The beloved science fiction series Dark Matter concluded after three seasons, with the last episode, “Nowhere To Go,” airing on August 25, 2017. Despite critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, the show was abruptly cancelled by Syfy, leaving many plot threads unresolved and viewers yearning for more.
The Final Broadcast: “Nowhere To Go”
The final episode of Dark Matter, ironically titled “Nowhere To Go,” served as the season 3 finale. It aired on August 25, 2017, and brought the core narrative arc to a dramatic, albeit incomplete, conclusion. The episode focused on the Android’s evolving consciousness, the escalating corporate war, and the increasing threat of the Raza crew facing overwhelming odds. While the episode delivered on action and suspense, it ultimately ended on a cliffhanger, leaving the characters’ fates uncertain and the overall storyline unresolved. This abrupt ending fueled the disappointment and frustration surrounding the show’s cancellation.
The Premature Cancellation: A Sci-Fi Loss
The cancellation of Dark Matter was a significant blow to the science fiction community. The show had carved out a niche for itself with its complex characters, intriguing plotlines, and impressive visual effects, particularly given its relatively modest budget. The reasons for the cancellation remain somewhat opaque, with speculation ranging from budgetary constraints to shifting network priorities. Whatever the precise cause, the loss of Dark Matter underscored the volatile nature of television production and the often-unpredictable fate of even critically acclaimed series. Fans rallied in an attempt to save the show, but their efforts were ultimately unsuccessful.
Unanswered Questions and Lingering Mysteries
The show’s cancellation left a multitude of storylines dangling and character arcs unfulfilled. The fate of the Raza crew, the resolution of the corporate war, and the full extent of the Android’s evolving sentience were just a few of the plot points left hanging. The cliffhanger ending of “Nowhere To Go” only amplified the frustration, leaving viewers wondering about the future of their favorite characters and the ultimate outcome of the overarching narrative. These unresolved mysteries continue to fuel fan discussions and speculation years after the show’s conclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dark Matter
H3 FAQ 1: What exactly happened in the last episode of Dark Matter?
The final episode, “Nowhere To Go,” saw the Raza crew attempt to prevent a devastating attack by the Galactic Authority on a rebel colony. The Android, struggling with her evolving consciousness and the virus affecting her memory, plays a crucial role. The episode culminates in the Raza being ambushed, with the crew seemingly apprehended and their memories potentially erased. The episode ends with the Android waking up in a lab, her memories seemingly wiped, creating a significant cliffhanger.
H3 FAQ 2: Why was Dark Matter cancelled after only three seasons?
The exact reasons for the cancellation are not publicly available. However, speculation includes low ratings compared to Syfy’s target audience, budgetary constraints, and changes in network strategy. Despite a loyal fanbase, the show may not have been performing as well as the network hoped in terms of viewership numbers and advertising revenue.
H3 FAQ 3: Was there ever a chance for Dark Matter to be revived?
Following the cancellation, there was a significant fan campaign to revive the show, with attempts to get other networks or streaming services interested. Showrunner Joseph Mallozzi actively engaged with fans and explored potential avenues for revival. However, despite these efforts, no concrete deal ever materialized. The complexity of acquiring the rights and the costs associated with restarting production likely presented significant obstacles.
H3 FAQ 4: Did the showrunner, Joseph Mallozzi, ever reveal what his plans were for season 4?
Yes, Joseph Mallozzi has shared numerous details about his plans for season 4 through his blog and social media. He revealed storylines involving alternate realities, the return of previously deceased characters in different forms, and further exploration of the corporate war. He even outlined some of the major plot points for the first few episodes of the unproduced season.
H3 FAQ 5: Who were the main characters in Dark Matter?
The main characters included:
- Marcus Boone/One (portrayed by Marc Bendavid/Anthony Lemke): A highly skilled individual with a mysterious past.
- Portia Lin/Two (portrayed by Melissa O’Neil): The leader of the Raza crew, possessing exceptional combat skills and a strong sense of justice.
- Derrek/Three (portrayed by Anthony Lemke): A hardened mercenary with a gruff exterior but a hidden moral compass.
- Ryo Ishida/Four (portrayed by Alex Mallari Jr.): A skilled swordsman and heir to a powerful galactic empire.
- Griffin Jones/Five (portrayed by Jodelle Ferland): A young woman with a unique ability to access and interpret data.
- The Android (portrayed by Zoie Palmer): An advanced android with a developing personality and a complex relationship with the crew.
H3 FAQ 6: What was the overall plot of Dark Matter about?
The overarching narrative revolved around the amnesiac crew of the starship Raza as they attempted to uncover their pasts and navigate the treacherous political landscape of a galaxy on the brink of corporate war. The crew grappled with moral dilemmas, faced powerful enemies, and formed unlikely alliances as they fought for survival and sought redemption.
H3 FAQ 7: What are some similar science fiction shows to Dark Matter?
Fans of Dark Matter might enjoy shows with similar themes, such as:
- Firefly: A space western with a focus on a ragtag crew.
- Killjoys: A bounty hunter trio navigating a complex planetary system.
- Stargate SG-1: A team exploring the galaxy through a network of ancient portals.
- Farscape: An astronaut transported to a distant galaxy and joining a living spaceship.
- The Expanse: A hard science fiction series about political intrigue and human survival in the solar system.
H3 FAQ 8: Where can I watch Dark Matter?
Availability varies by region and streaming platform. You can often find it available for purchase or rent on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play Movies. It is also worth checking local streaming services in your region.
H3 FAQ 9: Who created Dark Matter?
Dark Matter was created by Joseph Mallozzi and Paul Mullie, both of whom were writers and producers for the Stargate franchise. Their experience in science fiction television was evident in the show’s well-developed universe and compelling characters.
H3 FAQ 10: Was Dark Matter based on a comic book?
Yes, Dark Matter was originally a comic book series created by Joseph Mallozzi and Paul Mullie before being adapted into a television show. The comic book series served as the foundation for the show’s world-building, character development, and overall plot.
H3 FAQ 11: What were the main factions or corporations fighting in Dark Matter?
The series featured several powerful corporations vying for control of resources and territories, including:
- Ferrous Corp: A powerful and ruthless corporation with a vast military force.
- Traugott Corp: A corporation known for its technological advancements and scientific research.
- Raza Corp: A corporation with a focus on logistics and trade.
- Volkov-Rusi: Another major power within the corporate war
These corporations often engaged in espionage, sabotage, and outright warfare in their pursuit of dominance.
H3 FAQ 12: What was so special about the Android in Dark Matter?
The Android was a uniquely compelling character due to her gradual development of personality and emotions. She evolved from a strictly logical machine to a complex individual capable of empathy, loyalty, and even love. Her journey of self-discovery was a central theme of the series, and her struggles with her identity resonated with viewers. Furthermore, her advanced capabilities and combat skills made her a valuable member of the Raza crew.