Prediction: ‘Foundation’ success for Apple TV?

From Apple TV will emerge, this summer, a new series based on one of the most famous science-fiction novels to have been written: Isaac Asimov’s ‘Foundation’.

It seems content streaming services are hoping to claim their own 'Game of Thrones'-style uber-success, since viewers of HBO and beyond were clearly riveted by this long, character-fuelled chronicle. It managed to mix high fantasy with regal history, strong characters and lots of power play.

But will the characters in ‘Foundation’ prove to be interesting enough, and will the themes prove to captivate people once more? It may be more futuristic and spacey but is no less steeped in historical subtext. And let’s not forget that ‘Dune’ is also emerging, a movie which could win the power and the glory award [read our previous post]. However, and since it will release first, in the summer, ‘Foundation’ could eclipse Dune’s impact and even steal its ‘spice’?

Here at Prizes Drop we’ll take a look and jump to some conclusions, but first don’t forget that just by saving up points you can seize ‘streaming power’ yourself: just swap them for free Amazon, Netflix of Apple TV vouchers when you’ve completed enough mini tasks. These include watching small ads or completing simple surveys. Sign up now for your personal dashboard, if you’re not already earning our precious points. 
 

Now….let’s check out the jaw-dropping trailer for ‘Foundation’...

Despite the original novel being a classic of the science-fiction genre, it’s perhaps not as spiritually intense as ‘Dune’, but it's easily as convoluted, and on a deeper level, more challenging. Those familiar with Roman history and the classics, will see many familiar undertones too. 

At the start, it’s the charisma and mystery surrounding a certain character - a mathematician called Hari Seldon - which draws you in. You don’t get to meet him until later on, and when we do, it’s not as expected. We won’t spoil the plot - or of its sequels - here in this article, but the series is recommended reading before watching the series when it arrives. 

In fact, for keen readers, there is an extensive set of books Asimov wrote in the ‘Foundation’ series, and there are even tribute stories by other sci-fi writers including Greg Bear. And unlike James Herbert’s ‘Dune’ series, Asimov did manage to reach a satisfying kind of conclusion to events. 

So... hopefully, the TV series will be successful enough to prompt some decent follow-ups or prequel seasons which can pay further tribute to all Asimov’s ideas!

Interestingly, both 'Dune' and 'Foundation' - arriving this year - contain deeply resonant themes for our world today, despite being written over 50+ years ago. 

Like never before, we are facing issues on a planetary level which are forcing us to behave and think differently. These are themes - and some solutions - you will find hidden in the subtext of these stories, beyond the usual characters and heroes struggling to do the right thing to prevent the future, or to overturn their present environment. 

In conclusion, 'Foundation' is sure to provide a deeper experience, while 'Dune' may be the more spectacular and stirring. 

Let them both flow through you, and motivate you to action!

In the meantime, keep saving up those points here at Prizes Drop to put towards your favourite TV streaming services, or for free Amazon vouchers. 

- Read more about 'Foundation' on wikipedia.

- Read more about Isaac Asimov on wikipedia.