I'm happy to report that the writing improves as you progress through season 1. In particular, episode 3 is where it really takes gets its footing. And the finale for the first season is pretty phenomenal. Excellent performances by Anthony Hopkins, Ed Harris, and pretty much the entire cast. I was concerned at first when I saw Abrams' name attached to this that it might end up being a bit 'fluffy'. However, it stayed on an even keel and the maintained a thoughtful tone throughout. And when dealing with existential material in the same vein as The Creation of the Humanoids (1962) and Blade Runner (1982), it's imperative to present material in such a way that the viewer can remain thoughtful and make connections.
When watching these episodes, many ideas come to mind, including simulation theory, consciousness, the evolution of (and potential replacement of humanity by) A.I., free will vs. control, perception as it relates to memories, personality as a function of traumatic life events, sentience, morality, the value of compassion, reincarnation, the human condition, and much more.
From a technical standpoint, the series is scored, shot, lit, and edited well. Nice use of set design and lighting. Special (practical) and visual effects are very nicely done. Most surprising to me is that it actually retains a bit of the feel of the Westworld (1973) and Future World (1976) movies. Usually, modern takes on 1970s material end up being almost indistinguishable from their source material. However, some of the 'feel' of the original is here. In particular, the intrigue and mystery of the originals is retained.
I've seen most of the first season of Altered Carbon. And, in my humble opinion, I think Westworld does a better job of tackling similar themes.
As a final comment, I'll say that I certainly appreciated the little details -- like the various modern-era songs on the player piano (e.g. "Black Hole Sun" by Soundgarden and "A Forest" by The Cure.
This is a show worth watching.
When watching these episodes, many ideas come to mind, including simulation theory, consciousness, the evolution of (and potential replacement of humanity by) A.I., free will vs. control, perception as it relates to memories, personality as a function of traumatic life events, sentience, morality, the value of compassion, reincarnation, the human condition, and much more.
From a technical standpoint, the series is scored, shot, lit, and edited well. Nice use of set design and lighting. Special (practical) and visual effects are very nicely done. Most surprising to me is that it actually retains a bit of the feel of the Westworld (1973) and Future World (1976) movies. Usually, modern takes on 1970s material end up being almost indistinguishable from their source material. However, some of the 'feel' of the original is here. In particular, the intrigue and mystery of the originals is retained.
I've seen most of the first season of Altered Carbon. And, in my humble opinion, I think Westworld does a better job of tackling similar themes.
As a final comment, I'll say that I certainly appreciated the little details -- like the various modern-era songs on the player piano (e.g. "Black Hole Sun" by Soundgarden and "A Forest" by The Cure.
This is a show worth watching.