Netflix Series 3 Body Problem Review: Rating 4.7/5 <Super Highly Recommended>
Among all the Netflix series I watched last year, 3 Body Problem was undoubtedly the best.
The pacing was smooth, the themes were captivating, and the concept of traversing time and space had me completely hooked from start to finish.
************************************Genre: SF(Sci-Fi) / Space Sci-Fi / Thriller************************************
The show is based on the acclaimed novel of the same name by Chinese author Liu Cixin.
Known for its vast narrative, imaginative world-building, and philosophical depth, the novel has been hailed as a pinnacle of sci-fi literature, earning global recognition.
I didn’t even know about the book before watching the show, but it turns out the author is quite celebrated and has won numerous prestigious awards.
It was a reminder of just how critical a strong story is to the success of any adaptation.
Season 1 of the series adapts the first book in the trilogy, focusing on humanity’s first contact with the alien civilization known as the Trisolarans.
However, it’s not just a simple sci-fi story about alien contact.
The series delves deeper, raising profound questions about the nature of human society and civilization.
By weaving between the past and the present, it masterfully combines scientific mysteries with philosophical dilemmas, keeping viewers deeply engaged.
The story begins during China’s Cultural Revolution, with physicist Ye Wenjie witnessing her father’s brutal death. The show highlights the ideological suppression of science during this era and Ye’s growing disillusionment with both society and science itself.
She is sent to a remote location, which becomes the site of humanity’s first contact with the Trisolarans.
In the present day, the narrative shifts to Wang Miao, a scientist researching cutting-edge nanomaterials.
She becomes embroiled in a series of mysterious suicides among fellow scientists, all of whom share a sense of overwhelming despair. As Wang investigates, she discovers a connection to a virtual reality game called 3 Body.
This game, however, is no ordinary entertainment—it serves as a crucial link to the Trisolaran civilization.
The 3 Body game is set in a chaotic world where the sun’s unpredictable movements create an almost impossible environment for survival.
Through the game, Wang gradually uncovers the survival mechanisms of the Trisolarans and begins to understand the stark differences between their civilization and humanity.
Eventually, it is revealed that the game is a tool used by the Trisolarans to communicate with humanity.
The CGI in the series is absolutely stunning, particularly in the game sequences.
The depiction of the chaotic 3 Body world and its unpredictable sun creates a sense of awe and immersion. Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if games like this become a reality in the next decade.
As the story progresses, it is revealed that the Trisolarans see Earth as their only hope for survival due to the instability of their own world.
However, their plan is far from peaceful—they intend to replace humanity and claim Earth as their own.
What makes the story even more intense is the internal conflict within humanity itself. A faction called the Earth-Trisolaris Organization (ETO) emerges, worshiping the Trisolarans and believing they will save humanity.
This group actively works against humanity, showcasing how internal divisions prevent humans from uniting against external threats.
Ye Wenjie plays a pivotal role as the first person to make contact with the Trisolarans.
Her despair over societal corruption and the suppression of science leads her to open the door for the Trisolarans to approach Earth. Her story is not just about personal choices but also a symbolic representation of the societal and ideological struggles of her time.
Season 1 ends on a thrilling note, with humanity scrambling to delay the Trisolarans’ arrival.
It’s a sobering thought—what could we really do if faced with such an overwhelming existential threat?
The tension as the Trisolarans approach Earth is palpable, and the series effectively captures the vulnerability and complexity of human civilization.
Netflix’s adaptation of 3 Body Problem succeeds in visualizing the vast universe of the novel.
From the chaotic Three-Body game to the unpredictable movements of the Trisolaran sun, the series delivers breathtaking visuals and an immersive experience.
It doesn’t just entertain—it provokes deep reflection on the nature of humanity and civilization.
For me, the most memorable part of the series was the sheer tension as the Trisolarans drew closer to Earth.
The conflicts and choices of characters like Ye Wenjie and Wang Miao not only drive the story but also make us question the fragility and resilience of human society. While it’s impossible for the series to capture every detail of the novel, Season 1 does an excellent job of conveying its core themes.
With the story set to expand in Season 2, I can’t wait to see how the conflict between the Trisolarans and humanity evolves. The stakes are higher than ever, and I’m eager to see how this gripping saga unfolds.
By the way, I’ve heard there’s also a Chinese TV adaptation of 3 Body Problem, which has been praised as well.
Maybe I’ll give it a watch. And let’s not forget the shocking behind-the-scenes stories about the production team—like the rumored murder case. Drama on and off-screen, it seems!
In any case, 3 Body Problem is a must-watch series. Netflix, please bring on Season 2 already!