In 'Pluribus' even a good world needs saving

Gilligan's latest drama explores heroism and human choice

Vince Gilligan, the mastermind behind 'Breaking Bad' and 'Better Call Saul', has returned to television with 'Pluribus', a high-concept sci-fi drama starring Rhea Seehorn.

The series, which premiered on Apple TV on November 7 with two episodes, departs from Gilligan's crime-laden Albuquerque landscapes, presenting a world transformed by a mysterious, all-encompassing psychic phenomenon.

In 'Pluribus', an alien signal triggers a virus-like contagion that compels most of humanity to act in unnervingly benevolent ways, leaving only a dozen immune survivors, including Seehorn's protagonist, Carol Sturka. Described as a "curmudgeonly, self-hating romantasy author," Carol navigates a world where people are cooperative to the point of surrendering individuality. Gilligan calls her a "reluctant and inept" hero, embodying the traits he values in characters who rise to the occasion despite fear and isolation.

The project marks a long-anticipated collaboration between Gilligan and Seehorn, who played Kim Wexler on 'Better Call Saul'. Gilligan wrote the role specifically for her, praising her ability to captivate audiences and handle complex emotional material.Seehorn said she knew immediately the role would be "great," though the secrecy around the script initially left her anxious. Beyond its narrative, 'Pluribus' reflects Gilligan's concerns about contemporary culture and technology.

Gilligan critiques the industry's fixation on monetising sentience, while Seehorn emphasises the enduring value of human experience in art.

With its mix of dark comedy, philosophical inquiry, and surreal sci-fi, 'Pluribus' represents a bold experiment for Gilligan, one that promises to challenge both viewers and the expectations of mainstream television.

The series demonstrates Gilligan's continued interest in reimagining the concept of heroism, offering audiences a story where morality, individuality, and resilience collide in an unfamiliar, yet deeply human, world.