Earth Abides

Thoroughly enjoyed this series. I enjoy the apocalypse genre anyway, but this one felt different. It was more about the survivors flourishing not just surviving. They encountered challenges along the way, but due to the time jumps, they were not focused on for long. The final episode was excellent.

The Earth Abides is a breath of fresh air in a landscape dominated by action-packed, high-stakes drama. This series stands out for its quiet yet profound exploration of humanity and the delicate interplay between people and the natural world. Unlike so many modern shows, where explosions and end-of-the-world threats dominate the narrative, The Earth Abides offers something much more intimate and reflective. The story follows Ish, a scientist whose journey from analytical observer to someone who truly understands the essence of life is both moving and relatable. The series beautifully illustrates that the purpose of life isn't found in grandiose quests or defeating a "big bad," but in the act of living itself. Ish’s transformation is slow and subtle, mirroring the natural rhythms of life, and the show invites viewers to walk alongside him rather than rush toward a climactic resolution. What makes The Earth Abides truly exceptional is its ability to immerse you in its world. It’s not about saving humanity or fighting zombies (thankfully). Instead, it’s about meeting characters who feel real, sharing their triumphs and struggles, and experiencing the joy of simply existing. The relationships formed and the quiet moments shared leave a lasting impression, and you’ll find yourself rooting for the survival of not just humanity, but its connection to nature and itself. If you’re craving something different—something more contemplative and heartfelt—this series is for you. The Earth Abides is a reminder of what we lose in our fast-paced, modern culture and what we stand to gain by slowing down and truly living. I only wish more shows embraced storytelling like this—where the people and their lives are the story.

This is a series that I would normally like. Dystopian is my go-to genre. And so far this one is done pretty well. The actors are good. Even though the dialogue can be a bit too clever at times.

I remember reading this a long time ago and commenting how it was a very basic postapocalyptic story with some solid science. No zombies or mumbo-jumbo, just straight up survival. This captures that feel okay, but there's no real risks taken. Any challenges are met and bested in one, maybe two episodes. I did like the passage of time, but sometimes the looks did not jibe with the time (e.g., Alexander Ludwig's hair would go from long to short pretty quickly and some characters didn't age at all). Casting was mysterious too. Not sure what they were going for. I didn't hate it, per se, but some of the subplots never really materialized and some of what should have been big moments for the show, lead nowhere. We really didn't get enough time to get to know the characters, tbh. This could have been a multi-season show, but again, it's not adding anything new to the genre.

Of course, they turned it into a generic B grade drama. The original story was first and foremost through a scientific perspective. Ish was a man of science, he acutely observed the changes that were happening to the natural world, and himself through a scientific lens. He repeatedly noted how nature was restructuring after the absence of human civilization. There is none of that in this show. It is a plain old overblown emotional soap opera. The Walking Dead, but without the zombies. Such a missed opportunity and a disservice to the original story.

[SPOILER ALERT: This review contains spoilers.]

In a world without dentists people try to survive deadly plaque? Great summary proof read