Apple TV
Lowest-Rated Sci-Fi Series Achieves Streaming Success Despite Criticism
In the competitive world of streaming television, Invasion, a science fiction series available on Apple TV+, has managed to carve out a surprising niche of success despite receiving mixed reviews. The series, which premiered four years ago, recently concluded its third season. While it is yet to be renewed for a fourth season, its creator, Simon Kinberg, has a vision that encompasses four seasons. As it stands, Invasion has garnered a 60% approval rating from critics and a 48% score from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes, making it Apple TV+'s lowest-rated sci-fi series to date.
Exploring a World Under Siege
Invasion is set against the backdrop of an alien invasion, presenting a narrative that spans across three continents in its first season. The series is produced by Simon Kinberg and is known for its high production value and a diverse cast of independent protagonists, including Shamier Anderson and Golshifteh Farahani. As a TV-MA rated drama, the show delves into the themes of family and survival, with a particular focus on emotional personal narratives.
The storyline introduces viewers to a psychic schoolboy whose abilities become a crucial element as the series progresses. The first season sets the stage for a complex narrative, while the second season, released in 2023, jumps forward in time and introduces three distinct storylines, each packed with more action than the inaugural season.
Character Development and Critical Reception
Season 3, released in 2025, sees the series' protagonists unite in a manner that enhances the storytelling. The show emphasizes strong female characters and features the partnership between Trevante and Aneesha, the latter of whom deals with her son's emerging psychic abilities. Despite these developments, Invasion has faced criticism for its pacing, which some viewers and critics have found to be a hindrance to the overall experience.
The series has, however, managed to grow its audience over time, particularly during its third season. This growth can be attributed in part to its exploration of personal and emotional narratives set within the larger context of an alien invasion, a formula that resonates with a segment of its viewers.
Murderbot: A Different Sci-Fi Experience
In contrast to Invasion, another science fiction series on Apple TV+ has gained attention for its unique approach to the genre. Murderbot, a show based on Martha Wells' novel series, offers a sharp and satirical take on artificial intelligence. With its innovative storytelling and engaging narratives, the series has been renewed for a second season.
Murderbot blends humor with sci-fi concepts and features a self-proclaimed television junkie who uses a fictional program called Sanctuary Moon—a mix of Star Trek and soap opera—to bond with humans. The series, rated TV-MA, is a mix of comedy, drama, action, and science fiction, and is helmed by showrunners Paul and Chris Weitz, known for their work in comedies.
The Future of Sci-Fi on Apple TV+
Both Invasion and Murderbot illustrate the diverse landscape of science fiction offerings available to viewers on Apple TV+. While Invasion continues to navigate its mixed reception, its potential fourth season remains in limbo. Meanwhile, Murderbot's renewal signals a continuing interest in exploring unique and engaging sci-fi narratives that push the boundaries of the genre.
As these series evolve, they contribute to the broader conversation about the role of science fiction in contemporary media, offering varied perspectives on storytelling, character development, and thematic exploration. Whether viewers are drawn to the dramatic tension of an alien invasion or the comedic undertones of a sentient AI, Apple TV+ provides a platform for diverse sci-fi narratives to thrive.