The First

Set in the near future, 'The First' chronicles the harrowing journey of the first manned mission to Mars. Led by ambitious astronaut Commander Tom Hagerty, the crew faces immense physical and psychological challenges as they navigate the complexities of space travel and the isolation of their mission. The series explores themes of sacrifice, human ambition, and the profound personal costs of pushing the boundaries of exploration.

The First received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who often praised its ambitious scope, high production values, and strong performances, particularly from Sean Penn. However, some critics found the pacing to be slow and the narrative lacking in emotional depth or clear direction, leading to a divided reception regarding its overall impact and storytelling effectiveness.

• Praised for its visual spectacle and Sean Penn's compelling performance.
• Criticized for slow pacing and a somewhat detached emotional core.
• The series offers a grounded and realistic depiction of a Mars mission.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the series' realistic portrayal of space travel and the challenges involved. Many found the ambition of the story engaging, though some viewers felt the plot meandered at times.

The series was filmed in various locations, including Spain, to stand in for Martian landscapes, utilizing advanced CGI and practical effects to create the alien environment.