For All Mankind (2019)

The critic finds the alternate-history space race drama gripping and one of Apple TV+'s stronger launch titles, with strong performances, appealing visuals, and uplifting moments across a broad cast. It singles out the reimagined 1969 scenario—where the Soviets reach the moon first—as a compelling hook that escalates into a battle for lunar control.

The review calls the series the strongest of Apple TV+’s launch slate and undeniably compelling, praising its ambitious alternate-history premise, evolving production and costume design, and strong direction especially in space sequences. It notes the writing can feel shaggy given the scope but ultimately keeps the drama grounded in character choices.

The critic finds the alternate-history space race series adequately entertaining and the best of Apple's initial TV+ offerings, though rarely compelling. Production design and storytelling are praised as handsome distractions and well-honed, respectively, while the lack of a clear protagonist makes it feel scattershot at times.

The critic deems the show a solid but familiar attempt at epic storytelling that moves too slowly and does little with its alternate-history concept beyond minor tweaks. It highlights the expensive look, strong cast including Joel Kinnaman and Michael Dorman, and capable weaving of real and fictional characters, but finds the overall execution disappointing.

The critic is torn, appreciating the alternate-history premise and visual spectacle but frustrated by slow pacing, uneven focus on male characters over women, and underdeveloped side plots. It has potential but feels jumbled after several episodes.

The critic finds the alternate-history premise squandered by dull, uninteresting storytelling choices at every turn. The show fails to capitalize on its possibilities around the space race and women astronauts.

The critic calls it a must-see prestige drama that excels by blending alt-history politics, meticulous technical details, strong ensemble performances, and emotional depth. It turns national competition into unexpected social progress while grounding the spectacle in flawed human stories.

The critic finds the series ambitious and thought-provoking in its alternate-history premise but notes it lacks subtlety and has uneven acting and dialogue. The show is praised for its engaging depiction of a recognizable yet altered reality that prompts reflection on real-world history.

The critic views the series as a slow but ultimately gripping character-driven drama about sexism in the workplace and American ambition in an alternate-history space race. It feels familiar, like Mad Men set at NASA, but benefits from strong performances and standout episodes in the back half.

The series is a bit of a mess with lackluster execution and too much focus on male astronauts, but ultimately a worthwhile what-if exercise. It shines in capturing the awe of space travel and some supporting characters.