TV

Netflix’s New Sci-Fi Show Was Actually Inspired by This Major 00s Flop

Netflix’s New Sci-Fi Show Was Actually Inspired by This Major 00s Flop
Image credit: Netflix, Searchlight Pictures

Let’s hope things will work out better this time.

Summary:

  • 3 Body Problem is a Netflix sci-fi series set to premiere in March 2024.
  • The show was created by the duo behind Game of Thrones, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss.
  • According to the producers, they were inspired by Danny Boyle 's 2007 sci-fi film Sunshine, which flopped upon its release.

People will always be fascinated by the unknown, perhaps that is why the sci-fi genre is so popular with viewers. The imaginary scenarios that explain things that humanity still can't explain are extremely intriguing and inspiring, no matter how many laws of real-world physics they break in the process.

Known for their work on the HBO hit Game of Thrones, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss are not the ones to slow down or get stuck in one genre. Now they are preparing to unveil another of their creations, the sci-fi series 3 Body Problem.

Based on the novel of the same name by Alexander Woo, the show will tell the story of a group of scientists who somehow get the call from the past and are given a mission to save humanity from its greatest threat.

What's even more interesting, however, is the source of inspiration for the series that the creators have chosen.

3 Body Problem Behind The Scenes Details

Netflix’s New Sci-Fi Show Was Actually Inspired by This Major 00s Flop - image 1

Speaking to GamesRadar, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss were quick to mention the movies that most influenced the new series. Among them were Stanley Kubrick's A Space Oddyssey, as well as the other, much more underrated gem.

“Danny Boyle did that movie Sunshine, which had moments of that awe-and-wonder feeling. It’s not just about a monster chasing you and you need to get away. It’s the feeling of wonder that comes with great science fiction,” D.B. Weiss said.

Released in 2007, Sunshine was supposed to be a hit, but turned out to be one of the most prominent flops of the decade.

Directed by Danny Boyle and starring such great actors as Cillian Murphy, Chris Evans and Michelle Yeoh, the film was a solid intergalactic adventure, but completely failed to draw audiences into theaters.

With a budget of $40 million, the film only managed to make $34 million at the international box office, making it a huge commercial flop.

Since then, not only critics and audiences have praised the film, which now has a solid 76% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, but also the cast.

Netflix’s New Sci-Fi Show Was Actually Inspired by This Major 00s Flop - image 2

This movie could have been a huge break for everyone involved in its creation, but it failed miserably due to a lack of proper promotion. It is great to know that its legacy will live on through David Benioff and D.B. Weiss' series.

If you're interested in checking out 3 Body Problem, the new Netflix sci-fi series, be sure to tune in to the streamer on March 21, 2024.

Source: GamesRadar