Watch The Expanse

The Expanse is a science-fiction television series based on the novels by James S. A. Corey. The show premiered on Syfy in 2015 and ran for five seasons, ending in 2022. The series is set in the future, where humans have colonized the solar system, and tensions between Earth, Mars, and the asteroid belt are at an all-time high.

The story follows a group of individuals who find themselves caught up in a vast conspiracy that threatens to tear the entire system apart. James Holden (Steven Strait) is a former Navy officer who is drawn into the conflict after a mysterious ship he is investigating is destroyed. He and his crew soon discover that there is more at play than meets the eye, and they become embroiled in a battle for the fate of humanity.

One of the most compelling aspects of The Expanse is its world-building. The show takes place across multiple locations, each with their unique culture, politics, and economic situation. Earth is a wealthy and influential planet whose leaders are determined to maintain their power. Mars has declared its independence and focuses on building a powerful military force. Meanwhile, the Belt is a collection of asteroid colonies that have been exploited by the other two powers for their resources.

Throughout the series, we see how these factions interact with each other and how their actions affect the lives of everyday people. We follow the Rocinante, Holden's ship, as it travels through the solar system, encountering political intrigue, skirmishes between factions, and dangerous alien technology.

The characters in The Expanse are complex and multi-dimensional. There are no clear-cut heroes or villains, and each character's actions are influenced by their past experiences and the world around them. There's Naomi Nagata (Dominique Tipper), a former Belter who becomes Holden's trusted crew member; Alex Kamal (Cas Anvar), a pilot from Mars who abandoned his family to chase his dreams; and Amos Burton (Wes Chatham), a tough-talking engineer with a dark past.

Throughout the series, we see how these characters develop and grow, facing challenges that test their beliefs and their loyalty to each other. The Expanse is not afraid to tackle tough issues, including politics, racism, and class struggle, adding depth and nuance to the plot.

The show also excels in its visual effects and world design. The Expanse's portrayal of space travel feels authentic, with spaceships that obey the laws of physics and environments that reflect the harsh realities of life in space. The Belters' modified bodies, designed to withstand the effects of zero gravity and low air pressure, are particularly striking.

Overall, The Expanse is a gripping sci-fi drama that explores themes of politics, power, and the human condition. Its compelling story, complex characters, and stunning visuals make it a must-see for fans of the genre. While the show has concluded, it remains a favorite among fans and a testament to the power of excellent storytelling.

The Expanse is a series that is currently running and has 6 seasons (62 episodes). The series first aired on December 14, 2015.