Common Sense Media Review
By Joyce Slaton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Space exploration drama has language, strong emotion.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The First
What's the Story?
In a (slightly) futuristic world, the crew of the Providence hopes to be THE FIRST humans on Mars. But when the launch doesn't go as planned, it's up to aerospace magnate Laz Ingram (Natascha McElhone) and disgraced commander Tom Hagerty (Sean Penn) to pick up the pieces, figure out what went wrong, and, in the midst of personal conflicts, decide whether the mission can go on.
Is It Any Good?
Viewers lured by this drama's space exploration angle may be disappointed to find a slow-burning character study instead of a zippy space epic, but that's not intended as an insult. On the contrary, the writing is good, and the acting positively terrific -- Sean Penn still has it, and Natascha McElhone is sublimely easy to watch as steely corporate queen Laz Ingram. Though Hulu's marketing of the show is heavy on the imagery of astronauts in suits and sunrises as seen from space, we spend a lot more time in Hagerty's house, watching him shave and pal around with his dog, and on hangar floors and corporate meeting rooms with Laz, which is where the real drama takes place.
Like every compelling drama, The First picks up in the middle of something big, while secrets simmer in the background. Just what happened between Tom and his wife and daughter that left him living monastically solo? What series of decisions led to Laz okaying the Providence launch, and where will the Mars program go now that the mission's in tatters? Patient viewers who appreciate truly adult drama won't mind waiting for the answers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why space exploration is such a popular topic for drama and fantasy. What about this setting intrigues? Why are filmmakers and TV creators drawn to it? What dramatic possibilities does it hold?
How do the characters in The First demonstrate courage and empathy? Why are those important character strengths?
This drama is rated TV-MA for language. Is the language integral to the story? Is it realistic? Is this the way people really talk? Do you think this drama should be watched by mature viewers, or should it be watched by anyone? Why?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 14, 2018
- Cast : Sean Penn , Natasha McElhone , Melissa George
- Network : Hulu
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Courage , Empathy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : February 15, 2023
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