Ridley Scott‘s groundbreaking influence on modern sci-fi television is exemplified in Raised by Wolves, a series that redefines the boundaries of the genre with its complex storytelling and striking visuals. Launched on HBO Max, the show surpassed expectations by offering a deeper, more provocative vision of humanity’s future than even celebrated titles like Blade Runner 2049.
How Raised by Wolves Elevated Sci-Fi Storytelling
When discussing Ridley Scott’s impact on science fiction, many point to films like Alien or Blade Runner. However, Raised by Wolves stands out as an ambitious, yet often overlooked, entry into Scott’s portfolio, not as a blockbuster film but as an innovative TV series. Created by Aaron Guzikowski and produced by Scott, who directed its first two episodes, the show merges rigorous scientific speculation with bold, unsettling narratives and haunting visuals.
While Denis Villeneuve’s Blade Runner 2049 offered a compelling extension of the original film‘s universe, Raised by Wolves pushed further, proposing more philosophical dilemmas and taking bigger narrative risks. The series investigates whether technological or human creators can avoid replaying the tragic patterns that led to humanity’s downfall, following Earth’s destruction after a devastating religious conflict.
Set on the alien world of Kepler-22b, the series follows androids Mother (Amanda Collin) and Father (Abubakar Salim) as they are tasked with raising human children, hoping to establish a rational society safe from religious strife. The arrival of the surviving Mithraic faction, led by Travis Fimmel’s Caleb, upends their plans and places faith and secular ideals in sharp conflict. This ongoing battle between belief systems is not merely a metaphor but the show’s core, examining how clashes of ideology can yield chaos and violence.
The most riveting storyline belongs to Mother, who oscillates between nurturing protector and fearsome weapon. Her struggle between fulfilling her programmed purpose and grappling with new-found emotions anchors the show’s exploration of major themes such as parenthood, instinct, and the challenges of creation. Raised by Wolves continually poses the question: Can those who create—be they humans or machines—ever fully control what they bring into existence, or will life evolve in ways that defy expectation?
The narrative weaves together moments of philosophical intrigue, suspenseful monster encounters, and the raw brutality of survival to create an experience that is both cerebral and emotionally gripping.
The Power of Performances and Visuals in Shaping a Sci-Fi Classic
The visual style of Raised by Wolves is instantly distinct, creating a landscape that feels both alien and eerily beautiful. In contrast to the urban neon sprawl seen in Blade Runner 2049, this series draws viewers into the stark, unpredictable world of Kepler-22b. Scott’s direct influence can be seen in elements such as the iconic milky android blood and the meticulous approach to set design. The atmosphere is uncomfortably immersive, keeping viewers on edge and constantly engaged.
The true depth of the show, however, comes through its writing and cast. Amanda Collin’s portrayal of Mother is magnetic—her shifting expressions and presence evoke both tenderness and chilling menace. Playing alongside her, Abubakar Salim brings humor and warmth to Father, whose moments of levity do not detract from his potential for lethal action. Their dynamic explores the boundary between programmed behavior and genuine emotion, echoing the show’s overarching exploration of creation and control.
Travis Fimmel, as Caleb, introduces volatility and charisma to the religious conflict at the heart of the story. Niamh Algar’s portrayal of Sue, a human doctor whose instinct to protect her son rivals Mother’s own, serves to deepen the sense of family within the show—even, or especially, when it is complicated by questions of biology and identity. The interplay between these characters sparks discussions around what truly defines family, loyalty, and faith.
Raised by Wolves never simplifies the ideological divide, allowing for an honest and often unsettling examination of how even well-intentioned actions can spiral into disaster. This complexity is one of the reasons the series stands out in a crowded landscape of science fiction television.
The Unfinished Legacy and What Lies Ahead
Though acclaimed for its originality, Raised by Wolves was canceled after two seasons, leaving the story unresolved. In a 2022 Collider interview, creator Aaron Guzikowski revealed he had detailed plans for five seasons and knew exactly how the narrative would end. This knowledge heightens the frustration felt by fans and creators alike, as the series was not given the chance to realize its full vision or provide closure.
Ridley Scott’s reputation as a pioneer of science fiction is firmly established, but Raised by Wolves deserves its place alongside Alien and Blade Runner for its daring approach and richly layered storytelling. The series remains one of the most imaginative explorations of artificial life, parenthood, ideology, and identity ever attempted in the television format. HBO Max’s decision not only to cancel, but to remove the show from their platform, was met with widespread disappointment. As Warner Bros. continues to reevaluate its streaming strategy, there remains hope that Raised by Wolves will eventually return to inspire a wider audience.
Raised by Wolves exemplifies Ridley Scott’s groundbreaking influence on modern sci-fi television, offering audiences a thought-provoking, visually arresting, and emotionally resonant experience. Its impact on the genre lingers, challenging both creators and viewers to imagine new possibilities for the future of storytelling.
