Ascension (2014) | How Woke Is It?

Our VerdictMildly Woke

45%

Ascension2014

In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected speech. These reviews reflect personal opinions and not statements of fact.

What We Think

Ascension sprinkles in some progressive elements, but largely sticks to genre storytelling and genuine character drama. For a modern sci-fi miniseries, it's surprisingly moderate in its approach to so-called 'woke' tropes. Not perfect, but far from the most egregious offender of the decade.

Score Breakdown

Compromised:Narrative Integrity

Woke

What is this?

Ascension features some modern representation and progressive themes, but its core story focuses on class, mystery, and human ambition rather than heavy-handed ideology. Most casting decisions feel appropriate to the mid-century setting, though a few boundaries are nudged for diverse appeal, without derailing plot or tension.

Compromised:Cultural Foundations

Woke

What is this?

The show presents themes like traditional family structure and gender roles under a sci-fi microscope, but mostly as a commentary on 1960s America. While some elements are modernized, there isn't an obvious agenda to undermine religion or masculinity; instead, they're used to highlight social changes over time.

Compromised:Ideological Monoculture

Woke

What is this?

Ascension brings up social issues, but it tends to weave in conflicting worldviews and debates among its characters. While there are some critiques of old-school authority, the show avoids constant villainization of traditional perspectives, and doesn't enforce strict ideological uniformity throughout its cast.

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Disclaimer: In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected as a form of free speech and freedom of expression. The reviews and commentary on this site represent personal opinions and interpretations. They are not statements of fact and should not be taken as factual claims about any individual, company, or creative work.