Is Apple TV+'s 'Dark Matter' better sci-fi series than Netflix's 'Dark'?
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS: When a new film or series gets released, comparisons with their contemporaries are bound to happen.
This holds true for Apple TV+'s latest sci-fi show 'Dark Matter', which has garnered mixed reviews despite attracting a huge viewership since its debut on May 8, 2024.
The title 'Dark Matter' is reminiscent of Netflix's 2017-2020 series 'Dark', and both shows belong to the same genre. Yet, they are quite different from each other, owing to the variation in the main plot, characters, and the underlying theme.
What is Netflix's 'Dark' all about?
'Dark' is set in the fictional town of Winden in Germany and follows the adventures of dysfunctional characters who pursue the truth in the aftermath of a child's disappearance.
With the mysterious disappearance cases on the rise, a sinister time travel conspiracy comes to light, unraveling the connection between four estranged families that span several generations.
'Dark' made quite a buzz among fans for its mind-bending sci-fi thrill and crime plot throughout the three seasons.
It is considered one of the best sci-fi series of all time and has amassed an impressive average Rotten Tomatoes score of 95% across all seasons.
Should you watch or skip Apple TV+'s 'Dark Matter'?
'Dark Matter' is created by Blake Crouch based on his 2016 novel of the same name. It follows the multiverse adventures of Jason Dessen (played by Joel Edgerton) after an alternate version of him swaps places with him.
'Dark Matter' has received an 81% score on Rotten Tomatoes, which is relatively less than Netflix's 'Dark'. Yet, it doesn't make 'Dark Matter' a bad show.
The series is not just an intriguing sci-fi adventure; it is also rich with emotional depth, exploring themes of love, regret, longing, and desperation.
'Dark Matter' is a good show in its own capacity, attempting viewers to engage with frequent twists and cliffhangers in each episode.
Since 'Dark' is a complex and heavy show that can be difficult for many fans to decode, 'Dark Matter' stands out as a relatively easier watch, remaining straightforward until Episode 8.
However, for those seeking the best sci-fi series, 'Dark Matter' doesn't top the list. Shows like 'Dark', 'Severance', and '3 Body Problem' are more compelling and come highly recommended.
How to stream 'Dark Matter'?
'Dark Matter' features Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Connelly, Alice Braga and Jimmi Simpson. It made its premiere on Apple TV+ on May 8, 2024, with two episodes.
Currently, eight episodes of the show are available to stream exclusively on Apple TV+ while the finale episode will air on June 26, 2024.
'Dark Matter' trailer