3 Body Problem: What went right, wrong and what to expect for season 2!

Created by the former showrunners of "Game of Thrones," "3 Body Problem" is a science fiction series that follows a group of scientists facing various challenges in their first contact with an alien race.

"3 Body Problem" has many positive points that make it stand out among so many mediocre productions.

Suspense and Philosophical Questions

The series does an excellent job of keeping our attention, especially in the second half, when the most impactful events occur.

By dealing with the first contact with an alien race, the series arouses our natural curiosity. What is happening? Will they respond? Who are they? Unexplained events happen throughout the series, leaving both the protagonists and us, the viewers, without immediate answers, encouraging theories to understand what is happening.

This initial curiosity is replaced by deep philosophical questions. What will we do when we encounter another civilization? How would our coexistence be? Should we welcome them with open arms? What will the future of our descendants be? The series engages the viewer in reflections along with the protagonists, creating a deep immersion and solidifying these points as some of the strongest in the narrative.

The Science

Although I am not the most qualified person to explain or understand science, I consider this one of the most notable aspects of the production.

"3 Body Problem" addresses various complex science concepts, especially physics. It explores themes such as acceleration, quantum physics, gravity, radiation, and the feasibility of certain experiments. For the average viewer, these themes may seem like mere fiction, but the series manages to present them in a way that does not alienate the audience.

On the contrary, these elements increase the focus and depth of the narrative, often being used as strengths of the story. The ability to use complex scientific terms without complicating the understanding of the plot is a remarkable highlight.

Every series has its problems, and unfortunately, "3 Body Problem" is no exception to this rule. The show has some details that can end up disrupting the immersion of those watching.

The Constant Plot Shifts

The series begins with an intriguing focus on suspense, exploring deep questions about the universe, the existence of God, and if science is actually correct. Initially, it appears that the series will focus on unraveling these cosmic mysteries.

However, after three episodes, the narrative shifts abruptly, turning into a kind of puzzle game where the characters are trying to save a random civilization. At this point, the focus on suspense diminishes significantly, and the characters (most of them) seem to see no risk in what is happening.

In the end, the suspense is completely set aside, and the series becomes a question of "how can we defeat these aliens?" This constant plot shifting can confuse viewers and dilute the initial tension, harming the continuity and cohesion of the story.

The Inconsistency of the San-ti’s Powers

The powers demonstrated by the San-ti present a serious consistency problem. At various points in the series, they are capable of performing feats completely beyond our reality, such as hacking all the computers on Earth simultaneously with no effort. However, in other situations, the San-ti allow the protagonists to act freely, which seems contradictory.

A society that possesses such advanced abilities should be able to crush all our efforts easily, treating us like mere insects. However, we are still allowed to resist. The series tries to explain this inconsistency by saying that we are not capable of understanding the will and plans of the San-ti since they are much more intelligent and advanced than us. However, this justification ends up sounding like an excuse to cover up plot holes.

These inconsistencies can frustrate viewers who expect a coherent internal logic within the universe of the series. The lack of clarity about the San-ti's capabilities and limitations can undermine the immersion and credibility of the story.

For the next season, we hope to see more in-depth character development and a continuation of the philosophical and scientific questions that made the first season so captivating, especially how Saul Durand will handle being a "Wall Facer". Will he accept this burden or continue to deny what the San-Ti believe to be his destiny?

We also want the series to maintain the balance between scientific complexity and accessibility, continuing to stimulate our curiosity and reflections. Additionally, it would be interesting to address more new themes relevant to the books, such as the Dark Forest Theory, which explains the lack of intergalactic communication due to the universe being a dangerous place filled with predatory civilizations were being discovered means death.

More interactions with the San-Ti would also be interesting for the show's narrative, as getting to know the culture of these aliens better could cover the plot hole of why they are so permissive with our resistance.

Still on the topic of resistance, we would like to see the evolution of the Earth's defense system, its future plans, and how humanity will unite (or not) to combat this threat. We have already seen hints of this in the first season, with some people not caring about the future invasion, others worshiping the invaders as gods, and some questioning the decisions of the United Nations, such as the plan for the "Wall Facers" to have unlimited power, which is seen in a news article on Thomas Wade's tablet just before the season ends.

In summary, "3 Body Problem" is a series that combines suspense, philosophical questions, and science in a way that few productions manage. We are looking forward to seeing what the second season has in store!