Review of Netflix’s Limitless: A Smart Sci-Fi Series That Captivates

As someone with a high IQ, I recently dove into the television series Limitless, which is now available on Netflix. While I’m a little late to the party, I felt compelled to share my thoughts on this unique and engaging series. Let’s explore the differences between the show and the movie, dive into the story, and discuss its strengths and weaknesses.

The Differences: From Movie to Show

The original film, starring Bradley Cooper and released in 2011, introduced the concept of NZT, a drug that boosts the user’s cognitive abilities to extraordinary levels. It provided unparalleled access to knowledge and the potential to achieve anything a person sets their mind to. The movie culminates with Cooper’s character choosing to run for office while still under the effects of the drug, highlighting the inherent risks and benefits of its use.

When Limitless became a TV series, it took a different turn. The show smartly merged crime procedural drama with elements from the film, including the super intelligence aspect of NZT. However, it also introduced several limitations to the drug to make it more credible and relatable. NZT is now brutal on the body, even a few pills can start to kill a user, and the withdrawals are immense. Senator Edward Mora, the character who introduced this artificially created intelligence, eventually developed a treatment—a simple shot—that prevents users from experiencing these negative effects beyond a limited window of 24 hours.

Key Setting and Plot

оро Limitless follows Brian Finch, a former musician turned special agent. Like the film’s protagonist, he was initially introduced as a loser but was quickly transformed by the drug into an extraordinary individual. Flourishing on NZT, he found his true calling in solving difficult cases as a special agent with the FBI. However, he is bound to use his increased intelligence for Senator Mora's interests in exchange for the treatment that keeps his life functional.

This setup creates a compelling dynamic where Finch is essentially a double agent. He works for the FBI to solve cases but must at the same time, serve the Senator's interests. This relationship is further complicated by the ongoing search for a mysterious criminal and the potential resurgence of NZT's toxic effects.

The Show in Detail

Starting with a strong pilot episode, the series is consistently engaging and well-written. The show excels in building a character-driven narrative that focuses on Finch's transition and the unique way his intellect impacts his work. Despite the initial struggles, Finch's character evolves into someone who values empathy and justice. His interactions with Rebecca Harris, the FBI’s handler, are a highlight of the series, portraying a deep bond between colleagues while maintaining professionalism and respect.

One of the show’s best aspects is the lack of romantic subplots between characters. Instead, they are united by a shared commitment to justice and a deep friendship built on mutual respect. This distinguishes the series from many others and makes the relationships feel authentic and refreshing.

The Show's Weaknesses

While the series is generally well-liked, there are a couple of areas where it could have improved. The show tends to delve into ‘super’ plotlines, such as the presence of a looming ‘Big Bad.’ While these elements add excitement and suspense, they can sometimes detract from the core stories. Similarly, the character of Senator Edward Mora's true intentions are not clear until the end, making the audience feel slightly misled. However, the show excels in moments where Finch and Rebecca work together to solve complex cases, making these plot holes a slight inconvenience rather than a deal-breaker.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you enjoy crime procedural dramas with a touch of light science fiction and can handle a bit of a rollercoaster ride, Limitless is definitely worth watching. The Netflix series is a thought-provoking and compelling take on the NZT concept first introduced in the film. With great characters, a solid storyline, and some engaging episodes, it stands out among other similar shows. If you can catch it, definitely give it a watch, especially the pilot episode, which I have re-watched several times. It’s rare to find such a well-executed series that balances intellect, action, and heart.