Vince Gilligan’s ‘Pluribus’ Launches Apple TV’s Next Big Bet

The highly anticipated drama series Pluribus, created by Vince Gilligan, is set to debut on November 7, 2023, exclusively on Apple TV. This new show promises a blend of science fiction and philosophy, exploring the implications of a world where humanity achieves perfect happiness, yet one woman resists this utopian existence. Early previews have highlighted Gilligan’s return to television following his acclaimed work on Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.

Filmed in and around Albuquerque, New Mexico, Pluribus is described as an ambitious mix of a mystery and an exploration of free will in a seemingly conflict-free world. It follows the character Carol, portrayed by Rhea Seehorn, who becomes the sole individual unable to embrace the newfound happiness that envelops humanity after a mysterious signal from space. The show has been characterized by The New York Times as a “vision of a tedious utopia,” provoking thoughts on the nature of happiness and the human experience.

Apple’s Ambitious Commitment to Storytelling

Apple’s decision to order two seasons of Pluribus prior to its premiere underscores its commitment to high-quality storytelling, especially as many competitors in the industry are tightening budgets. While the exact production costs have not been disclosed, the scale of the project is notable, featuring elaborate sets and a fully constructed suburban neighborhood, indicating a significant financial investment from Apple.

Gilligan has developed this series under his long-term partnership with Sony Pictures Television. His choice to film in Albuquerque, a city that has become synonymous with his earlier successes, allows for a continuity of crew and resources that have defined his previous projects. The production’s impact on local employment and the economy has been substantial, with earlier shows like Breaking Bad generating over $300 million for the region.

Creative Evolution and Artistic Vision

Gilligan’s return to original storytelling marks his first new series since Breaking Bad concluded in 2013. His previous projects have solidified his position as one of television’s remaining auteurs, especially as the landscape shifts towards more cost-effective productions. The New York Times noted Gilligan as one of the “last auteurs standing” during the current era of streaming.

In crafting Pluribus, Gilligan had Seehorn in mind from the beginning. He admired her performance as Kim Wexler in Better Call Saul and tailored the role of Carol specifically for her. This collaboration continues their artistic partnership, albeit with an intentional effort to differentiate the new character from her previous one. Changes in Seehorn’s appearance and the avoidance of recognizable locations from his earlier work reflect Gilligan’s desire to create a distinct narrative and visual identity for Pluribus.

Apple’s strategy of securing prominent creators like Gilligan reinforces its focus on premium content over sheer volume. The company has invested heavily in original programming while many competitors have scaled back their creative output. This approach not only highlights Apple’s commitment to storytelling but also positions it to attract viewers seeking depth and character-driven narratives.

As audiences prepare for the release of Pluribus, the central question remains: what happens when conflict and suffering disappear? The show aims to explore the unsettling nature of a perfect world and the inherent value of human emotion. Gilligan has previously expressed that dissatisfaction often fuels creativity, suggesting that Pluribus may delve into the complexities of human experience in a seemingly utopian environment.

With its ambitious scope and thought-provoking themes, Pluribus represents a significant moment for both Gilligan and Apple TV. As the series ventures into uncharted territory, the response from viewers will ultimately determine its place in the evolving landscape of prestige television. Apple appears confident that the unique storytelling and philosophical inquiries presented in Pluribus will resonate with audiences, inviting them to explore the nature of happiness and individuality in new and compelling ways.