Netflix's 3 Body Problem Review and Impressions

LifeHubber Team

Have you watched it? I binge-watched all 8 episodes within two days!

Spoilers ahead.

With the launch of Netflix’s adaptation of “3 Body Problem” under the stewardship of “Game of Thrones” showrunners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, together with Alexander Woo, a considerable buzz has been sparked in the science-fiction community. Featuring ambitious storytelling and high production values, this adaptation of Liu Cixin’s critically acclaimed novel has been heralded for its intricate narrative, complex themes, and the sheer scale of its vision.

Series Overview

“3 Body Problem” is lauded for its unabashed embrace of hard science fiction, weaving concepts like string theory, the Fermi Paradox, and others into its fabric with the ease of a seasoned lecturer.

The show starts with a series of mysterious suicides among the scientific community, hinting at a deeper, more sinister plot that intertwines the fate of humanity with extraterrestrial forces. This narrative setup provides a murder mystery that gradually unveils a larger existential threat, ending with the failure of one of humanity’s plan to even out the scale.

The adaptation has made bold changes from the source material, opting for a more streamlined narrative that compresses the timeline of the “Remembrance of Earth’s Past” series. Characters from the novels were reimagined or merged to fit the series’ structure, focusing on a core group known as the Oxford Five. This choice, while controversial, is praised for enhancing the storytelling, allowing for a more cohesive and engaging narrative flow. I loved the emphasis on emotional undertones which sets the stage for an intimate journey where decisions and developments on screen will rouse your heart.

Special mention goes to the scene from the crossing of the Panama canal by the ship “Judgement Day.” The visuals are horrific yet impressive. Definitely not for the weak stomached!

Critical Reception

Critics have praised the series for its sleek aesthetics and strong ensemble cast, highlighting its ability to tackle dense philosophical questions within a visually compelling and narratively engaging framework. The show’s ambitious adaptation of Liu Cixin’s work is seen as a significant achievement, particularly in how it maintains the novel’s spirit while making it accessible and thrilling for a television audience.

However, some critics note that the series’ complex narrative and slow build-up may not appeal to all viewers. The pacing is described as a “slow burn,” requiring patience from the audience as it layers its story across different timelines and characters. Despite this, the series has been commended for its ability to grip viewers’ attention, particularly from the second episode onwards, rewarding those who stick with it.

Public Reaction and Comparisons

The series has inevitably drawn comparisons to “Game of Thrones,” not only because of its creators but also because of its ambitious scope and the attempt to bring high-concept science fiction to mainstream audiences (and of course the participation of former cast members such as Liam Cunningham – Davos Seaworth and John Bradley – Samwell Tarly).

3 Body Problem has been celebrated for filling a niche within the sci-fi genre, offering a blend of intellectual depth and entertainment that has resonated well with its audience.

SlashFilm captures the essence of the show’s ambitious scope and how it successfully brings hard science fiction to a mainstream audience. They compare its impact and scale to “Game of Thrones,” highlighting how “3 Body Problem” introduces complex scientific concepts and themes with the enthusiasm of a professor eager to engage their students.

Yahoo’s review takes a slightly more cautious stance, labeling the series’ start as “lukewarm” despite acknowledging the adaptation’s high production values and the bold narrative choices made by the showrunners. This perspective suggests a more mixed reception, hinting at the challenges of translating the novel’s dense and complex material into a serialized format that captivates a broad audience.

Looper offers a more nuanced take, emphasizing the series’ “sleek and engaging aesthetics” and its strong ensemble cast. They acknowledge the difficulty of adapting such a “bigger and grander” science-fiction narrative while also noting the show’s success in maintaining the novel’s spirit. This review also mentions the show’s “slow burn” pacing, which may not cater to all viewers but ultimately rewards those who stay with it, providing a gripping and intellectually stimulating experience.

Hubbers’ Takeaway

While Netflix’s “3 Body Problem” with its dense plot and slow pacing may challenge some viewers, those who invest in its story are rewarded with a richly imagined world that questions humanity’s place in the universe and the nature of scientific discovery. This adaptation respects the source material and expands upon it, creating a visually stunning and thought-provoking series that pushes the boundaries of what sci-fi can achieve on television.

And if you have not watched the accompanying insiders episode, here they are!

David Benioff, D. B. Weiss, and Alexander Woo Go Inside Episode 1 | 3 Body Problem | Netflix