Netflix’s epic sci-fi series, 3 Body Problem, is “nonsense” in terms of scientific plausibility, according to a scientist. Given how science fiction shows never promise to be scientifically accurate, this criticism should not be surprising. However, it still underscores how far the Netflix sci-fi TV show and its source material expect audiences to stretch their suspension of disbelief.
Dr. Paul Sutter, who is a cosmologist and astrophysicist, reacted (via Insider) to two scenes from Netflix’s 3 Body Problem. After initially explaining the real meaning of the three-body problem and appreciating the show’s use of the term “syzygy,” he delved deep into how the series’ depiction of syzygies creating strong gravitational pulls is a little too extreme.
He also criticized 3 Body Problem‘s portrayal of how new dimensions unfold, highlighting how it makes little sense. Overall, he gave the sequence from the show a “3/10” for realism, saying that its discussion of compact dimensions seems fine, but it loses points for not maintaining scientific plausibility with everything that followed.
What This Means For Netflix’s 3 Body Problem
Sutter’s Criticism Should Not Impact The Show’s Watchability
Some of the best sci-fi shows often try to ground themselves in comprehensible and real scientific concepts. However, despite drawing on real science, they never promise to accurately depict it. The whole point of the sci-fi genre is to use real science as a mere springboard to explore imaginative and fantastical storytelling.
Since 3 Body Problem also seems to do the same, the criticism behind its science should not be taken too seriously. Dr. Paul Sutter’s comments on the show’s portrayal of syzygies and compact dimensions help trigger new discussions about the possibilities speculative fiction can explore before going beyond the threshold of realism.
At the same time, they also invite curious viewers to learn more about the scientific concepts that have been thrown around in the series without being too judgmental about how they have been explored in a fictional narrative. However, with that said, the criticism, by no means, affects the show’s entertainment value because the series ultimately thrives on gripping character beats and well-written conflicts.
Our Take On 3 Body Problem’s Lack Of Scientific Plausibility
Despite Its Lack Of Plausibility, 3 Body Problem Is A Fun Addition To Sci-Fi
Dr. Paul Sutter’s comments on the two 3 Body Problem sequences play a crucial role in educating viewers about the distinction between pure science and its over-the-top portrayal in speculative fiction. However, his criticism of scientific accuracy should not be a means to judge the Netflix show’s quality.
Netflix 3 Body Problem is based on Cixin Liu’s acclaimed sci-fi book, The Three Body Problem.
Created by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss, of the Game of Thrones fame, 3 Body Problem boasts an impressive Rotten Tomatoes critics’ score of 78%. After its incredible season 1 run, it has also been renewed for another installment on Netflix, which should be a good reason for viewers to check it out.
This story originally appeared on Screenrant
