This Overlooked Show With 'House of the Dragon' Star Is One of the Most Unique Sci-Fi TV Series

Following Ex Machina and Annihilation, Alex Garland has solidified his status as one of the most prominent directors in sci-fi. His only TV project, Devs, is a magnum opus and a masterpiece that embodies all his signature moves.

While Devs tackles complex subjects with excessive complexity and wastes itself on drawn-out dialogue, it's still an incredibly compelling show, offering something valuable with each viewing.

What Is 'Devs' About?

Sergei and Lily both work at Amaya, a thriving IT company whose office is located in the middle of a dense pine forest. Lily works in the encryption department, and Sergei develops AI.

One morning, the company owner, Forest, makes Sergei an unexpected offer – he's promoting Sergei to a top-secret department where even his closest colleagues are forbidden to tell each other what they're developing.

The project shocks Sergei so much that, on his first evening, he tries to break the rule by taking classified data with him and disappears without a trace before reaching home. Two days later, Forest shows Lily a video of her lover setting himself on fire at the office entrance.

'Devs' Fearlessly Delves Into Complex and Confusing Topics While Remaining Gripping

Devs is a series that isn't afraid to ask difficult questions. Over the course of eight hour-long episodes, Garland invites viewers to reflect on God, free will, and the predetermination of human destinies.

The miniseries spins intrigue around the paradox of determinism and explores topics that science fiction has sidelined in recent years as too monumental and hackneyed.

Garland served as director, screenwriter, and executive producer, allowing him to retain complete control over the artistic vision.

That's why Devs features Garland's signature big-screen techniques, including escalating anxiety, philosophical and religious contexts, and a unique aesthetic in which science is likened to magic.

'Devs' Is the Perfect Example of Alex Garland's Unique Style

Devs is often described as arrogantly intellectual, but its unique aesthetic is hard to resist. Amaya's office is nestled in a pine forest, and the building itself is a monumental architectural structure.

This visual style creates the feeling that you are not at an IT corporation, but rather in a secret temple dedicated to a new religion – technology.

Filmed in Garland's signature style, the show features long, meditative takes, a muted color palette, and sound design that heightens the sense of unease.

If you enjoy intelligent science fiction and are interested in questions of determinism and free will, Devs is the perfect choice for you.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Devs'?

• Devs has 82% from critics and 77% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the series has a score of 7.6/10.

Where to Watch 'Devs'?

Devs is available to stream on Hulu and Disney+.