Beacon 23: A Sci-Fi Gem for the Streaming Generation
Huge advances in CGI have, in theory, unlocked boundless creative freedom for sci-fi and fantasy shows – if a writer can imagine it, you can get it on screen. But, in practice, that potential has been tempered by late stage capitalism and its propensity to devalue everything that doesn’t throw a 600% return up to a bunch of vampiric ghouls who lack the basic human capacity for joy.
Now, I know that might sound like a dystopian video game storyline, but it’s a reality we live in. The genre TV boom of the nineties, encompassing everything from Star Trek to The X Files, is very much a thing of the past. The current economics of television rarely (never) account for large ensembles, 26 episodes per season, and an art budget that can stretch to more than one set. But fear not, my fellow gamers, because Hugh Howey’s acclaimed short-story collection Beacon 23 is here to save the day with its MGM+ adaptation.
A Space Lighthouse and its Keepers
Beacon 23 is a captivating sci-fi series that revolves around a space lighthouse and its various keepers. These keepers, whose tenures span a couple of centuries, are intertwined in a number of ways. But let’s focus on the interplay between street-smart corporate saboteur Aster, played by the incredible Lena Headey (yes, Cersei Lannister herself), and troubled soldier Halan, portrayed with deft versatility by Stephan James from the hit show Homecoming.
Now, let me tell you, their motivations and reasons for being on Beacon 23 in the first place are all wrapped up in this show’s neatly unravelling mystery box. And boy, does it unravel at a healthy pace! Each of the first three 50-minute episodes takes you on a rollercoaster ride, changing your impression of Aster and Halan and revealing how they fit into this mesmerizing universe.
A Visionary Show on a Streaming Budget
For a science fiction show set entirely in a single location, Beacon 23 conjures an intriguing vision of an interstellar future for mankind. Picture several circular decks wrapped around a spiral staircase, like one of those converted water tower Airbnbs, but with loads of blinky control panels and a sinister AI. And the best part? You won’t find heavy exposition dumps here. The wider universe and its state are hinted at through natural dialogue, which is refreshing. Plus, we get to see different perspectives when visiting strangers enter the picture, usually with complex but ultimately nefarious goals.
Now, you might be wondering, what makes Beacon 23 so special? Well, it leverages the thing that often makes those fan-favorite “bottle episodes” in shows like Star Trek so memorable: the performances. It’s like a sci-fi version of Waiting for Godot, with a touch of Bottom, the Rik Mayall show about nob gags and farting. Yeah, you heard me right!
The Craft of Acting
Science fiction shows don’t always offer meaty roles for actors. That’s not to say there’s bad acting; quite the opposite. But there’s something about theater acting that truly showcases the creativity and skill of performers. Think about it: a good actor can captivate a full house with just a spotlight and an empty chair. It’s a whole different level of artistry compared to the “stand here, say this, do it again” routine of TV and film.
Well, my fellow gamers, Beacon 23 bridges the gap between TV and theater. It relies heavily on the craft of acting to keep you gripped through its drip-fed mystery and world-building. Lena Headey and Stephan James deliver outstanding performances as Aster and Halan, painting a complex dynamic of fundamental mistrust, tenderness in the face of adversity, and a frail alignment of interests that could crumble at any moment.
A Show in the Now
Beacon 23 is far from perfect, but it’s a smart new sci-fi show that reflects our current insecurities about artificial intelligence, dwindling resources, and the impact of colonization. It tackles these themes in a format necessitated by the current state of streaming television. And let me tell you, it’s a format that demands our attention.
So, my fellow gamers, if you’re up for a grand story, a humble toolkit, and the reincarnation of Cersei Lannister as a grungy Mancunian space lesbian, Beacon 23 is the show for you. Get ready to be immersed in a battle of wits against a super soldier and a petulant AI. Trust me, it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!
Image credits: William Morrow Paperbacks, MGM