Almost Human

Synopsis:
Almost Human is a science-fiction crime drama set in a dystopian future where human police officers are paired with android partners. Detective John Kennex (Karl Urban) is reactivated after a two-year coma and paired with a highly advanced android model named Dorian (Michael Ealy). Together, they solve cases involving cybernetically enhanced criminals, rogue androids, and the underground black market dealing in illegal technology. As they work together, they also explore the nature of humanity, free will, and the definition of life.

Cast:
– Karl Urban as Detective John Kennex
– Michael Ealy as Dorian
– Minka Kelly as Detective Valerie Stahl
– Mackenzie Crook as Rudy Lom
– Michael Irby as Detective Richard Paul
– Lili Taylor as Captain Sandra Maldonado

Details:
First episode broadcast date: November 17, 2013
Final episode broadcast date: March 3, 2014
Total number of seasons: 1
Total number of episodes: 13

Overview:
Almost Human is a unique sci-fi crime drama that blends elements of action, mystery, and philosophy. Set in a futuristic Los Angeles of 2048, the show explores a world where police officers are equipped with robotic partners to fight crime. But the heart of the show lies in the dynamic between Detective Kennex and his android partner, Dorian.

Karl Urban delivers a solid performance as the gruff, tortured Kennex. He is a complex character, haunted by the traumas of his past and struggling to come to terms with his new reality after his coma. Michael Ealy shines as Dorian, a highly advanced android that is designed to be more emotive and empathic than the typical robot. He brings a lot of humor, heart, and humanity to the role, and his chemistry with Urban is palpable.

The supporting cast is also strong, with Mackenzie Crook providing a lot of the show’s comic relief and Minka Kelly adding a touch of romance as Kennex’s former girlfriend and fellow detective. Lili Taylor does a great job as their boss, Captain Maldonado, who has to navigate the often volatile relationship between Kennex and Dorian while dealing with the bureaucracy and politics of the police department.

The writing is top-notch, with each episode offering a self-contained case that also advances the larger mythology and character arcs. The show tackles themes such as artificial intelligence, identity, and morality, but does so in a way that doesn’t feel heavy-handed or preachy. There are also plenty of thrilling action scenes, gunfights, and chases to keep the adrenaline flowing.

One of the show’s strengths is its world-building. The production design, cinematography, and visual effects all contribute to creating a vivid, immersive portrayal of a dystopian future. From the neon-lit streets to the high-tech gadgets to the creepy underground labs, the show presents a fully realized world that feels both futuristic and grounded in reality.

Unfortunately, Almost Human only lasted one season, leaving fans disappointed and craving for more. While it’s unclear why the show was canceled, some speculate that it may have been due to network interference or a lack of promotion. Whatever the reason, the show remains a cult favorite and a great example of what science-fiction can do when it combines genre thrills with philosophical depth.