Apple TV’s Foundation has turned a story once considered difficult to adapt into a long-running science-fiction series. Based on Isaac Asimov’s works, the show spans thousands of years while exploring political and psychological themes, and has reached three seasons.
The series follows psychohistorian Hari Seldon, played by Jared Harris, who predicts a disaster that will destroy civilization across the galaxy. He sets out to preserve knowledge and culture for those who come after, while the emperors of the Cleonic dynasty witness the decline of their empire.
Despite its sweeping premise, Foundation presents its ideas in a way that can engage viewers beyond fans of hard science fiction. The show combines questions about identity, morality and fate with the scale of a story that unfolds over generations.
The article contrasts that approach with Star Wars’ recent television output. Disney+ has released series including The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Andor and The Acolyte, with varying levels of success. The Mandalorian is described as the franchise’s most culturally resonant live-action series, in part because of the pairing of Din Djarin and Grogu. The characters are now being moved into a theatrical film, The Mandalorian and Grogu.
Many other Star Wars live-action shows have been limited series or ended after one season, leaving the franchise without an ongoing series, according to the article. It argues that the short-run format can make it harder for stories to build an audience over time, while multi-season shows such as Foundation have more room to develop their characters and ideas.
The piece suggests Star Wars could benefit from committing to longer television narratives instead of quickly shifting successful stories to the big screen. Foundation is currently streaming on Apple TV+; its first season premiered on September 23, 2021.
Sources: Comic Book Resources.