Rating: 9/10 ⭐️ 🌘
For All Mankind sat in my watchlist for ages. I'd attempted to start it several times, usually abandoning it within minutes before retreating to YouTube... perhaps the time investment seemed daunting. Recently, with some time to spare, I gave it another shot... and proceeded to binge all three seasons over the next two weeks. I'm still processing the emotional rollercoaster this masterpiece took me on. As someone fascinated by space exploration and alternative history, this show hit every note perfectly, leaving me in awe of its ambitious storytelling and incredible character development.
Initially, I expected just another space race story. But it's so much more. The show's genius lies in how it uses its alternate timeline to explore not just space advancement, but human nature itself.
While the space missions provide spectacular moments, it's the ground-level stories that truly shine. The show makes you deeply invest in its characters. I found myself holding my breath during every space mission, not because of the spectacular special effects (though they're incredible), but because I genuinely cared about these people.
Ed and Gordo emerge as Season 1's standout characters. Their story begins with a shared regret - as Apollo 10 crew members, following orders instead of attempting a Moon landing, a decision that haunts them when the Soviets claim this historic achievement. This missed opportunity sets both men on dramatically different paths that intertwine throughout the season.
Season 2's nine-year time jump to 1983 is masterfully handled, presenting a dramatically different world where space exploration has evolved from a race of firsts into a political chess game. The attention to period detail is remarkable - from changing hairstyles to evolving technology, everything feels authentic and lived-in.
Gordo Stevens becomes the heart of Season 2. Michael Dorman's transformation is nothing short of remarkable. The physical change is striking - gone is the cocky, fit astronaut, replaced by a man whose outer appearance reflects his inner struggles. Watching Gordo fight his demons, literally running his way back into astronaut shape while battling PTSD, is both inspiring and heart-wrenching.
While Gordo and Tracy's story steals the show, other character arcs prove equally compelling. Molly Cobb emerges as an absolute badass. Ed Baldwin struggles between desk duty and the call of space, Karen navigates a controversial relationship with Danny Stevens, and Margo Madison performs a complex dance with Soviet engineering. Ellen Wilson's journey, balancing identity and career, provides a powerful subplot about the cost of ambition.
Season 2 proves that lightning can strike twice, building on its foundation while raising the stakes dramatically. The blend of personal redemption stories with Cold War tensions creates a compelling narrative, culminating in one of television's most emotional finales.
If you haven't watched it yet, do yourself a favor and start. Just ensure you have enough time cleared in your schedule - once you begin, you won't want to stop. Trust me, I learned that the hard way during my binge!
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