alternate reality, devoid of gimmicks. However, as the narrative progresses into the 2010s and beyond, I expect to reevaluate its classification as truly sci-fi.

Furthermore, I perceive For All Mankind as more of a political thriller rather than a conventional sci-fi series—though its setting occasionally drifts into space.

Incorporating a futuristic context is a significant trope in sci-fi. Therefore, my current stance may shift dramatically if and when the series pushes further into the future. While For All Mankind has already crafted several events within its alternative timeline, episodes that venture into the future would necessitate greater imaginative leaps in geopolitics and technology as humanity endeavors into the cosmos.

The Advantages of For All Mankind’s Genre-Blending Approach

Broadening Appeal: The Benefits of a Multi-Genre Approach

Celebrated by audiences and critics alike, For All Mankind’s distinctive storytelling sets it apart from conventional narratives, offering broader appeal across diverse viewer demographics. Its captivating premise attracts history enthusiasts, political aficionados, and even hardcore sci-fi fans. Had the show opted for a more rigid adherence to typical sci-fi tropes, it might have inadvertently alienated various audiences.

If For All Mankind had not been branded as a sci-fi production, there’s a chance I might not have given it a chance. My initial interest was piqued by its sci-fi label, which ultimately led me to appreciate its artistry.

While sci-fi is undeniably popular, certain viewers might be deterred by portrayals of starships exchanging laser fire set against the backdrop of a silent vacuum. Although I personally enjoy such elements, I recognize that they may not appeal universally. Conversely, some viewers might discover their love for space exploration only after being initially drawn in by the show’s non-sci-fi elements.

Projected Timeline: When Will For All Mankind Embrace the Future?

Aiming for Season 7: The Future of For All Mankind

Joel Kinnaman as Ed Baldwin in For All Mankind

The series’ creators have openly expressed aspirations for For All Mankind to extend through six seasons, with seven as the ultimate benchmark. Given that each time jump has spanned roughly a decade, viewers can start to approximate when the show’s fictional timeline will intersect with reality. As season 4 concluded with a leap to 2012, anticipation builds for season 5, and it’s likely that season 6 will venture into the 2020s. This trajectory suggests that by the time season 6 airs (should the series receive renewal), it may reflect our contemporary world in at least 2026 or later.

As a result, the gap between seasons 5 and 6 might only propel the story slightly into the future—close to the present day—meaning that any significant sci-fi elements may not emerge until season 7. It is at that point that For All Mankind could authentically transition into the 2030s, where it may fully adopt a traditional sci-fi narrative.

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