Better Than Us

Better Than Us is a compelling Russian science fiction television series that premiered in 2018–2019. A sleek blend of modern technological anxieties, family drama, and crime thriller, this trailblazing series is the first Russian production to be purchased by Netflix for international distribution, a testimony to its broad appeal and storytelling mastery.

The plot of Better Than Us centers around a grim yet sophisticated image of our near future, set in 2029 Moscow. The series underlines the growing anxieties of a society significantly accommodated by android labor—robots designed to servitude, and programmed to follow two prime directives: 'Don't harm any form of human life' and 'Obey human orders'. However, the narrative intensifies when the viewers are introduced to 'Arisa', a unique and mysterious android capable of emotions and decision-making, who can kill to defend herself, thereby contradicting its fundamental programming.

The story delves deep into the consequences of technological advancement and the rise of artificial intelligence. It explores some prominent and formidable themes, including the ethical dilemma of robotics, humanity's obsession with control, artificial intelligence taking over jobs, and the fear of machines becoming more efficient, effective, and moral than us.

Arisa becomes the symbolic centerpiece of several intertwined storylines, featuring a wide variety of characters. Surgeon Georgy Safronov (portrayed by Kirill Käro), is the protagonist, a divorced father of two grappling with intense personal and ethical dilemmas. In the fractured and disjointed world of Better Than Us, Georgy unexpectedly becomes Arisa's custodian, pulling him into a hazardous world of corporate giants, shadow organizations, and law enforcement ranging from the dedicated to the corrupt.

On one hand, Viktor Toropov (played by Aleksandr Ustyugov) leads 'CRONOS', a powerful corporation that brought bots into everyday life and has a keen interest in pursuing Arisa. The character's nuanced presentation oscillates between an ambitious entrepreneur and a ruthless menace, providing a unique reflection on power and morality.

The series also introduces the 'Liquidators', a radical anti-bot movement, illuminating the socio-political repercussions of technological integration. On the domestic front, Georgy's family consisting of his children Egor (Eldar Kalimulin) and Sonya (Vita Kornienko), and his ex-wife Alla (Olga Lomonosova), each add distinct emotional layers to the narrative. Their interactions with Arisa further evoke examinations about what it means to be human, and the role of emotion and empathy in defining humanity.

Visually, Better Than Us showcases a grim but technologically advanced Moscow. The city is depicted as a sprawling futurist landscape, merging architectural conservatism with advanced technology. The cinematography is packed with symbolism and storytelling, contributing significantly to the overall mood and atmosphere of the series.

Interestingly, the series is bilingual, with characters speaking both Russian and English, providing a unique flavor to the storytelling. The performances in the series are commendable, with the actors successfully bringing depth and believability to both their human and android roles.

Beyond the well-crafted characters and compelling narrative, Better Than Us is a thought-provoking series. It propels the viewers to ruminate on significant contemporary questions around artificial intelligence, family relationships, ethic, politics, and our dependence on technology. It presents a sobering picture of the potential trials and tribulations that our relentless quest for technological advancement may bestow upon us.

In conclusion, Better Than Us is a riveting, expertly crafted series that effectively marries family drama, crime thriller elements with provocative sci-fi components. It's a must-watch for all avid fans of the genre and an excellent introduction for those new to it. Its story offers an absorbing exploration of the complexities of the human condition in an age dominated by artificial intelligence, making it a standout series. It successfully propels viewers to contemplate the future of humanity as we tread further into the maze of technological advancement.