Apple TV+ (dir. Scott Z. Burns, 2023), March-April 2023, 8 episodes
“Exprapolations” is a futuristic TV series set between 2037 and 2070, exploring various hypothetical scenarios of climate change impacts. The show presents eight distinct narratives acrosse its eight episodes, each highlighting diverse challenges and consequences stemming from climate change.
2037
Setting:
Climate Change Impact: Decreased Air Quality, Wildfires
Characters: Marshall, Mr. Bilton, Rebecca Shearer
2046
Climate Change Impact:
Characters:
Technology:
2047
Climate Change Impact:
Characters:
Technology:
2059
Climate Change Impact:
Characters:
Technology:
2059 Part II
Setting: Takes place in India
Climate Change Impact: Extreme air pollution and heat
Characters: Gaurav & Neel
A reality, where the world functions during the night, there is a curfew in the morning when the sun rises and people are no longer allowed outside and go to bed. As pictured above people sleep in air tight sleeping bags almost to cool themselves and protect from the extreme heat while sleeping. The episode focuses on two main characters Gaurav and Neel who are smuggling rice seeds, stolen from a seed vault. Many of the themes throughout this episode is a fear of technology, with novel oxygen devices, and the danger of such increases in oxygen and decreased air quality.
2066
Climate Change Impact:
Characters:
Technology:
Episode 7
Episode 8
Cross Temporal Themes
Relationships between Parent/Child
Religious Faith
Commodification
Extrapolations explores the theme of commodification through its depiction of a futuristic society where every aspect of life, including, memories, and wildlife, and oxgen can be commodified and traded. The show delves into the consequences of such a society, where human experiences are reduced to mere commodities, leading to a loss of authenticity and a profound sense of alienation among its characters.
Episode 2: Commodification of Wildlife
In Episode 2, Rebecca Shearer, a biologist is employed by Menagerie2100, a company specializing in genetic replication of endangered animals for future regeneration and commercial purposes. The episode exposes Menagerie2100’s unethical practices, including questionable means of obtaining genetic material from endangered species. This storyline highlights the theme of commodification, specifically critiquing the exploitation of wildlife for economic gain and the controversial concept of reviving extinct species for profit.
Episode 4 Part II: Commodification of Oxgen
In Episode 4 Part II, the show illustrates a future reality where the commodification of oxygen has become a stark reality. Set in India, where air quality has deteriorated significantly, the episode depicts streets lined with vendors selling oxygen. People are forced to pay for every two minutes of oxygen they breathe, highlighting the extreme measures individuals must take to access clean air. This portrayal serves as a poignant commentary on the commodification of essential resources and the potential consequences of environmental degradation.
Episode 6: Commodification of Memory
In Episode 6, Ezra grapples with the consequences of using Summer Heart, which includes early-onset dementia. Throughout the episode, Ezra frequently consults ‘Minds Eye,’ a technology akin to iCloud, for guidance. He is confronted with a difficult decision: to delete certain memories to free up space for new ones, much like how we manage storage by deleting photos. Ezra’s struggle stems from the emotional weight attached to his memories. Each memory represents a part of his life, a piece of his identity and experiences that define who he is. The idea of deleting memories, even if it means making room for new ones, forces Ezra to confront the fragility of his own identity and raises questions about the nature of memory and self.
Extrapolations serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of commodification, highlighting the importance of preserving authentic human experiences in a world increasingly dominated by technology and consumerism