'Foundation' season 2 is 'breathtaking'!

The Apple TV+ sci-fi space opera is back and better than ever.

Author

Leander Kahney
July 14, 2023

I had high hopes for Foundation, Apple TV+’s premier sci-fi drama, but ultimately I was disappointed by season one.

I loved certain things: mostly, Lee Pace’s extraordinary turn as the main villain, plus the great set design and effects.

But I was sorely disappointed by a lot of it.

As it dragged on, I started hoping half the main cast would get killed off, and wondering why Jared Harris — who is always great — was billed as a main player but was largely absent from the first season.

Now Foundation season two is upon us, and in the last few days I’ve seen several tweets and blog posts about how great the opener is.

Our own Apple TV+ critic, Scout Tafoya, concurs — he LOVED the opening episode.

The first installment is “just breathtaking,” he writes. “From shot design to performance to pacing, it’s a relentlessly pretty, terribly exciting space opera with all the personality it needs. Welcome back, Foundation.“

Time to fire up the old Apple TV!

Also in today’s newsletter:

— Leander Kahney, EIC.

‘Foundation’ season 2 opener will floor you [Apple TV+ recap] ★★★★½

Epic series "Foundation," based on Asimov's sci-fi novels, returns to Apple TV+ for a second season. A recap of "In Seldon's Shadow.”

Sweet deals on Mac, iPad and Apple accessories linger after Prime Day

Although Amazon’s big event is over, you have not missed your chance to save money on iPad, MacBook or AirPods.

3 cool new wallpapers you won’t regret downloading

Basic Apple Guy's latest wallpapers for iPhone, Mac and iPad include an ode to Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks" and a trip around the sun.

A message from the Cult of Mac Deals team

🚨 Ends tonight! 🚨 Instantly analyze more than 30,000 stocks with this easy-to-use app

Not every stock delivers like AAPL. Use the Tykr stock screener to quickly and easily weigh investments and make money the smart way.

Grab iPad mini 6 for 20% off in this amazing deal

Apple's latest tiny tablet drops to almost the same price as on Prime Day with this great sale.

‘Ridiculous Fishing EX’ offers way more explosions than you might expect

Fishing is a sport that requires patience. “Ridiculous Fishing EX” is a game that requires guns, chainsaws and toasters.

A message from CdkeySales

Summer Sale's hot deals include Windows 10 Pro for $16

At CdkeySales.com, you'll find low prices on Windows, Microsoft Office and more. Enter promo code CULT to save an extra 30%.

Jace takes one for the team this week on ‘Swagger’ [Apple TV+ recaps] ★★★★½

Superlative Apple TV basketball drama “Swagger” puts Jace in the hot seat this week, as allegations prove too tough to beat.

Nod your head at the emoji coming in 2024

The list of likely new emoji includes a phoenix, a breaking chain, a lime and a person nodding or shaking their head.

Today in Apple history: Revolutionary MP3 format gets its name

On July 14, 1995, the MP3 file format received its name as the new .bit file extension changed to .mp3. It enabled the iPod's success.

Versatile Mac mini powers DIY workstation [Setups]

Like so many users, the DIYer behind today's setup gets by just fine with a Mac mini. He built a desk and shelf for it and great peripherals.

Tweetz o’ the day

One more thing ...

❝

Do you want to spend the rest of your life selling sugared water, or do you want a chance to change the world?

— Steve Jobs to John Sculley, 1983.

Today’s poll

Are you watching 'Foundation'? What do you think?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

Results from yesterday’s poll: Do you immediately install Apple’s betas on your main devices?

Best reader comments

Subscribe to The Weekender — Get the week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.

Reply

or to participate.