HBO’s Near-Perfect 12-Episode Sci-Fi Masterpiece Is the Perfect Weekend Binge Before It Exits Netfl

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Netflix's roster of original television shows is packed to the brim with plenty of iconic science fiction series. In addition to breakout hit Stranger Things, Netflix subscribers can also check out new series The Boroughs, which is produced by Stranger Things creators Ross & Matt Duffer, or a cult classic like Stargate SG-1. Among these sci-fi series, there's a more recent one in Netflix's library that is a true modern masterpiece in the genre. That series is the truly excellent Scavengers Reign, which follows the crew of a damaged spaceship as they struggle to survive on an alien world.

Scavengers Reign didn't start out on Netflix; it was an original series created for HBO Max. Before that, series creators Joseph Bennett and Charles Huettner originally developed Scavengers Reign as an animated short that drew attention for its gorgeous animation and lack of dialogue. The result led HBO Max to pick it up as a series, and it grew a small but dedicated fanbase during its run. Though it only lasted a single season, Scavengers Reign remains an incredible work of science fiction, and Netflix viewers have until May 31 to check it out.

'Scavengers Reign' Is a Masterclass in Animation & Science Fiction Storytelling

Watching Scavengers Reign is the chance to get lost in a gorgeously animated science fiction world. The planet Vesta, where the survivors crash-landed, is chock-full of vibrant vegetation and lush landscapes that draw the viewers' attention. Yet despite its beauty, Vesta is chock-full of danger. Storms rain down razor-sharp diamonds. Strange creatures lurk in the forests, including beasts who infect their victims' minds with telepathic visions. Even the vegetation proves to be lethal. Such gorgeous and disturbing visuals come courtesy of Titmouse Animation, who've brought iconic series like The Legend of Vox Machina and Star Trek: Lower Decks to life.

Scavengers Reign also boasts an incredible voice cast that includes Sunita Mani, Wunmi Mosaku, and Alia Shawkat. They bring a collection of unique characters to life, especially in Shawkat's case, as she's portraying the robot Levi and the wife of crew member Kamen (Ted Travelstead). Levi ends up transforming into an entirely new being throughout Scavengers Reign's run, as she's infected with a strange yellow goo that interferes with her programming and causes her to investigate Vesta's flora. While the idea of a machine gaining sentience is not a new concept in science fiction, Scavengers Reign takes a fresh approach to it that fans old and new will be enthralled by.

'Scavengers Reign' Only Lasted a Single Season

When Scavengers Reign premiered, it received an overwhelmingly positive critical reception for its unique animation style, breathtaking yet disturbing visuals, andcompelling story. It also carries a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, making it stand out from other science fiction shows released in the 2020s. Despite all this praise, Scavengers Reign was canceled after a single season, leaving its fans shocked and saddened. Netflix eventually picked up the rights to broadcast Scavengers Reign, which led fans to hope the streamer would renew it for additional episodes. After all, it would hardly be the first time that Netflix managed to renew a beloved series after it was canceled on another channel or network. Joe Bennett said there were no plans for a second season, though he was more than willing to revisit Scavengers Reign in the future.

"There is more story to be told...we are ready to make another season."

While Scavengers Reign is leaving Netflix, this isn't the end of its story. It will still be available to stream on HBO Max, and given that it's garnered a dedicated fan base in addition to critical praise, perhaps the powers that be at Max will reconsider giving it a second season. Whether there are more episodes in its future or it's destined to remain a single-season wonder, Scavengers Reign remains a masterwork of science fiction that should be on the radar of all genre fans.