Skarsgård’s Performance Praised, Apple TV+ Series Tone and Pacing Criticized

Praise is pouring in for Alexander Skarsgård’s portrayal of a brooding cyborg in Murderbot, the latest sci-fi comedy series on Apple TV+. Based on Martha Wells’ award-winning Murderbot Diaries novels, the show, created by Chris Weitz and Paul Weitz, is set in a futuristic world where security androids protect humans. At the heart of the story is Murderbot, an android who has broken free from its programming and now prefers TV marathons to human interaction.

While some critics, like Daniel Fienberg from The Hollywood Reporter, had initial reservations about Skarsgård’s interpretation of the character, they eventually found themselves appreciating his performance after watching the series. However, there are mixed reviews about the show’s tone and world-building, with some feeling that the pacing could be improved.

Despite criticisms about the show’s pacing and tone, Kristen Baldwin from Entertainment Weekly acknowledges the series’ humor, talented cast, and high production values. She notes that the slow start pays off with a moving finale that rewards viewers who stick with it.

Overall, reviewers like Carly Lane at Collider and Erik Kain at Forbes agree that Skarsgård’s performance as Murderbot is a standout. Lane praises Skarsgård for immediately drawing viewers into Murderbot’s adventures, while Kain describes the actor’s portrayal as consistently hilarious.

Murderbot is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on May 16th, offering viewers a chance to see Skarsgård’s performance for themselves.