Foundation S01E01 Review: A Slow But Intriguing Start To The Series

Release date: September 24, 2021
Running time: 103 minutes

Based on the award-winning novels by Isaac Asimov, “Foundation” chronicles a band of exiles on their monumental journey to save humanity and rebuild civilization amid the fall of the Galactic Empire.

Foundation feels like an interesting mix of medieval Europe mixed with a scifi space opera.  The Galactic Empire has territories and a ruling group, and is stitched together by loose alliances and ruthless efficiency.  This leads to a unique and classic feeling show despite the extreme technology on display in the series.  The first episode introduces us to the whole concept of the series and the plight.  I really liked how it slowly introduced the concepts of this universe to you; leaving plenty of mystery as you experience this place.  For example, a major decision that a main character did was not explained until about 3/4 of the way through the episode.  And even the reason that the main character is there does not become apparent until later in the episode. 

And what makes this such an interesting episode is both the environment and the characters.  You meet so many interesting and strange people during this first look at the Galactic Empire, and I am interested to see where this goes.  The effects are top notch for the most part; there were some minor issues with some of the CG but overall the world of Foundation comes to life to let you experience this imaginative and impactful setting.  Episode 1 teases just enough to let you know that there is so much more going on, and makes you excited to see what will be coming in the future.  I'm excited to see where this goes and am just along for the ride.

Foundation S01E01 is an impactful introduction to the Asimov's universe, and has interesting characters, great effects, and a mysterious world that makes it a mathematical impossibility to not keep watching.

Watch it.

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Foundation is available to stream on Apple TV+ with Season 1 Episode 1 "The Emperor's Peace" available on September 24, 2021.