What Are Some Examples of Truly Terrible Science Fiction Shows?

Science fiction, with its profound ability to imagine futuristic worlds and advanced technologies, has captivated audiences for decades. However, not all science fiction shows live up to the high expectations set by the genre's legendary classics. Here, we take a look at some truly terrible science fiction shows that fail to meet the mark.

The Forgotten Golden Age of Captain Video

Back in the 1950s, television saw its share of forgettable science fiction shows, among which Captain Video stands out as a prime example of cheesiness. Originally aired as part of the The Honeymooners reruns, this show featured cheap spaceships and cheesy space suits that would make even the most ardent sci-fi fan squirm. Despite the antics, it had a fanbase, including one notable personality— actor Ed Norton. Norton’s love for the show was so deep that he would wear the official Captain Video space helmet while watching it. One memorable scene involved Ed asking his wife Alice if he could watch Captain Video on her TV set, leaving the apartment just as the announcer exclaimed, “Captain Video is about to take off for Pluto and the Moon.” Ralph Kramden’s subsequent reaction, with his eyes bulging wide open, became a classic moment in television history.

The Budget-Blinded 3 Body Problem

3 Body Problem, a new Netflix series from the team behind Game of Thrones, suffers from a similar ailment. While it boasts a substantial budget of $20 million per episode, this investment fails to translate into a coherent and credible storyline. The show's most significant flaw lies in its depiction of the alien race's technological capabilities. These beings are shown breaking the laws of physics but still face the challenge of migrating to Earth due to the unstable three-sun system orbiting their planet. This concept, while intriguing, falls apart when you consider the physical laws that they are alleged to be breaking. If they can manipulate physics in such a way, why not simply use their advanced technology to resolve the instability issue? It’s clear that the show’s creators have not given substantial thought to the scientific consistency of their narrative.

The Firefly and Fringe Debacle

Two other shows that instantly come to mind are Firefly and Fringe. Both series share the same underlying issue: unrealistic characters that dilute the potential for thoughtful storytelling.

Firefly, while incorporating a compelling space opera premise and a colorful cast of characters, ultimately disappoints with its rampant use of humor. Cracking jokes and delivering cheesy lines become the norm, making it almost impossible to take the story seriously. For me, it became a standing rule never to finish a single episode. The characters' constant humor comes at a cost, overshadowing the show’s potential for more nuanced storytelling. Additionally, the writers frequently relied on low-brow comedy, which is a major reason why I found it off-putting.

On the other hand, Fringe started with great promise, grounded in a solid concept of alternate realities and scientific anomalies. However, the show deviated from its initial premise by adding comic elements that undermined the narrative’s tone. Constant wisecracks by the characters detract from the potential for deep and thought-provoking atmospheres. The show’s concept was brilliant, but the execution was flawed. I couldn’t get through the first season because the incessant jokes just grated on me, especially when the characters found themselves in serious and potentially life-threatening situations. The blend of comedy and a serious atmosphere rarely works, as each genre demands a different emphasis and pacing.

In conclusion, while science fiction can delve into wildly imaginative and complex narratives, it’s clear that not all shows achieve the genre’s potential. Capturing the essence of science fiction requires a balance of scientific plausibility, character development, and storytelling that goes beyond surface-level humor. From Captain Video to the more modern 3 Body Problem and Firefly, these shows remind us of the importance of maintaining integrity and consistency in our sci-fi narratives.