Away

Away is a gripping science fiction drama series that debuted on Netflix in 2020. Directed by Jeffrey Reiner and created by Andrew Hinderaker, the show challenges the bounds of human exploration and personal resilience in outer space. Hinderaker's script was inspired by an Esquire article by Chris Jones, pegging reality with complex science fiction storytelling to deliver a narrative that is as intriguing as it is thoughtful.

The show pivots around astronaut Emma Green, played by the acclaimed actress Hilary Swank, who has the splendid opportunity to captain the first manned mission to Mars, named Atlas. Emma’s journey is a testament to her professional brilliance as well as a reflection of her personal struggles, as she grapples with the weight of leaving her family behind. The range of sentiments, from aspiration, apprehension, to determination and fear echoes across the space mission and Earth, presenting an emotional spectacle of an individual endeavor which affects collective lives.

Alienated from her supportive husband, Matt Logan, played by Josh Charles, a NASA engineer, and her teenage daughter Alexis, acted by Talitha Bateman, the show poignantly explores Emma’s battle between her monumental professional responsibilities and her personal attachments. The balance between her commitments towards her ambitious mission and the longing for her family brings a great sense of humanity to what would otherwise be a purely scientific exploration.

Away comprises an ensemble of international co-astronauts who come with their personal histories and demons to conquer. Portrayed by a diverse cast including Chinese actress Vivian Wu as Lu, Russian actor Mark Ivanir as Misha, Indian actor Ray Panthaki as Ram, and Ghanaian actor Ato Essandoh as Kwesi, these characters bring an intriguing set of dynamics. Their individual stories are narratively potent, making the show a tapestry of intertwined personal journeys against the backdrop of the expansive cosmos.

The narrative majorly draws tension from the team dynamic of the Atlas crew. Like any high-pressure work environment, their interactions range from mutual respect and camaraderie to disagreements and power clashes. The international nature of the crew also brings issues of cultural differences and disputes into the equation. Their shared challenges and triumphs throughout the mission to Mars anchor a lot of the storytelling in Away, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Yet, despite the ensemble drama, the heart of the show remains with Emma Green. Her struggle to adjust to her new circumstances, dealing with the guilt of leaving her family, and the immense pressure of her role as commander are communicated skillfully through Swank's intense performance, lending a human touch to the ruthless and infinite outer space. She personifies the conflicts and victories, dreams and fears of humans endeavoring to make a footprint beyond Earth.

Away also employs striking and visually stunning scenes, with state-of-the-art cinematography, to give glimpses of the adverse conditions on the ship and the awe-inspiring vastness of space. The combination of incredible special effects, realistic sets, and plausible scientific details offer audiences an immersive experience. Yet, the show never loses its emotional core, making sure the human essence outshines the technical marvels.

The reality of a long journey, the strain it puts on familial relationships, and an arduous spaceship lifestyle blend reality and fiction in a very intriguing manner. The emerging question throughout the series is whether human ambition for space exploration can measure against the human need for companionship, love, and the familiar comforts of home.

Away is an extraordinary dose of human drama in an otherworldly setting. While it significantly revolves around space travel, it weaves an eloquent tale of aspiration, sacrifice, determination, and the pursuit of dreams, touched by the specter of loss and loneliness. The show resonantly echoes the universal sentiment that no matter how far we venture into the unknown, the most cherished place will always be home. However, the venturing spirit of humanity continues to propel us forward, undeterred, into new realms of discovery and understanding. Away captures this spirit with its deft storytelling and emotional depth, making it an interesting watch for those interested in space travel and viewers seeking deeper human stories.