Falling Skies (2011) is a post-apocalyptic science fiction television series created by Robert Rodat and executive produced by Steven Spielberg. The show, which aired on TNT, unfolds in a world where Earth has been invaded and devastated by an alien race. The story follows a group of survivors as they fight for humanity’s survival and struggle to rebuild their society in the face of overwhelming odds.

The series begins six months after the initial alien invasion, which decimated much of the world’s population and infrastructure. The invaders, known as “Skitters,” are multi-legged creatures that lead the alien forces on the ground. They are later revealed to be controlled by another alien species called the “Overlords” or “Espheni.” The aliens have also enslaved human children by attaching biomechanical harnesses to their spines, turning them into obedient soldiers for the alien army.

The central character is Tom Mason, portrayed by Noah Wyle, a former history professor who becomes the second-in-command of the 2nd Massachusetts Militia Regiment, a group of survivors fighting against the alien occupation. Tom’s knowledge of military history and tactics, along with his determination to protect his family, makes him a natural leader. His three sons—Hal, Ben, and Matt—are also central to the story, each coping with the war and the loss of their mother in different ways.

As the series progresses, the survivors discover that the Skitters were once another species that the Espheni enslaved and genetically modified. This revelation adds layers to the conflict, as it becomes clear that the Espheni are intent on subjugating all life forms they encounter. The human resistance grows more organized and gains new allies, including former Skitters who have broken free of Espheni control and other alien species also opposing the Espheni.

Falling Skies blends action, drama, and science fiction, exploring themes such as resistance, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit. The show delves into the dynamics of a society under siege, highlighting how people from diverse backgrounds come together in the face of a common enemy. The characters’ struggles with leadership, loss, and moral dilemmas provide a deeper emotional core to the series.

The show is also known for its impressive special effects, especially in depicting the alien creatures and the post-apocalyptic environment. The Skitters, Mechs (bipedal robots serving the aliens), and other extraterrestrial elements are brought to life through a combination of practical effects and CGI, contributing to the show’s immersive and often tense atmosphere.

Over its five-season run, Falling Skies received mixed to positive reviews, with particular praise for Noah Wyle’s performance, the show’s premise, and its blend of action and character-driven drama. However, some critics and viewers noted that the series occasionally struggled with pacing and consistency, particularly in its later seasons.

One of the strengths of Falling Skies is its focus on the human aspect of an alien invasion. While the show features plenty of action and sci-fi elements, it never loses sight of the personal stories of the characters, their relationships, and their efforts to maintain hope in seemingly hopeless circumstances.

In conclusion, Falling Skies (2011) is a compelling science fiction series that offers a fresh take on the alien invasion genre. With its mix of action, drama, and character-driven storytelling, the show explores the challenges of survival and resistance in a world devastated by extraterrestrial forces. Though it has its ups and downs, Falling Skies remains a notable entry in the sci-fi television landscape, especially for fans of post-apocalyptic narratives.