In the eerie realms of Apple TV+’s latest psychological thriller, “Constellation,” a character ominously remarks, “There’s something about space that is wrong.” And you know what? Despite its seemingly simplistic nature, that character’s observation strikes a chord of truth. Indeed, there is an unsettling aura surrounding space, both within the narrative of this show and in the broader context of cosmic mysteries. Laugh if you must, but the anomalies of space are undeniably palpable these days.
At its core, “Constellation,” penned by Peter Harness, delves into a myriad of themes over its eight gripping episodes, with the first three premiering on Feb. 21. It unfolds initially as a harrowing tale of space gone awry. We’re thrust into a chilling scenario within a desolate cabin before catapulting five weeks back in time to a frigid expanse: space itself. Here, a team of five aboard the International Space Station finds their routine shattered by a mysterious collision, resulting in the tragic demise of Commander Paul Lancaster (portrayed by William Catlett). As the aftermath unfolds, Swedish astronaut Jo Ericsson (played by Noomi Rapace) embarks on a perplexing spacewalk to assess the damage, only to stumble upon an inexplicable anomaly: a Soviet-era cosmonaut suit adorning a deceased body. From there, the narrative plunges deeper into the abyss of uncertainty as Jo grapples with surreal occurrences aboard the ISS.
Upon her return to Earth, Jo’s homecoming is anything but serene. Haunted by the same enigmatic phenomena experienced in space, she navigates a disconcerting reality where perceptions blur, and the line between truth and illusion becomes increasingly elusive. As Jo confronts authorities dismissing her concerns as astronaut burnout or psychosis, she unearths a web of intrigue tied to the experimental apparatus her late colleague was studying.
As the series progresses, “Constellation” reveals its ambitious scope, seamlessly blending elements of space adventure, familial dynamics, and conspiracy thriller. The action sequences, both in space and on terra firma, pulsate with intensity, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. Amidst the chaos, the bond between Jo and her daughter Alice (portrayed by Rosie and Davina Coleman) emerges as a poignant centerpiece, grounding the narrative amidst its whirlwind of intrigue.
Yet, for all its merits, “Constellation” occasionally stumbles in its execution. The relentless pursuit of disorientation, while initially effective, risks alienating viewers, leaving them adrift in a sea of uncertainty without a lifeline of coherence. The latter half of the season, while offering clarity, struggles to fully capitalize on the potential of its characters, resulting in repetitive arcs and missed opportunities for character development.
Nevertheless, standout performances, particularly from Jonathan Banks as Henry Caldera, inject vitality into the narrative, infusing it with depth and intrigue. As “Constellation” hints at a broader conspiracy waiting to be unraveled, it teeters on the precipice of greatness, poised to soar to greater heights if granted the opportunity of a second season. Though its journey may be fraught with turbulence, the promise of unraveling cosmic mysteries beckons, ensuring that “Constellation” remains a compelling odyssey into the unknown.
