Watch FutureStates

FutureStates was a unique television series that aired on PBS Video from 2010 to 2014. The show, which was produced by ITVS (Independent Television Service), featured an anthology of science fiction stories that explored a wide range of societal, cultural, and environmental issues. Each episode was set in a different world, time period or alternate reality, and presented a glimpse into what the future could hold.

One of the most notable aspects of the show was its diversity, both in terms of the characters and the creative team behind it. FutureStates featured a cast and crew that were predominantly made up of people of color, women, and other underrepresented groups in the entertainment industry. Its stories were often based on the perspectives and experiences of marginalized communities, offering a fresh take on the science fiction genre.

The show tackled a range of important themes throughout its run, including immigration, climate change, social justice, and technological advancements. One episode, titled "Able Being," imagined a world in which people with disabilities were the dominant class, while able-bodied individuals were discriminated against. The episode explored complex questions around identity, power, and privilege.

Another episode, "The Other Side," took place in a future where the United States had been split in two, and citizens of the East and West Coasts were unable to travel between the two sides. The story followed two strangers, one from each coast, who met online and formed a connection despite the geographical divide. The episode explored themes of isolation, communication, and the impact of technology on human relationships.

Many of the episodes in FutureStates were set in dystopian or post-apocalyptic societies, offering dark visions of what could happen if we fail to address the pressing social and environmental issues of our time. One episode, titled "The Rise," portrayed a future in which the global population had been decimated by a virus, leaving only a handful of survivors who were struggling to rebuild society. The episode explored themes of grief, trauma, and resilience in the face of catastrophe.

Despite the often-grim subject matter, FutureStates was ultimately a hopeful show, offering glimpses of a brighter future in which we had successfully addressed the challenges of the present. One particularly uplifting episode, "City of Memories," imagined a world in which people could upload their consciousness into a virtual city after they died, allowing them to continue to experience life even after their physical bodies had passed away. The episode explored themes of legacy, memory, and the meaning of life.

Overall, FutureStates was a groundbreaking show that pushed the boundaries of what science fiction could be. With its diverse cast and crew, thought-provoking themes, and imaginative storytelling, it offered viewers a glimpse into myriad possible futures, each with its own unique challenges and opportunities. Despite its relatively short run, the show left a lasting impact on the genre and continues to be a cult favorite among fans of science fiction today.