Salvation

If they cut out the entire character Jillian it would improve at least 1-2 stars.

The brutal truth: they have the budget, they have good actors, they don't have the right hooks nor the accurate science. But it's all about relationships and the spinning of chaos in the minds of the characters, the players, at the end of the world. It's about a counter-clock to salvation. Give it a try, maybe they find salvation

First, let's get an important aspect clarified: a lot of reviewers have been (excessively) critical of the scientific veracity behind this show. Yes, they are right, this is not a model of how humanity will divert a ELE capable asteroid.

What this is trying be be is an engaging piece of entertainment that is (1) not a cop drama, (2) not a medical drama, (3) not a who's sleeping with who drama. It has taken a media-popular scenario - asteroid heading toward Earth - and wrapped it in a well presented package with charismatic cast and good pacing. It is absolutely light in scientific accuracy, but - I'm not sure how to put this clearly - IT'S A TV SHOW!!!

There are some interesting characterisations and scripting so far has been tight with only a few 'off pace' moments. Yes, a lot of characters are heavy on stereotype, certainly more than we get in UK shows - but, again, this is an entertainment show. I watch it for my brain to go into neutral and coast along; if I want accuracy, I'll watch Discovery.

As with all good sci-fi - the real story is nothing to do with the tech - it's all about the people and how they react to a situation. The asteroid is simply a McGuffin that puts a shiny angle on the show...

I lowered my season one rating from 8 to 6 because of what I've seen so far with season two,. Initially, I really enjoyed the concept and found it interesting. The acting, although not great, is passable for a B-level summer show. However, season two is way too much soap opera. I thought the show deserved to be renewed for a second season, but right now I am learning towards closing it out.

The first season was borderline great despite a few cliches here and there but the second season tries to do way too much all at once. The result is a frustrating, uninteresting follow up to a promising first season. The constant flip flops, twists, and desperate character development left me wishing the asteroid would hit and put it all to an end.