As much as I lovedWestworld, it’s not HBO’s best sci-fi TV series. That honor belongs to another masterpiece. It’s been three years now sinceWestworld’sending, and theTV series is still considered one of the most disappointing TV shows ever made, offering immense promise in its first season before taking a steep decline.
Regardless,Westworldhas its virtues.Even if the show’s narrative didn’t pan out after a masterpiece premiere season, it’s difficult to think of a sci-fi TV series with such an outstanding cast and impeccable production value. HBO brings quality to every series, and it’s no wonder that the network has produced many of thebest TV shows of all time.
The Leftovers Is A Philosophical Sci-Fi Masterpiece
The Leftovers Offers A Profound Approach To Its Themes Of Science & Faith
When considering HBO’s masterpiece shows, titles likeThe Sopranos,The Wire, andBand of Brothersare often listed. However,one of the most daring, profound TV shows they’ve ever made isThe Leftovers, which was consistently snubbed by awards shows and ignored by mass audiences despite being lauded by critics.
I’ve often comparedWestworldtoLostin terms of its ability to establish addictive, captivating mystery boxes that make it hard to turn off the TV.The Leftoverswas created by Damon Lindelof, one ofLost’sshowrunners, who has since developed shows like HBO’sWatchmenand the upcoming DCULanternsseries.
The Leftoversexplores philosophical themes about science and faith.
The Leftoversis set in a world where2% of the Earth’s population vanishes in an inexplicable event called the “Sudden Departure.“What ensues is a character-driven narrative set in the aftermath. As with many of Lindelof’s projects,The Leftoversexplores philosophical themes about science and faith.
Unlike Westworld, The Leftovers Is Perfect From Start To Finish
The Leftovers Continuously Improves
Damon Lindelof is one of the most outstanding sci-fi writers in the industry, with work on theAlienfranchise,Star Trek, and multiple DC projects. Nearly a decade after its final season,The Leftoversis still his magnum opus. UnlikeLost, which divided audiences over time,The Leftoversonly continued to improve.
If you’re still lingering on the show’s unfortunate cancellation,The Leftoversis a perfect follow-up series.
I’ve often heard the critique that the series starts slowly. While I personally disagree with that assessment, I recommend sticking with it, as it only improves.Season 2 has one of the most astounding TV episodes of the 21st century, and season 3 offers one of the most beautiful endings in television history.
Westworldcould have gone down as one of the greatest TV shows of all time if not for its notable decline in quality. If you’re still lingering on the show’s unfortunate cancellation,The Leftoversis a perfect follow-up series.
