ark Matter, the new sci-fi series on Apple TV+, skillfully captures some of the most profound questions we deal with: what if? This thought-provoking thriller, based on Blake Crouch’s acclaimed novel, offers more than just thrilling suspense and alternate realities; it brings a deeply human perspective to the complex ideas of choice, love and destiny.

From the opening moments of Dark Matter, Jason Dessen, played by Australian actor Joel Edgerton, embodies our collective curiosity about alternative paths and choices. The show delves into the human desire to learn where other paths might lead. It forces viewers to confront questions of identity and choice by placing Jason in a world where each decision he’s ever made branches into an alternative reality. This exploration resonated with me because we all have moments we wonder about—decisions we replay in our minds, paths we sometimes wish we’d taken. Dark Matter doesn’t just pose the question of what could have been; it immerses us in Jason’s desperate journey to reclaim the life he holds dear while wrestling with the seductive allure of roads not taken.

The theme is profoundly human. Each episode unfolds layers of Jason’s life, allowing viewers to reflect on their own lives, choices and what-if moments in a way few shows accomplish so viscerally. Watching Jason, we are reminded of the paths we once dreamed of and the lives we might be living if a single choice had gone differently.

At its core, Dark Matter is a story about love—the kind of love that transcends space, time and alternative realities. Jason’s journey through various alternative lives is fuelled by his deep connection to his wife, portrayed by Jennifer Connelly, and son. This makes his quest relatable and heartfelt. The series beautifully portrays love as Jason’s anchoring force and his guiding light, even when he’s lost in increasingly surreal experiences. Through him, we see love’s resilience and how it grounds us, even when one is faced with unimaginable challenges. Most importantly, the show manages to do this without this being unbearable or feeling excessive.

The series is a master class in tension building,creating a sense of momentum and urgency that leaves the audience guessing and eagerly anticipating each twist. As Jason navigates through increasingly unpredictable worlds, the show escalates not only in intensity but also in the complexity of its mysteries. It crafts a narrative labyrinth, where just as viewers think they have a grip on the plot, another unexpected turn throws everything into question.

Dark Matter doesn’t shy away from exploring the sacrifices, compromises and fierce dedication that love often requires. This series isn’t just about the thrill of seeing different versions of a life; it’s also about the lengths one will go to for those they love. The show manages to blend high-stakes sci-fi with an authentic exploration of love, making Jason’s journey all the more compelling and resonant. It’s rare for a sci-fi series to bring such depth to its characters’ relationships. Dark Matter does it beautifully, making every emotional beat feel both raw and real, the reason it stood out for me.

Dark Matter excels in its pacing and structure, consistently raising the stakes with each episode. The series is a master class in tension building, creating a sense of momentum and urgency that leaves the audience guessing and eagerly anticipating each twist. As Jason navigates through increasingly unpredictable worlds, the show escalates not only in intensity but also in the complexity of its mysteries. It crafts a narrative labyrinth, where just as viewers think they have a grip on the plot, another unexpected turn throws everything into question.

This constant escalation makes for a gripping viewing experience. Each reality Jason enters is more unpredictable and treacherous than the last, forcing him—and us as viewers—to stay alert. This unpredictability is part of what makes Dark Matter so engaging: you’re never entirely sure what’s coming next, but you’re eager to find out. The creators strike a delicate balance between mind-bending sci-fi elements and grounded, emotional storytelling, keeping the show riveting from start to finish.

Dark Matter is a powerful addition to Apple TV+’s lineup, blending high-concept sci-fi with emotional storytelling. Through its exploration of alternate realities, the show speaks to our own desires, fears and the relationships that anchor us. Its deft handling of suspense and its relentless pace ensure that viewers are not only entertained but also left with questions that linger long after the credits roll. For fans of smart, emotionally resonant sci-fi, Dark Matter is a journey worth taking.

The author writes about culture, art and identity. More of his work can be found on medium.com/ @uneebnasir