Foundation

This show is poorly written. 2/10

Title: Foundation - Apple TV+ Delivers a Galactic Triumph Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Foundation, Apple TV+'s adaptation of Isaac Asimov's classic series, is a tour de force in the sci-fi genre. Visually stunning and intellectually riveting, the series expertly captures the grandiosity of Asimov's universe. The meticulous attention to detail in set design and visual effects creates a breathtaking backdrop for a narrative that seamlessly blends intricate political intrigue with futuristic technology. The cast, led by standout performances from Jared Harris and Lee Pace, breathes life into complex characters whose evolution adds emotional depth to the overarching plot. Foundation explores profound themes with intelligence and accessibility, inviting both seasoned fans and newcomers to ponder the consequences of manipulating societies on a galactic scale. The series strikes a perfect balance between thoughtful storytelling and cinematic spectacle. In conclusion, Foundation is a triumph that not only honors Asimov's legacy but propels the series into a new era of excellence. With its stellar cast, breathtaking visuals, and thought-provoking themes, Foundation is a must-watch for those seeking an unforgettable journey into the unknown.

Managing to put a series of Books into a series is no easy task especially when it covers 1000 years. It isn't a series for everyone when you consider this, and that Isaac Asimov isn't just an advanced sci-fi writer but also a visionary almost one century before us. It is a case of love or hate especially when it involves two types of media, a filmed streaming series (with no easy task at hand) and a series of written books (with more two sequels and two prequels in a total of 7 books). Do not attach to most of the characters as many of them obviously won't live the 1000+ span of years of the saga of the original trilogy. The books are just magical, complex and transcending - if you like the series go read them. There are many differences of course but to go into full fidelity runs into that case of a "book that is impossible to make a film". The actors are top notch into their roles and the budget that Apple spent on this one is comparable to a big budget movie (around 70M a episode), with effects on CGI and sound that should be viewed in IMAX. If you love true sci-fi do yourself a favor and go watch it: my score is 8,7 out of 10,0 / A.

skuNk_citYAug 2025

1.0

The writing has devolved into an intentionally formulaic and pandering Disney Star Wars spin-off. I thought it started with potential and got hooked on the palace intrigue and Demerzel's story. I am somewhat bitter because I did like the show and gave it a chance. Oh well.

Very disappointed in this series. I know the books well, having read them multiple times, and I also know that no movie adaptaion can ever capture all the details and nuances of the original sories. I did not expect that, but neither did I expect to be insulted by ridiculous changes that do not enhance anything. After a decent start, this series has quickly devolved into garbage. It had possibilities in the beginning, seeming to deal fairly well with the actual story of the Foundation, but wasted tons and tons of time on some ridiculous ideas that were not at all in the original (such as cloned emperors). They pull in specific characters from the books, but stupidly feel some sort of woke need to cange many of them to either women, or more disgustingly, insert the currently popular in-your-face homosexuality that some recent law seems to require in EVERY new program. This is disgusting not because of the content, but that it was absolutely NOT a part of the original books, so the only point is for some dimmwitted idiot to satisfy their need to make an unwanted socio-political statement! By the time the series introduces the Traders, the entire concept of how the Foundation evolved and devoloped ways to deal with their neighboring planets has been totally missed or ignored. With such a serious break in the story line, there seems to be little point in even continuing to watch.

"Every translation is a treason," and adapting books to the screen — small or large — is a form of translation. The Foundation saga is one of the most ambitious works in science fiction. Beyond the original trilogy (later expanded to five books), Asimov used it to connect many of the stories and ideas he had developed over decades. The timeline spans centuries, the story unfolds across numerous worlds, and the cast of characters is constantly changing. Adapting such a masterpiece into a television series is a tremendous challenge, and to me, the result is wonderful. If you are a fan of Asimov expecting a scene-by-scene recreation of what you read, you may be disappointed, perhaps even feel betrayed. However, if you accept that every adaptation requires creative liberties, or if you have never read Asimov at all (which I believe you should remedy), this series is a must-watch. The cast is excellent, the direction is consistent, the sets are beautiful, and the CGI is of such quality that you stop noticing it once you're immersed in the story. Bringing figures such as Hari Seldon (Jared Harris), the Emperor (Lee Pace, Terrence Mann, Cassian Bilton), and Demerzel (Laura Birn) to life required exceptional casting, and the series succeeds admirably. The writers occasionally twist or expand Asimov's original ideas, but that is the privilege and the challenge of every new generation of storytellers. A living language evolves without losing its identity, and I see this adaptation in the same way. Asimov's universe is not a dead language frozen in time; it remains alive, changing its form while preserving its essence. Summary: 80%. Recommended. Currently watching it for the third time.