10 Most Visually Stunning Episodes Of The Expanse

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The Expanse, a top-tier space opera series, is set primarily within constrained studio sets, reducing the demand for elaborate visual effects. Despite this limitation, it maintains the traditional sci-fi TV aesthetic with numerous shuddering control panels on spaceships and flashing warning lights to signal peril. However, when required, it never failed to impress with its use of special effects. This was consistent throughout its initial three seasons on Syfy and subsequent three seasons on Amazon Prime Video – although the larger budget certainly enhanced the portrayal of the galaxy. In retrospect, the show’s impressive visual moments are scattered consistently across its duration, and there are more standout scenes to appreciate than one might remember.

The space opera series, “The Expanse,” penned by authors Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck under the collective pseudonym James S.A. Corey, was significantly inspired by televised science fiction from its inception. Notably, the primary character Captain James Holden bears a namesake connection to Star Trek’s Captain James T. Kirk. Upon transitioning to television, these influences could have posed a risk of appearing formulaic and derivative. However, the series managed to carve out its unique identity by forging new paths and challenging established boundaries rather than simply following a familiar formula.

What stands out most about its legacy is when a significant narrative event was matched with an impressive VFX display. This series left fans intrigued as it touched upon almost every sci-fi subgenre, resulting in memorable moments spanning from dramatic star explosions to spine-chilling body horror lurking within air vents. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 visual spectacles found in The Expanse.

“Saeculum”

In Season 4 of The Expanse, the series seems more fantastical than ever as we spend a significant amount of time on the alien planet Ilus. The blend of petty human disputes and mind-boggling scientific discoveries keeps audiences captivated throughout, but Episode 9 truly shines. This episode features two interwoven narratives that culminate brilliantly when Murtry (Burn Gorman) is vanquished simultaneously with the activation of alien artifacts. Additionally, Episode 9 boasts stunning shots of the Rocinante in orbit, complete with an unexpected space walk involving Lucia (Rosa Gilmore) and Naomi (Dominique Tipper).

“The Weeping Somnambulist”

As a movie critic, I must admit that “The Expanse” has earned its reputation for meticulously adhering to scientific principles, yet fear not if physics or rocketry aren’t your strong suit. Generally speaking, you can immerse yourself in the show without needing a degree in astrophysics. However, Season 2, Episode 9 takes things up a notch, with action unfolding simultaneously across the solar system, all centered around the moons of Jupiter – a test for even the most dedicated viewers. The show’s efforts to make sense of this cosmic ballet are nothing short of remarkable. Amidst it all, Cas Anvar’s Alex idles the Rocinante in stealthy hiding, while the crew attempts a daring heist on an alien station. Meanwhile, Shohreh Aghdashloo’s Avasarla struggles desperately to influence events from Earth.

“Leviathan Wakes”

As a movie enthusiast, let me tell you, this series deftly blends various sci-fi subgenres, and it’s quite surprising how the Season 1 finale leans more towards cyberpunk rather than space opera. But don’t be taken aback – even if you didn’t see it coming, this episode is a rollercoaster of emotions with its heart-wrenching and gory scenes. However, these elements are skillfully used to deepen the characters and their narratives. If you weren’t already cheering for Holden before, trust me, you will be by the time the cliffhanger leaves you hanging on the edge of your seat.

“Safe”

The upcoming episode continues with an equally compelling beginning. In the premiere of Season 2, we find ourselves on Mars alongside Sergeant Bobbie Draper (Frankie Adams), along with her fellow soldiers. This initial scene is awe-inspiring, made even more so by the actors’ convincing portrayal that it’s merely a routine drill. The scene earns extra praise because it deviates from the books; Bobbie’s backstory has been rearranged for television clarity, and this adaptation proves to be effective in this instance.

“Caliban’s War”

Moving directly to the Season 2 finale, the spotlight falls on the protomolecule, and it’s the Rocinante that’s in danger. This episode is particularly emotional as the team grapples with finding a method to eliminate the menace without endangering their leader, while Prax (Terry Chen) gets his chance to make a significant impact.

“Strange Dogs”

Generally, Season 6 often gets overshadowed in many reviews of The Expanse, but it’s hard to imagine a list without the intriguing introduction of the “strange dogs” of Laconia in the premiere. This episode was filled with a whirlwind of new characters, settings, and plot twists, yet it remained easy to follow and engaging. Simultaneously, the action within the Sol system never slows down, giving the impression that this series could continue indefinitely, as more and more characters win our affection, including Drummer (played by Cara Gee) and Filip (portrayed by Jasai Chase-Owens).

“Fight or Flight”

This character prefers peace over action, but watching Avasarla in the heat of battle is thrilling. However, the most exciting moment in this episode was when Bobbie returned to her power armor, and the climax came when she and Avasarla narrowly escaped on the notorious Razorback.

“Immolation”

It’s astonishing that “Immolation” isn’t a series premiere or finale, considering the numerous significant events it contains. The entire episode is intense, featuring a hostage rescue, protomolecule hybrids, and missile attacks in the belt. Despite all the chaos, when the ring structure emerges from Venus at the end, it feels like everything suddenly falls silent.

“Abaddon’s Gate”

Despite some fans lamenting that the action took place over only half a season, the thrilling finale compensates for this by resolving a catastrophic situation among stranded spaceships and presenting the Rocinante crew with an astounding sci-fi wonder. Notably, this new feat also brings another task that appears to be beyond their capabilities.

“Gaugamela”

In summary, The Expanse expands its range by incorporating the “disaster movie” genre in Season 5, Episode 4. The multiple character viewpoints woven throughout the narrative prove particularly rewarding, offering diverse vantage points as asteroids laden with destruction rain down on Earth. Furthermore, finding familiar characters stranded amidst the chaos intensifies the tension to its peak. Despite exploring cosmic terrors that defy understanding, this human-instigated catastrophe serves as the emotional core for most characters and viewers alike.

Currently, “The Expanse” series is streaming live on Amazon Prime Video, though it remains uncertain when new episodes might return. However, the books and novellas have already been published in paperback, e-book, and audio formats for those eager readers.

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2025-08-07 01:47