The Expanse is a science fiction television series that is set in the future where humans have colonized the Solar System. It is based on a series of novels written by James S. A. Corey (a pen name for co-authors Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck).
Spoilers Below
The Expanse, developed by Mark Fergus and Hawk Osby (and based on the sci-fi book series of the same name by James S.A. Corey), is one of today’s best science fiction television shows because it deals with contemporary issues and humanizes marginalized groups. The series is an excellent demonstration of how one should adapt a novel into a successful TV series. Season 5 continues that trend.
In this latest season, Belter terrorist and leader of the “Free Navy” Marco Inaros threatens Earth and any peace among the three human groups. Ex- Martian Marine Corps Sergeant Bobbie Draper, Luna Ambassador Chrisjen Avasarala, and retired Martian Navy pilot Alex Kamal investigate the Martian military who appear to be selling weapons on the black market to aid the “Free Navy.” Naomi Nagata and James Holden try to stop the terrorist group from destroying Earth or hurting innocent civilians. Amos Burton deals with some unfinished business down on Earth but finds himself in
Screenshot: Amazon Studios
The Expanse season five has somehow already reached episode six with “Tribes,” a somewhat calmer installment that’s still packed with action and incredible character work, especially for Cara Gee’s Drummer and Wes Chatham’s Amos. Tensions are sky-high as the season enters its second half.
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If you haven’t watched “Tribes” yet, stop right there and go see why Amos’ surprised face and naked torso are covered in blood. You won’t be sorry! Then we can talk all about it below.
It’s time to check back in with Avasarala (Shohreh Aghdashloo), who wasn’t in last week’s episode but is still worried sick about her husband, who hasn’t responded to any of her messages since the asteroid strike near New York. Her vigil is interrupted when a visitor bursts into her office: Minister of Transportation David Paster (Sugith Varughese), who is now, thanks to a lot of dead people in the line of succession, acting in the late Nancy Gao
Warning: spoilers ahead for episode six of season five of “The Expanse.”
Given the appropriate title “Tribes,” the sixth installment for this season of “The Expanse” delivers a little bit of everything. While the previous episode had its own share of memorable moments, it felt like mostly set-up. Not so with “Tribes,” which pays off the escape of Alex and Bobbie, lets us check back in with Avasarala, accelerates the confrontation between Drummer and Marco, and gives us even more fantastic character development with Amos.
The episode also harmonizes its pacing between methodical, rich, quiet moments, and frenetic action sequences. This is no easy task, but “The Expanse” balances it with near-perfect execution.