Reviews

Its not the best sci-fi, but its not the worst either. I've seen some unbearable sci-fi executed much worse than this offering that have much better ratings, so I dont get all the hate. Maybe with Katee Sackhoff starring expectations of another BSG let people down from the get go. The story line is pretty standard, what you would expect when a bunch of astronauts forge into the unknown on an important interstellar quest triggered by a sudden discovery of alien life. Run of the mill scenarios are mixed in with the exploration of a few new interesting ideas. Another downside, the casting and sub plots are not as dark or edgy as BSG or The Expanse, but with a more high school drama treatment like Buffy or The Magicians, maybe done in an attempt to attract the non sci fi fans, but I think this fails, and is what ends up disappointing the hardcore sci fi fans the most. Good enough story to keep you interested, decent production quality, good enough acting bar Katee Sackhoff who is her usual excellent intense self, as you would expect. Wont be winning any major awards or become a cult classic, but definitely watchable entertainment on par with series like Falling Skies or Dark Matter.

I started watching Beyond with low expectations because the premise sounds pretty typical. Cute boy mysteriously receives powers and is forced into action to protect the cute girl. I'm glad I was pleasantly surprised. Its still a typical small town unwilling teen hero plot, but the story line is absorbing, the acting is good and the characters are interesting enough to drive the story forward. A nice mix of mystery, drama, action and a sprinkle of horror in a teen hero plot complete with all the eye candy needed in today's ADD environment. I either rate things high if I like it or low if I don't, I don't believe in anything that exists in between. Beyond gets my vote for a good TV show.