For various reasons, sci-fi authors in the 1950s fixated on tales of extraterrestrials who discretely blend into human society, only to transform us into emotionless automatons. This theme of “body snatchers” has remained a favorite, mainly because it serves as a versatile metaphor. Whether the topic is communism, suburban sameness, counterculture movements, military actions, or extreme political divisions, just add some alien influence, and you can explore these issues while delivering spine-chilling thrills.

Vince Gilligan’s latest creation for Apple TV, Pluribus, twists the classic body-snatcher plot into a mix of satire and less intense suspense. The aliens in Pluribus cleverly disseminate a cosmic formula that eventually transforms Earth’s scientists into affable beings sharing a collective consciousness. This contagious cheer spreads, leaving only a few, including the irritable author Carol Sturka (Rhea Seehorn), unassimilated. Despite the apparent bliss of the “Joined” individuals, Carol is determined to resist integration.

Gilligan, known for his work on Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, initially made a name for himself with The X-Files, blending dark humor with the show’s typical eerie themes. He brings a similar tone to Pluribus, asking what if Invasion Of The Body Snatchers was a piece of absurd theater? What if the global conspiracy was actually quite mellow, and the main antagonist was somewhat disagreeable?

The first episode, “We Is Us,” presents Carol, a bestselling romance fantasy writer who views her own novels as trivial nonsense. Despite her cynicism and personal demons, Carol believes it’s her responsibility to defend humanity against the alien threat, even though the odds are hugely against her, emphasized early in both “We Is Us” and the second episode, “Pirate Lady.”

Gilligan crafted the role of Carol specifically for Seehorn, a standout from Better Call Saul. Seehorn’s ability to portray both toughness and vulnerability simultaneously shines through in her portrayal of Carol, whose motives are intriguingly ambiguous at the outset of the series.

Faithful to his style, Gilligan gradually unfolds the narrative, captivating viewers with the meticulous buildup to an eventual climax. The premiere takes its time introducing Carol, initially focusing on the scientists decoding and reacting to the alien message, suggesting a playful nod to humanity’s own attempts at interstellar communication.

These initial scenes blend the bizarre, the creepy, and the humorous so effectively that they captivate even as the full picture unfolds slowly. Similarly, “Pirate Lady” starts with a peculiar sequence involving a grimy woman in a war-torn region, adding layers of intrigue and anticipation.

Much like his previous works, Gilligan sets Pluribus in Albuquerque, using the city’s stark landscapes to underscore the isolation of Carol, a distrustful loner by nature. The juxtaposition of ordinary suburban life against the harsh desert environment provides a perfect backdrop for a narrative about alienation and defiance.

Sequence One: The Collapse occurs as Carol and Helen are caught unawares by “The Joining” at a local bar. The sudden, forced transformation into the collective leads to chaos, with Carol narrowly escaping as those around her are transformed.

Sequence Two: The Call features the collective attempting to communicate with Carol through her TV, humorously using a suited government official to relay their peaceful intentions, though they express a desire to understand and “fix” why Carol remains unjoined.

Sequence Three: The Burial and Sequence Four: The Meeting further explore the complexities of Carol’s resistance, highlighting both the global impact of the alien scheme and the personal toll it takes on her.

Gilligan’s Pluribus seems poised to challenge the conventions of its genre, offering a unique take that questions the value of individuality versus collective harmony. The series promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of these themes, maintaining an air of mystery that keeps viewers guessing about its direction.

Additional Thoughts

• • Carol’s struggle with alcohol is subtly depicted through her behavior and interactions, rather than explicit discussions, reflecting her internal battle with dependency.
• • Helen’s brief but impactful presence offers a grounding perspective on Carol’s life and choices, leaving a noticeable void following her departure from the show.
• • The shift toward a vegetarian world suggests a larger commentary on societal change forced by the collective’s influence, hinting at broader ethical considerations.
• • The humorous yet relatable moment when Carol struggles with her smart TV’s connectivity issues adds a touch of everyday realism to the high-concept narrative.
• • Gilligan’s direction in these episodes showcases his distinctive visual style, masterfully using spatial dynamics and subtle humor to enhance the storytelling.