Caprica
Caprica, a highly regarded American science fiction television series, is a prequel to the reimagined Battlestar Galactica series. The show, which aired from January 2010 until January 2011, takes place 58 years before the catastrophic events of Battlestar Galactica. Set on the eponymous planet, Caprica explores the intertwining lives of two families - the Graystones and the Adamas. The series delves into the creation of the first Cylon - an artificial intelligence species that would later wage war against humanity. The themes of Caprica include technological advancement, ethical dilemmas, and the blurred line between life and artificial intelligence. Although it only lasted one season, Caprica remains a significant piece of science fiction television, offering a deep and complex exploration of society's relationship with technology. Its examination of humanity's ethical responsibilities in the face of technological progress continues to resonate with audiences today.
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Table of Contents
Air Dates
Awards
Broadcast Information
Cast and Actors
Characters
General Overview
Music
Origins
Reception
Related Media
Series Connection
Setting
Themes
Timeline
What is 'Caprica' about?
'Caprica' is a science fiction television series set in a future world. It explores the origins of the Cylons, artificial intelligence entities in the 'Battlestar Galactica' universe, focusing on two powerful families and their personal and ethical struggles.
Who created 'Caprica'?
'Caprica' was created by Remi Aubuchon and Ronald D. Moore. The series was developed as a prequel to 'Battlestar Galactica' and explored how artificial intelligence beings came to be.
Who are the main characters in 'Caprica'?
The main characters in 'Caprica' include Daniel Graystone, Zoe Graystone, Joseph Adama, and Amanda Graystone. Their lives interlink around the development of robotic Cylon entities and personal familial conflicts.
How is 'Caprica' connected to 'Battlestar Galactica'?
'Caprica' is a prequel to 'Battlestar Galactica,' exploring the events 58 years prior, emphasizing the creation of the Cylons and cultural, technological, and ethical tensions that set the backdrop for 'Battlestar Galactica.'
When did 'Caprica' first air on television?
‘Caprica’ first aired on the Syfy network on January 22, 2010. The show endeavored to attain the same viewership success as its predecessor 'Battlestar Galactica.'
Why was 'Caprica' canceled?
'Caprica' was canceled primarily due to low ratings and viewership. Despite its intricate storytelling and connection to 'Battlestar Galactica,' it struggled to amass a significant audience.
What year is 'Caprica' set in?
'Caprica' is set 58 years before the start of 'Battlestar Galactica,' in the year 58 BCH, detailing the societal and technological advancements leading to the colonial wars.
Who played Daniel Graystone in 'Caprica'?
Eric Stoltz played Daniel Graystone, a brilliant scientist and businessman who contributed to the creation of the Cylons, playing a pivotal role in the show's narrative.
What network aired 'Caprica'?
'Caprica' aired on the Syfy channel, a network known for its science fiction and fantasy programming, including its predecessor 'Battlestar Galactica.'
How many seasons of 'Caprica' are there?
'Caprica' consists of one season, spanning 18 episodes. The show was intended to continue but was canceled due to low ratings.
What themes are explored in 'Caprica'?
'Caprica' explores themes such as artificial intelligence, familial conflict, corporate power, morality, religion, and cultural identity in a technologically advanced society.
Where was 'Caprica' filmed?
'Caprica' was filmed in Vancouver, British Columbia, a popular location for many science fiction television shows due to its versatile cityscape and favorable filming conditions.
Who plays Zoe Graystone in 'Caprica'?
Alessandra Torresani portrayed Zoe Graystone, a key character who becomes central to the creation of Cylons, her consciousness transferred into a cybernetic body.
Is 'Caprica' based on a book?
'Caprica' is not based on a book but is an original science fiction series created as a prequel to the television series 'Battlestar Galactica.'
What is the significance of the Graystone family in 'Caprica'?
The Graystone family, central to 'Caprica,' represents technological innovation and ethical dilemmas. They are pivotal in creating Cylons and showcase personal and societal impacts of advanced technology.
Which composer worked on 'Caprica's music?
Bear McCreary composed the music for 'Caprica,' creating a rich and emotive score that complements the series' tone and emotional depth.
Was 'Caprica' nominated for any awards?
'Caprica' was nominated for several awards, including an Emmy for Outstanding Special Visual Effects and multiple nominations for television critics awards, recognizing its creativity and visual innovation.
How did 'Caprica' influence sci-fi television?
'Caprica' influenced sci-fi TV by delving deep into storytelling complexity and ethical tech scenarios, encouraging future series to explore these themes in speculative and innovative ways.
Are there any spin-offs from 'Caprica'?
While 'Caprica' itself is a spin-off, there are no direct spin-offs from 'Caprica,' but it expands the 'Battlestar Galactica' universe and sets narrative roots for its storytelling.
Does 'Caprica' conclude the storyline?
'Caprica' does not fully conclude its storylines due to its cancellation. Some plot arcs remain open, leaving the story partially unresolved and inviting viewer interpretation.
Who is Joseph Adama in 'Caprica'?
Joseph Adama, played by Esai Morales, is a lawyer and key character whose connections link directly to 'Battlestar Galactica,' being the father of William Adama.
How did 'Caprica' perform in ratings?
'Caprica' performed modestly in ratings, with viewership figures insufficient to sustain network interest, leading to its eventual cancellation despite a dedicated fanbase.
What is New Cap City in 'Caprica'?
New Cap City is a virtual reality game world in 'Caprica' where characters engage in digital interactions with existential stakes, reflecting themes of identity and reality.
What role does Amanda Graystone play in 'Caprica'?
Amanda Graystone, portrayed by Paula Malcomson, is Daniel Graystone's wife, who grapples with personal and ethical dilemmas throughout the series, significantly influencing the Graystone family's direction.
How are avatars used in 'Caprica'?
'Caprica' uses avatars as digital representations of characters, enabling exploration of virtual identity, consciousness transfer, and the impact on personal and social dynamics in a futuristic setting.
What role does religion play in 'Caprica'?
Religion in 'Caprica' shapes much of the societal conflict, exploring monotheistic and polytheistic beliefs, influencing characters' motivations and the broader cultural narratives.
Who is Vergis in 'Caprica'?
Tomas Vergis, played by John Pyper-Ferguson, is a rival business executive at odds with Daniel Graystone over corporate espionage and technology control, driving conflict within 'Caprica.'
What is the goal of the Soldiers of the One in 'Caprica'?
The Soldiers of the One is a monotheistic terrorist organization in 'Caprica' aiming to challenge the polytheistic societal norms and instigate radical change.
What focus does 'Caprica' have on artificial intelligence?
'Caprica' focuses on artificial intelligence's societal and ethical implications, particularly through the Cylons' development and their potential impacts on humanity.
How does 'Caprica' explore family dynamics?
'Caprica' explores familial bonds and conflicts, emphasizing the Graystones' and Adamas' struggles with personal loss, moral dilemmas, and technology's impact on relational dynamics.
What is the significance of the Adama family in 'Caprica'?
The Adama family in 'Caprica' is central, notably Joseph Adama, providing connections to 'Battlestar Galactica' through legal and ethical narratives impacting the colonial worlds.
How were visual effects used in 'Caprica'?
Visual effects in 'Caprica' were pivotal in creating immersive virtual environments like New Cap City, and distinctively showcasing the technological advancements of the period.
What role does Evelyn play in 'Caprica'?
Evelyn, played by Anna Galvin, is Joseph Adama's secretary and confidante, becoming a significant emotional support and advisor within the Adama family conflicts.
How many episodes are in 'Caprica's season?
There are 18 episodes in 'Caprica’s' sole season, combining character-driven narratives with intricate plotting typical of its sci-fi backdrop.
What is the backstory of Zoe Graystone in 'Caprica'?
Zoe Graystone is pivotal as the daughter of Daniel and Amanda Graystone. Her consciousness becomes central in the creation of the first Cylon prototype, driving central plot conflicts.
What type of society is depicted in 'Caprica'?
'Caprica' portrays a technologically advanced society where corporate, religious, and ethical concerns intersect, framing narratives around digital existence and its societal impacts.
What is the role of technology in 'Caprica'?
Technology in 'Caprica' is integral, underpinning its narrative with themes focused on AI, virtual realities, and bio-cyber interfaces challenging human identity and ethics.
Who is Lacy Rand in 'Caprica'?
Lacy Rand, played by Magda Apanowicz, is Zoe Graystone's best friend and becomes entangled in the series' religious and political upheavals throughout the storyline.
What influences are evident in 'Caprica's visual style?
'Caprica's' visual style is influenced by its contemporary setting blending advanced technology with classic architectural styles, fostering a world both familiar and futuristic.
What is the importance of Cylon development in 'Caprica'?
Cylon development is crucial in 'Caprica,' linking directly to 'Battlestar Galactica,' illustrating the technological breakthroughs and ethical conflicts that lead to future interstellar conflicts.
What role does Sam Adama play in 'Caprica'?
Sam Adama, portrayed by Sasha Roiz, is Joseph Adama's brother, deeply involved in underground activities, adding layers to the Adama family's moral and ethical challenges.
What are the ethical dilemmas in 'Caprica'?
'Caprica' presents ethical dilemmas around AI, cultural conflicts, and personal ambitions, challenging characters with decisions about power, identity, and societal impact.
What is the narrative structure of 'Caprica'?
'Caprica' uses a character-driven, complex narrative structure, intertwined with political, familial, and technological storylines that build an immersive world impacting its successors.
Who is Clarice Willow in 'Caprica'?
Clarice Willow, played by Polly Walker, is a charismatic religious leader whose ambitions intersect with Graystones, playing a crucial role in the show's themes of belief and power.
What kind of reception did 'Caprica' get from critics?
'Caprica' received mixed initial reviews; praised for its innovative concepts and complex storytelling but critiqued for pacing issues, splitting audiences between favor and indifference.
How does 'Caprica' address identity issues?
'Caprica' scrutinizes identity through AI and virtual personas, questioning what defines individuality and consciousness amidst evolving technological landscapes in its speculative future.
What is Amanda Graystone's profession in 'Caprica'?
In 'Caprica', Amanda Graystone is a surgeon, her professional background playing into the scientific and ethical layers of the storyline, adding depth to her character.