3 Body Problem

It isn’t often that Chinese written works achieve worldwide success. However, with Netflix’s recent adaptation of Lin Cunxin’s successful novel series Remembrance of Earth’s Past in the TV drama 3 Body Problem, such success is clearly achievable. The popular TV drama amassed over 11 million views in the past few months on Netflix, and millions watched it in China despite the country’s ban on the streaming site. Although the show’s success came with much controversy regarding its decision to set the story primarily in the UK rather than in China, the diverse cast of characters, as well as the show producer’s untimely death prior to its release, it still managed to captivate audiences worldwide with an enthralling plot and advanced themes that are extremely relevant today.

What is particularly intriguing about 3 Body Problem is how much the plot relies on actual science. While many science fiction stories depend heavily on elements of fantasy and the supernatural, 3 Body Problem uses real astrophysics and mathematics to tell a lifelike story. Because of this, the TV series resonates more deeply with its audience, as there are very real possibilities that similar events could occur in the future. While it’s hard to imagine a world in which math and science no longer work and humanity faces impending doom (even though it's 400 years away), 3 Body Problem explores these themes of massive-scale crises and the widespread panic they induce in the world’s population and governments.

The series not only reflects on a hypothetical future but also on the past, specifically China’s Cultural Revolution. Overall, the series’ take on the Cultural Revolution is highly critical, mainly highlighting the psychological trauma caused by its brutality and its hindrance to the progress of science and innovation within the country. This psychological trauma of one scientist ultimately leads to humanity’s eventual doom.

For all of these reasons, I really resonated with 3 Body Problem for its diversity and the unique storyline. It isn’t often that Western audiences get to see Chinese history and culture represented in mainstream media and even though most of the show takes place in the United Kingdom, it’s still a huge win for Chinese culture, which I feel is largely overlooked in the West. The sheer diversity of the cast also distinguishes this series from others. Although the actual characters’ individual backgrounds play a very minute role in terms of plot development, it is really nice to see a more broad array of cultural representation in the characters of a major Netflix series. 

While I wouldn’t consider myself a huge sci-fi fan, I quickly was drawn to the series’ enthralling storyline and would highly recommend it to anyone who has any interest in science fiction and dramas or who just wants to try watching something new. The series leaves you guessing after each episode and it left me in sheer awe after finishing it. To conclude, 3 Body Problem tells a unique and refreshing story that melds elements of the past and the future to create a compelling tale that explores existential themes sure to fascinate anyone who watches it!