"Mars" is an interesting blend of drama and documentary, featuring commentary by many who currently work on the SpaceX project. A cynic might write the whole series off as a commercial for Elon Musk, but it's a compelling story. In fact, linking the fiction to fundamental facts about human existence and possible extinction gave me a feeling of dread.
That is not to say that all viewers will feel the same way. Some will probably feel exhilaration about the adventure to Mars. But the entire project is explained as necessary to eventual human survival.
In the first two episodes, the voyagers are exposed to the hazards and exertions of take-off, space travel (209 days) and landing. They encounter exigencies and failures. The acting is fine, but I haven't felt that much was demanded of them so far. Especially since they wear helmets much of the time.
"The Martian" was an enjoyable drama about the journey to Mars and its colonization. "Mars" is a similar story, but it's augmented by the technical comments of scientists, Musk, and his team. Anyone who wants to understand the real-world considerations of planning such a mission will probably appreciate these interjections. Others may find them distracting.
The show raises a good question: Is there a sort of "Peter Principle" of Exploration at work, where man will always try to explore one step beyond what he is capable of?
That is not to say that all viewers will feel the same way. Some will probably feel exhilaration about the adventure to Mars. But the entire project is explained as necessary to eventual human survival.
In the first two episodes, the voyagers are exposed to the hazards and exertions of take-off, space travel (209 days) and landing. They encounter exigencies and failures. The acting is fine, but I haven't felt that much was demanded of them so far. Especially since they wear helmets much of the time.
"The Martian" was an enjoyable drama about the journey to Mars and its colonization. "Mars" is a similar story, but it's augmented by the technical comments of scientists, Musk, and his team. Anyone who wants to understand the real-world considerations of planning such a mission will probably appreciate these interjections. Others may find them distracting.
The show raises a good question: Is there a sort of "Peter Principle" of Exploration at work, where man will always try to explore one step beyond what he is capable of?