In a world where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, Apple TV+’s Dark Matter series delves into the intricacies of the multiverse, probing the human condition and the nature of identity. Based on Blake Crouch’s 2016 novel, the show follows Jason Dessen, a physics professor who finds himself entangled in a complex web of alternate realities. As he navigates these parallel universes, Jason confronts the darkest aspects of human nature and the consequences of playing God.
During an interview, Crouch and executive producer Matt Tolmach discussed the intricacies of Season 1, revealing the inner workings of the show’s concept and the creative process behind it. They explored the idea of the multiverse, where Jason’s decisions create alternate realities, and the implications of this concept on the human experience.
Crouch emphasized the importance of keeping the story grounded, stating, “We never let ourselves contemplate what that world was. To me, the world represented a new start, it represented hope.” This approach allowed the creators to maintain a sense of realism and emotional resonance, making the show’s exploration of the multiverse all the more compelling.
A Still From Dark Matter Apple TV show (Photo: Dark Matter)
Tolmach shared his thoughts on the show’s future, stating, “Don’t forget, this thing has kind of evolved in a way. When we first bought the book, it was to adapt as a movie, and then the book sort of declared it needed to be a series.” He hinted that there may be more seasons, allowing the story to evolve and explore new characters and worlds.
Crouch also touched on the theme of empathy and humanity, stating, “World 26 is a super important world for Dark Matter because we call it the ‘present perfect world.’ It’s a world that figured out how to transcend those transactions. It’s a world of empathy. It’s a world of progress.” This sentiment is echoed throughout the show, as Jason’s journey serves as a reflection of humanity’s capacity for self-reflection and growth.
Dark Matter’s innovative exploration of the multiverse and human connection offers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant viewing experience. As the show continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how Crouch and Tolmach tackle the complexities of their concept and the human experience.
