Vince Gilligan, the acclaimed creator of ‘Breaking Bad,’ has returned with a new sci-fi series titled ‘Pluribus,’ which is being hailed as a triumphant and intelligent addition to 2025’s television landscape, featuring Rhea Seehorn in a standout performance. The show explores themes of individuality and conformity through a dystopian lens, earning five-star reviews for its sharp writing and timely social commentary.
‘Pluribus’ follows Carol Sturka, a cynical historical romance author played by Rhea Seehorn, who finds herself immune to a mysterious global event that renders the entire population perpetually happy. Set in Albuquerque, New Mexico—a familiar location from Gilligan’s previous works—the series begins with a cataclysmic occurrence that transforms society into a unified, eerily cheerful collective, evoking comparisons to classic sci-fi like ‘Invasion of the Body Snatchers’ and George Orwell’s dystopian visions. Carol’s isolation and skepticism drive the narrative as she navigates this new world, questioning the nature of happiness and personal agency while surrounded by people who have lost their individuality.
The show masterfully blends Gilligan’s signature style of blending realistic emotions with outlandish scenarios, much like in ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘Better Call Saul.’ Carol’s journey is both a personal and global quest, supported by characters such as her manager Helen, portrayed by Miriam Shor, and Zosia, played by Karolina Wydra, a woman assigned to help her assimilate into the collective. Through sharp dialogue and black humor, ‘Pluribus’ delves into profound themes about self, purpose, and the cost of conformity, resonating with contemporary issues like artificial intelligence and societal polarization.
Rhea Seehorn delivers an exceptional performance, anchoring the series with her empathetic and witty portrayal of Carol. Critics from BBC and The Times highlight her ability to convey fear, determination, and sardonic humor, making her a compelling heroine in a role that demands both dramatic depth and comedic timing. Her performance is already being touted as Emmy-worthy, grounding the sci-fi plot in relatable human experiences and emotions.
‘Pluribus’ is not just a sci-fi mystery but a thoughtful examination of what it means to be human in an increasingly interconnected world. It challenges viewers to consider whether universal happiness is desirable or if individual agency, even with its struggles, holds more value. The series shifts seamlessly between tones, from comedic moments reminiscent of ‘The Good Place’ to the eerie suspense of ‘The Leftovers,’ showcasing Gilligan’s versatility as a creator and his ability to keep audiences engaged with unpredictable storytelling.
With a second season already ordered by Apple TV+, ‘Pluribus’ is set to continue its exploration of these themes, promising more twists and character development in future episodes. The first two episodes are available now on the streaming platform, with subsequent releases scheduled weekly, ensuring that fans will remain hooked on this addictive and intellectually stimulating series. This early renewal underscores the show’s critical and potential commercial success, solidifying Gilligan’s reputation as a visionary in television storytelling.