The Wachowskis' Netflix Series Is the Sci-Fi Masterpiece Still Rocking in 2024

Summary

• This series was the Wachowskis' previous attempt at a contemporary sci-fi epic.
• With an acclaimed cast and creative storyline, the show has become known for its ambition and thought-provoking themes of diversity.
• The show's dedicated fan base managed to save it from sudden cancellation.

From The Mandalorian to The Walking Dead to Doctor Who, there is no shortage of prominent sci-fi series that we can continue to geek out over. However, there is one series that stands out as one of the most underrated and ambitious science fiction shows ever made. That series is none other than Sense 8, a 2015 Netflix original created by renowned filmmakers Lana and Lilly Wachowski (The Matrix, Cloud Atlas) and J. Michael Straczynski (Babylon 5 ).

What is Sense 8 about?

Set in the present day, the show follows the parallel stories of a number of different characters from around the world. The series begins with each of these eight characters awakening with newfound abilities as they discover a connection to each other's memories and talents.

Each character quickly learns of their true genetics as an entirely new subspecies of homosapiens (called Sensates) who are psychically linked by thought. Over the course of two seasons, the story delves deeper into the understanding of the Sensates, introducing a number of new series regulars and a sinister organization that seeks to wipe them all out.

Sense 8 is an interesting mix of mystery, true science fiction, romance and action, cleverly using its fantastic cast and quality production to show the connections between its characters around the globe.

Who stars in the series?

In addition to being created, written and directed by the renowned Wachowskis, the show features a number of familiar faces in the main cast. Brian J. Smith (Treadstone, The Matrix Resurrections) portrays a Chicago police officer who first senses the suicide of one of the Sensates, prompting his character to investigate further. Jamie Clayton (Designated Survivor, Hellraiser) stars as a young woman named Nomi who, along with her girlfriend Amanita, played by Freema Agyeman (Doctor Who), uses her tech-savvy skills to evade the mysterious group hunting Sensates. British actress Tuppence Middleton (Downton Abbey, The Imitation Game) shows off her accent skills as an Icelandic DJ living in London. And Korean actress Bae Doona (The Host, Cloud Atlas) has a major role in the series as a Seoul businesswoman with a secret identity as an underground kickboxing champion.

Sense 8 boasts many other international stars as part of its main cast, including Tina Desai, Max Riemelt, Miguel Ángel Silvestre, Aml Ameen and Toby Onwumere; as well as other series regulars such as Terrence Mann, Naveen Andrews and Daryl Hannah.

Why the show is worth watching

Over the course of the show's 24 episodes, the series has gained a loyal following for its great visuals, relatable characters and well-developed plot. In addition to its many globetrotting locations and thought-provoking storytelling, the show's unapologetic celebration of diversity and exploration of themes of identity, love, and acceptance became another major draw for viewers.

But why was it canceled?

After the show's second season, Netflix announced its cancellation due to low ratings and high production costs with multiple international filming locations. However, after many very passionate responses from fans on social media and a petition campaign to bring the show back, the streaming giant greenlit an extended series finale to tie up loose ends from the previous season.

The two-hour special was released in 2018 and, unfortunately, marked the end of the series for good. However, the show continues to maintain a dedicated, ongoing fan base.

Where can I watch Sense 8?

As an original series, both seasons of Sense 8 are still available to watch on Netflix (including the ad-supported plan). If you've missed this incredible sci-fi masterpiece, it's definitely still worth watching and not to be missed.