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Apple TV+ Unveils Trailer for Sci-Fi Series “Murderbot,” Starring Alexander Skarsgård
Apple TV+ has released the trailer for its upcoming science fiction series, “Murderbot,” based on Martha Wells’ acclaimed The Murderbot Diaries book series. The series stars Alexander Skarsgård (Succession) as a humanoid robot who, initially programmed for lethal purposes, gains sentience after hacking its own systems. The preview evokes themes reminiscent of Black Mirror episodes exploring artificial intelligence and robotics.
A Glimpse into the World of “Murderbot”
The trailer offers a preview of the show’s unique blend of dark humor and suspense. It showcases the protagonist, Murderbot, engrossed in streaming thousands of hours of television while simultaneously tasked with safeguarding the humans under its watch. This juxtaposition highlights the show’s exploration of a sentient killing machine grappling with its newfound free will and self-awareness, epitomized by its chosen moniker, “Murderbot.”
The series features appearances from Jack McBrayer (30 Rock), John Cho (Cowboy Bebop), Clark Gregg (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), and DeWanda Wise (She’s Gotta Have It). These actors are glimpsed in the trailer as members of an interstellar crew within The Rise & Fall of Sanctuary Moon, a fictional program that captivates Murderbot.
Deadpan Humor in a Dystopian Setting
Alexander Skarsgård’s performance in the trailer suggests a characteristically dry wit, reminiscent of his previous roles in darkly comedic scenarios. This comedic approach aligns with Apple TV+’s growing catalog of dystopian and absurdist series, although “Murderbot” appears to carve its own distinct path within this genre.
One trailer scene depicts Murderbot inadvertently endangering David Dastmalchian’s character (Oppenheimer). When Dastmalchian’s character reacts with understandable alarm, Murderbot matter-of-factly responds, “There was a chance, yes, but everything turned out fine.” This exchange exemplifies the series’ potential for humor arising from the robot’s detached, unemotional perspective, contrasting sharply with human reactions.
Release Date
“Murderbot” is scheduled to premiere on Apple TV+ on May 16th. Viewers can anticipate a series that balances suspense with moments of levity within a compelling science fiction narrative.