Pluribus, Apple TV+'s sci fi series that just concluded its first season, is a clever take on the alien invasion theme, from Vince Gilligan of Better Call Saul fame. I enjoyed it, but wish the writers had consulted a scientist or two in creating the backdrop of genetics and cell and molecular biology.
The series honors Isaac Asimov's science fiction law of "change only one thing." An alien RNA virus infects people, robbing them of their individuality and their humanity as a "hive mind" forms across the planet, with the exception of thirteen individuals. But the writers demonize RNA (don't we have enough of that?) while conflating egg cells with stem cells.
Does accuracy really matter for plausibility in a sci-fi plot? I suspect I'm in the minority when I say yes, it does.
To continue reading, go to DNA Science, where this post first appeared.