By Ian Lockwood
Online Managing Editor
Netflix’s newest series, “Altered Carbon” takes a new approach to the genre of sci-fi through a cyberpunk dystopian environment.
“Altered Carbon” holds a well-rounded cast that perfectly express the intriguing and complicated storyline. The series submerges the viewer into a distraught and torn apart, dystopian version of the future through suspenseful and action-packed scenes.
The new Netflix original is an adaption of Richard K. Morgan’s 2002 hardboiled cyberpunk novel of the same name. The series was adapted by Laeta Kalogridis, and featured a team of star-studded directors such as Miguel Sapochnik, Nick Hurran, and Alex Graves.
“Altered Carbon” focuses on the story of Takeshi Kovacs (Joel Kinnaman), a rebel warrior who had been arrested and frozen on ice for over 250 years. Kovacs is brought out of his sleep to assist an aristocrat (James Purefoy), in exchange for his freedom. The story follows Kovacs through his investigation, and as he unexpectedly falls in between a battle over the use of technology.
In a time where the cyberpunk dystopian medium continues to grow stale, “Altered Carbon” excels in having a unique voice in the genre. The show communicates an assortment of complex subjects that relate today’s problems in a futuristic setting, but in a sense that makes the show enjoyable to watch.
Not only does the show boast a compelling plot, but also features well-developed characters. The growth of each character is centered around how technology affects them. The effect of technology on each character helps build an emotional connection with the viewer.
Although the original story of the show was developed over 15 years ago, the philosophical debates in the show are still relevant today. The plethora of characters featured throughout the show, simultaneously face challenges over whether technology can benefit their lives. These issues provide an explanation to the conflict at hand, giving meaning to actions of both the protagonist and antagonist throughout the story.
Additionally, the psychedelic visuals and audio effects throughout the show further communicate the state of the society in the story. The use of uncanny songs and visuals in crucial parts of the story, highlight the moral dilemmas that characters are facing.
The complicated but highly intriguing storyline of “Altered Carbon” creates a new line of storytelling in the sci-fi genre. The assortment of morally-challenged characters become the building blocks of a unique story that challenges the use of technology and how it can affect everyday life.
Netflix’s newest original, “Altered Carbon” was released on February 2 and is available for streaming on netflix.com.
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