The Best Politician in Science Fiction: Chrisjen Avasarala from The Expanse

It's finally here! Today we return to covering The Expanse with an in-depth breakdown of the UN's bad mama, Chrisjen Avasarala. We've done the Rocinante's Amos Burton, the Belter Camina Drummer, space detective Joe Miller, the old pirate Klaes Ashford, and Martian Marine Bobbie Draper. All of these characters are interesting and complex but none perhaps quite as much as Avasarala.
Other character breakdowns from The Expanse:
Amos: • The Most Complex Chara...
Camina: • The Best Female Charac...
Miller: • The Best Space Cop in ...
Bobbie: • The Best Space Marine ...
Ashford: • The Best Space Pirate ...
Image Attribution list: docs.google.com/document/d/1c...
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[@GenerationFilms]

Ya'll deserve an hour of content because...2020. PLEASE share this video if you have a few moments, The Expanse doesn't get enough love!

[@pyeitme508]

Maybe

[@jeffjohnson1966]

I have attempted to share the video on r/TheExpanse. Currently being reviewed by a human so we'll see.... figured if it works, it'll get some love there. That sub is full of people like us. 🤣😂🤣

[@GenerationFilms]

Appreciate you Jeff!

[@vennb1137]

this video is a never ending story - although it ends at a point I've not yet reached (it's very long)

[@seditiousxero]

It took 15 minutes and a costume change for me to realize how long this is. Glad you guys are digging into this show lately.

[@josephhunt1297]

She also had arguably THE greatest wardrobe in the history of media.

[@DaveBarrack]

Her and Mads Mikkelsen from Hannibal in the same room would create a fashion singularity.

[@shelldie8523]

Give a suit of power armor any day of the week

[@fredlandry6170]

She’s got style!

[@incomingincoming1133]

The West is generally not used to such fashion.

[@shawnnbits]

This

[@terrenced7742]

Half the reason I watch the show is for Avasarala. She's smart, cunning, and holy shit her outfits are stunning. I love Shohreh Aghdashloo even more since the show came out.

[@Mars-di6rr]

You should read the books. She figures out erinwreights the one behind half the shit going down, all by her assistant biting his lip. It's an incredible scene.

[@WildeFyre69]

As I am sure everyone knows, she has held positions of power in the Star Trek universe. I was thrilled beyond measure to see her in such an important role in The Expanse. Thank you again for another superfine[tm] video. BTW: when did you start writing such profound poetry?

[@whyjnot420]

@@WildeFyre69Not to mention being one of the highest ranking Quarians in Mass Effect (2 & 3). Also she got to show off her brains in one of the X-Men movies, even if in a small part (as a scientist in some lab). Damn I love her voice.

[@WildeFyre69]

@@whyjnot420 Her voice… oh yeah. She has the sexiest damn voice in the business in my outspoken and not at all humble opinion.

[@prankishsquire2663]

I really wonder who is responsible for Chrisjens wardrobe. You are one of the first I have seen to make a comment on it. Premier Bhutto connection for sure, but very much 22nd century, wow.

[@phetproductions5818]

I was like "Why is it an hour-long?" then I realized it was about Aversarala. Makes sense. It's very long, but it makes sense.

[@Dewydidit]

I thought the same thing, "An hour? Well, it is about Chrissie, she's got depth for days."

[@cmdrTremyss]

About half an hour are just flower clips and poems

[@gregajohnson1985]

maybe the cringe poetry between points?

[@gregajohnson1985]

@@ChineduOpara im glad you have your opinion.

[@vinceho5757]

He also kept fucking reading poetry.

[@Leguinan]

Avasarala, in the books, has a loving husband, she is a powerful woman, unapologetic, she is a Mother, a grandmother, a force to be reckoned with, a juggernout, and very feminine. She wages War, she protects the sol system, she guards Earth, the writers made a female character that any woman can have as role model, and Ms Shoreh plays her with such carisma that it is impossible tô think of another actress playing this role, together they became an icon. I love her from season one.

[@rileyernst9086]

And she swears like a trooper.

[@sirrickardjameses]

Ty and Daniel are masters at their craft. So many good characters in the books, male and female. Book avasarala and TV drummer take the cake for me. 2 of my favorite fictional characters of all time.

[@pinkeyedjim]

Her hubs in the show is a pretty stand up fella too. Just not much screen time.

[@3LeagueSos]

She is hands down my favorite character in the entire story. Avasarala is what writers should look to when it comes to writing a strong female character. Masterful.

[@dson978]

I like how Amos has a little crush on her.

[@DaviASRocha]

who doesn't mate, who doesn't?

[@starliner2498]

@@ZakhadWOW Feminine side? He really is into her

[@kossttamojaan]

little? plus he admires the fk out of her

[@DhStyleZz]

i dont think he has a crush on her i just think he admires her personality they both get 'shit done'

[@starliner2498]

@@DhStyleZz you've watched the latest episodes?

[@cyqry]

Tensions between Mars and Earth are at an all time high, a cold war is about to go nuclear, both sides set to slit each others throats at the drop of a coin. "I find it hard to believe that a Martian Marine would be fatigued from sitting in a chair."

[@raymondelder1594]

The Secret of All Marines is Having a Detailed plan of how to fuck up 98% of the surrounding area as quickly as possible and to sleep whenever, wherever, for as long as possible.

[@bloodraven1190]

@@raymondelder1594 as a marine I can 100% confirm this as factual

[@Omnifarious0]

Managing to gain Bobby's loyalty is an absolutely amazing feat on the part of Avasarala.

[@eyesofstatic9641]

Right? Considering how hoorah Bobby was for Mars too!

[@protorhinocerator142]

Does anyone else get that thrill of awesomeness when she and/or Bobbie are on the Roci with the rest of the crew and they're rocketing straight into maximum danger?

[@wysoft]

"Ma'am, for once in your life would you please just shut the fuck up?"

[@Joeysaladslover]

So you haven’t read the books? It took almost no effort lol

[@Omnifarious0]

@@Joeysaladslover - I haven't. Just because something takes no effort doesn't mean it isn't an impressive feat. Bobby, in the show, isn't someone who gives her loyalty blindly. Avasarala had to be a particular kind of person before Bobby would even consider her. Being that kind of person is not easy.

[@KaBoomStock]

Over an hour and you didn’t even touch on the power of her fashion choices. Still, well done.

[@gladtobefreeagain7375]

Let's face it. Her fashion choices keep our attention while we await plot developments. And, it's been a long time since scifi selected a mature woman as a convincing political focal point. Space is clearly for the young. Earth not so much.

[@prankishsquire2663]

Most skillful use of wardrobe in character development that I can even think of since R2-D2

[@RCAvhstape]

She certainly looks and dresses better than Mon Mothma did.

[@chaost4544]

Her fashion is a god damn flex onto itself.

[@theKonfusion]

She like the Earth Version of a Naboo Queen.

[@saheliumd7182]

This Actress NEEDS a movie of her own, her voice is unique and versatile.

[@jokrhntr1351]

Was playing Mass Effect 2 for the first time a few months ago, was helping Tali'a with the Quarian Admirals and I heard Avasaralas voice through the helmet. Thought no fkn way, looked it up and sure enough there she was. She has a distinctive voice that I'll never forget and an acting quality of being exactly as her character from the book series. Just an awesome artist

[@mazooooney]

The Stoning of Soraya M. Its in persian so subtitles, but her acting is amazing. Only movie a cried too.

[@liamjohnson8000]

Unique? My uncle smoked a pack a day for 40 years sounds just like her

[@wouterdevlieger1002]

IMO, her voice fits better with her role in grimm. There's something forced about tv-Avasarala that book-Avasarala doesn't have.

[@Peter-hx3im]

@@wouterdevlieger1002 I disagree. To me she is the prefect Avasarala, the best casting in a show full of prefect casting. When I read the books, I hear Avasarala's lines in the actresses voice.

[@pythonxz]

"I worry about people who throw rocks." You're right, she is a billion steps ahead...if you get my drift.

[@snperkiller1054]

Cant help but feel that those line were the biggest, and best hidden foreshadowings.

[@RijackiTorment]

Her grandson's response is also spot-on foreshadowing.

[@androkguz]

Well, if you think about it, by that time the threat from meteors from Mars was real. It's not as if Marco is the first one to ever think about throwing rocks Mars could have always done the same thing that Marco did, but for them it wouldn't have made sense... At the time. Throwing rocks is not an attack than can be done as retaliation, since the rocks need to be thrown at about six months in advance. That means Mars could only do it if they decided to break the coldness of the war and be willing to scalate to maximum destruction. Earth would retaliate and unlike Marco, who lives in a ship, the Martians have a planet that would have been targeted by the full force of the earth. At the point in time of the story, all war simulations result in earth winning. But they also show that five years from then, Mars gets the upper hand, since they have a faster growing army and technology. Thus, in a few years it may make sense for Mars to throw rocks at earth

[@snperkiller1054]

@@androkguz Well, considering what was available to them the Martians would not have thrown rocks but thermonuclear warheads, probably packed in stealth cluster missiles.

[@androkguz]

@@snperkiller1054 but how would they have thrown them in such a way that they wouldn't lose the scalating war? Would they have thrown them as a first strike?

[@nyft3352]

"Nobody could throw rocks that big" The Expanse S5: allow me to introduce myself

[@katmatally]

Marco Inaros: [snickers]

[@internaut4257]

great foreshadowing

[@BigHenFor]

Notice that Avaserala's costumes reflect her intent and emotional focus. When she's at the heights of her power the power jewellery, bling, and gold come out. When she's down on her luck, he accessories shrunk, and give her problems. When she talks about her son, every thing is muted, hard edged, and subdued. When she comes back in power out from the cold, statement jewellery is quickly reinstated. The direction given to the actors and the costuming and accessories being used to their full capacity makes The Expanse a very special show. Hail, Queen Avaserala!

[@PantsuMann]

A 10-15 minutes video would not do Avasarala justice. Thanks for the in depth. Shohreh plays her so well, and everything she wares is beams with political power and confidense. Magnificent actress and character. Thank you!

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you for watching! 🙌😁

[@shukitheconscious3150]

Avasarala: One of the most badass characters I know in any tv show.

[@AhmerBashir]

Shohreh Aghdashloo's Chrisjen Avasarale deserves a movie about her life's journey into intergalactic politics. She is a phenomenal character.

[@protorhinocerator142]

No more prequels please. Just have a spin-off movie centered on her. And add her to more scenes in The Expanse. Prequels = blech!

[@UglyJaguar]

I'm positive she was one of the Quarian admirals in Mass Effect

[@Lomi311]

Nice catch! Admiral Shala'Raan vas Tonbay In Mass Effect 2.

[@UglyJaguar]

@@Lomi311 I thought I recognized that voice

[@UNSCPILOT]

Great point, now that you point that out it's a 1 to 1 match, she does great work for science fiction!

[@gregajohnson1985]

no shit.

[@robgraham5697]

I absolutely adore Christjen Avasarala. Tough, smart, and good in a way not often seen in media. A joy to watch every time she is on screen. Thanks for this. I'm not much of a poetry fan but the addition of it in this video perfectly set and fit the mood. Well done.

[@helbent4]

In describing her to friends I nicknamed her "Space Indira Gandhi" before reading she (along with Benazir Bhutto, Margaret Thatcher and Madeline Albright) was the actor's inspiration for the character.

[@robgraham5697]

@@helbent4 I hope that's not true as I do not like any of those women. I like Ms. Avasarala.

[@helbent4]

@@robgraham5697 I like Avasarala as well, but it's important to realise she is fundamentally a fictional character. The actor, Aghdashloo, based her on all these women whether we like it or not. I can't say I personally like any one of them as I would a fictional character like Avasarala.

[@ourabouras]

Chrisjen Avasarala is definitely my favorite character on the show (along with Amos and Bobby), my eye immediately gravitates towards her, and not just for her jaw dropping wardrobe (shoutout to the costume department). In Chrisjen we have a character who is charismatic, cunning, has a wickedly sharp sense of humor, and hidden warmth, a combination we rarely get to see in tv/movie characters. Plus I could listen to her curse people out all day😁

[@caseygibson7981]

Season four only gets more frustrating when season five starts. “Would losing be so bad?” YES! Lots of people are dead now

[@nemesis7774]

Well, her history isn't over yet. The 5th season of the expanse is coming, and I doubt she'll know the joys of retirement...

[@zachsmith1676]

I hope she does have a part in S5... perhaps after the other lady, the one who wins the election, fails at protecting humanity through her naivety. Aversarala kept people from exploring and I mean just look at how close the one "belter/Earth" planet nearly wiped out the colony... Had the Rocinante not been there, the colony would've gone blind and then die from the hostile slugs if not from the tsunami that forced them into that construct.

[@nemesis7774]

Well, I think she will. Besides, they've already announced a sixth season to come... Wait, how many books are there left to adapt ? There're nine books in total, so if a season equal one book, we've still five seasons to go... Yes, they saved the day on New Terra / (Belter name I don't remember), but had Holden not activated the device, none of the tsunami thing would have happened nor the fusion reactor issue. They would have still killed each other though, and would have likely all died on that planet.

[@jamiesalley604]

@@nemesis7774 the expanse is stopping at season 6😔 but at least they’ll end in their own terms and I prob not be rushed

[@nemesis7774]

@@jamiesalley604 My only wish would be to see some space battle of a somewhat great scale. I mean, the biggest space battle we had was the fall of the donnager and it was in season 1. We only saw the scope of the battle in the fields of death they left afterwards...

[@jamiesalley604]

@@nemesis7774 yes massive scale on game of thrones type battles

[@RCAvhstape]

That camera shot at 10:24 is masterful. Avasarala is far enough away that you can't really see her eyes closely, and the lighting along with her makeup makes her look like a grinning demon. You are seeing what Erinright is seeing and you get a good idea of the threat she is directing his way.

[@Rubicon2305]

That. Was. EPIC! Worth every minute. This was the character profile I have been waiting for. Bravo!

[@GenerationFilms]

🙌Thanks that means a lot to me.

[@AnAmericanDodo]

I like the implication that Shoreh is so good at playing Avasarala due to her own direct experiences. Great video!

[@tallaganda83]

She is everything that makes the Expanse great. Complex and multi faceted.

[@ShadowDS83]

This feels like a beautiful love letter to Avasarala... Arjun better watch out...

[@Dewydidit]

I think we all have to get in line behind Amos.

[@Sinewmire]

Complete with poetry, which Arjun won her over with.

[@shelldie8523]

Why? Arjun leaves her geniuses. Avasarala is single and ready to f...

[@ShadowDS83]

@shelldie8523 at the time, the events of season 5 did not transpire yet...

[@gregorypew793]

As a character study of one of the most nuanced characters in Sci Fi this succeeds Brilliantly! However it was your insight that Bhenazir Bhuto was the historical model for Avasarala that earned you a Subscription!! Well done.

[@petervarga7913]

In fact, I googled the actress. She was born in Iran and first, she fled to the UK at young age because of political reasons. She then went to a political university to understand, what actually caused her to flee her homecountry Iran. She then moved to the United States. So she is acting well as a politician in the movie, because she actually really faced harsh times in her real life and graduated a political university.

[@bagelized]

"because of political reasons" not a random reason, but because of the Islamic Revolution.

[@shelldie8523]

More likely reason is the so called peace keepers and democracy peddlers who find themselves where oil and natural resources are in abundance

[@syahran1518]

in that case she's actually overqualified when it comes to potraying a politician

[@tracymetherell8744]

This is a masterpiece. Thank you for all the love you give The Expanse.

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you for your viewership Tracy. ☺️

[@samuelgionet2171]

"where are you going with this" "Wherever I goddamn like!" Best politician ever 😂 Edit: Palpatine is also the best... I cannot deny that haha

[@darkbooger]

The Senate will decide your fate

[@matrimalviarin5043]

Avasarala VS Palpatine, the ultimate political showdown

[@darkbooger]

Oh boy 66 likes. The time has come... execute order 66.

[@iskuter]

I just read that with her voice

[@andyb1653]

Palpatine is awesome, yes, but consider Avasarala did all of that without a single midichlorian in her blood. No space magic whatsoever, just mad skillz.

[@Hunter_IRL]

She owns every scene she’s in.

[@joshuagriffith746]

YES! Everytime she was on screen there was no one else. ❤️

[@LordTelperion]

57:27 Spot on. Having gone through my own tragedies, I can sympathize with this detachment and living life like a ghost, only alive to do a job for some greater good that honors what was lost.

[@ghostdreamer7272]

She's what I imagined Leia Organa to be like in the Senate.

[@maximimaxima3327]

May be a bit dirtier and tougher.

[@c0t0d0s7]

And she uses, like, swear words and shit.

[@noah480]

Leia Organa, with extra Carrie Fisher.

[@melissainge218]

This woman is SUCH A BADASS!!! And the language… this is a woman after my own heart!

[@joec9486]

After watching that grand masterpiece for free . i believe i and many others should buy some merch. All the time and effort truly paid off for us. That was one of the best character dives i ever seen. Sincere thanks to everyone who put this ❤

[@GenerationFilms]

Really appreciate your kind words!🙏😥. You have no idea how much that means to us! Honestly for this video all we ask is that you share because The Expanse never gets enough attention. In any case, we're just happy you enjoyed it! Please stay tuned for more! ❤️

[@joec9486]

I work at a gas station. I don't push my sales cuz my job sucks but to the few customers i bs with about media ive been recommending TheExpanse and pointed them to yall for after they watch the show. The quality of these could and should have them released under Amazon as actually being a associate of the show maybe links from the show to see yall after. This level of content only comes from true fans though and that always shines through with everything yall do. Ya are fans first and would probably be doing something on par with this even if it didn't generate revenue for yall. Thanks again i watched every second and the writing and speechmanship (new word?lol) were impeccable.

[@GenerationFilms]

Thanks Joe. I can sense through your words that you're a special guy - a sincere heartfelt guy. Don't lose that. Good things to come.

[@robertwinslade3104]

Avesarala is definitely one of my favourite characters. My only issue with her storyline is that they had to replace the actor playing her husband, Arjun, after the show got un-cancelled. I know it couldn't be helped due to scheduling conflicts, and the new guy was fine, I guess; I never would have had an issue with him had he played Arjun from the beginning. But I did slightly prefer Brian George's version of the character, and his dynamic with Chrisjen, over the new guy's. Plus just changing the actor like that was definitely slightly jarring and took me out of my immersion a bit. I would have felt the emotions behind the fight Chrisjen and Arjun had in season 4 far more sharply had it still been Brian George in those scenes.

[@liamorourke9612]

This is definitely the best Generation Films video so far

[@dadrocha7741]

It isn't just me. I am not surprised how you feel about this character. Despite her ruthlessness, it is easy to admire her. I look forward to more of her on the show.

[@calebtovar6408]

This vídeo is pure Gold with Diamonds; thanks a lot, Ben. A big hug to you.

[@GenerationFilms]

😁❤️❤️

[@dc-4ever201]

Love this actress, such a classy lady, makes me laugh when her character let's loose with a 4 letter tirade, she even makes that look and sound amazing.

[@TheDBZman01]

I could listen to her curse for an eternity

[@StephenYuan]

Avasarala is easily one of the smartest characters in science fiction.

[@darin447]

I didn’t know what to think of this when I started it. You F’ing nailed it. In a way I kind of feel better about my life, almost smarter than before watch it. The complexity, the imagery. Impressive, great job buddy!

[@DaddyHensei]

I love how she swears like a sailor. Totally would vote for her.

[@Kaiserland111]

My goodness, we just got an entire semester's worth of literary analysis in a single 1-hour video. You guys are absolutely amazing! And so is The Expanse. They have so many meaningful, complex, relatable, and inspiring characters that you almost forget how phenomenal the science is, and the CGI, and the action scenes...It's all just soooooo good!

[@EarhirX]

She is a leader, that's what she is. She's got this motherly caring and also fierceness, she's good but will do what it takes to accomplish her goals. Would follow her wherever she's leading

[@Kanchai7]

I can't believe I spen 1:04:30 watching this.The Expanse is so good. I really love your job here. I waiting for next video.

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you!🙌🙏

[@GenerationFilms]

Oh wow, on second thought thanks for watching the whole thing. 😭

[@quietlistener7054]

Just finished catching up on the show and I have to say the character writing/acting is just so phenomenal! This breakdown of one of the most interesting characters was well made! To the point where halfway through I was screaming, "She's a Mother!!" And then it hit! Well played sir! Well Played!

[@TheGiggityG]

My favorite charterer in my favorite show. She steals every scene.

[@TheJoborg100]

I am a big fan of “The Expanse” and I have to say your breakdown and analysis of Avasarala was amazing . Thank you

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you!

[@billybangbang9180]

Chrisjen Avasarala is second to none, and first among equals... the best dress first Grand lady in Science Fiction TV, and movie history for all times... hands down!!!!

[@NoahHuberFeely]

This was incredible! Felt like watching a documentary in the best way possible.

[@drewrub7415]

Even when I was listening to the audiobooks before the tv show came out, She was one of my favorite characters. So well written, and superbly portrayed. Great analysis of the character, AB.

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you!😁🙏

[@Shatterwings060]

Wow, had to fight off tears multiple times with those poetic lines reads...

[@Ugapiku]

Palapatine VS Avasarala is what I would like to see lmao

[@808INFantry11X]

I would say in political maneuvering I would say Avarserala because her opponents are kind of smart LOL

[@protorhinocerator142]

Doctor Doom enters the chat.

[@pauliusUwU]

But Palpatine loves democracy

[@joe74509migo]

Who would have guessed the most badass character in earth faction is a fragile old woman?

[@northwesternbelle]

Who swears like a sailor and dresses like a queen!

[@robbrown2222]

Blackadder, Season 2, Beer: Queenie: I may have the body of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart and stomach of a concrete elephant. Pretty much sums up Avasarala :)

[@Awol991]

@@northwesternbelle And walks into black site torture sites to personally interrogate the prisoner.

[@21CCommunIT]

Old... maybe. Fragile? *Never!*

[@toolegittoquit_001]

Not so fragile ...

[@kevinbendall9119]

Thanks for doing this. I'm old enough that I should have caught the Benezair Bhutto connection. This was very well done, and I had to find a time slot that would be uninterrupted to watch it. On another side note: I'm glad that they are going to release most of the new episodes weekly. I don't have time to binge them, and hate having to avoid spoilers while I try to catch up.

[@GenerationFilms]

Thanks for taking the time to tune in! I definitely agree on the weekly release schedule, I'd rather savor the season!

[@kenzopo8125]

BRAVO for going Above & Beyond the other content out there. Bravo Good Sir. 👌🖖

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you! 🙌

[@DingoDin]

Magnificent! Long live the soul of Avasarala! And the brilliance of Shohreh Aghdashloo 🚀🥰💖

[@dreamingflurry2729]

"A hero isn't braver than an ordinary person, he (or she) is just brave 5 minutes longer!" - Seemed fitting, as Avasarala isn't without fear - but she knows how to deal with it, unlike many other people who give in to despair or panick! Hell, the Dune-Verse mindkiller quote - "Fear is the mindkiller..." (look it up) fits her, too she lets her fear pass and (usually) remains able to act, even while afraid!

[@DimaRakesah]

"Wherever I goddamn like!" is my favorite line in the entire series.

[@kmichaelthompson]

Your commentary and precise dissection of the characters is on point. You totally ROCK dude. Keep up the good work because this is the best scifi action/drama series since the BSG reboot.

[@JayTraversJT]

Bobby and Chrisjen are just my favourite dream team.

[@inner8source464]

A brilliant analysis of a fascinating character and a series we will certainly start watching now!!

[@Rubicon2305]

YEEEAAASSSSSSS! I have been so waiting for this one!

[@django02]

The analyses that you do are one of my favorite things on youtube by far. You really outdid yourself with this one. Knocked it out of the park! Keep up the fantastic work! Oh, and "shaken, but not deterred" was dangerously close to a certain famous line.

[@kiralynnharris4159]

Huge THANK YOU for this deep dive into my favorite character! Only thing missing was an analysis of her amazing wardrobe ;) Currently binge re-watching The Expanse, alternating with binge reading the books. And, srsly - this character is incredible and Shohreh Aghdashloo plays her to perfection, dominating each and every scene she's in.

[@SmokeWeasel]

Best line ever, "Wherever I god-damn like". When asked where she was going with her questioning of Bobby.

[@tomxaros48]

Awesome video! All hail Avasarala!

[@waraidako]

Since you guys started doing Expanse videos you've become the premier Expanse channel on youtube in my opinion. The in depth videos and explanations of the universe are far beyond what anyone else is doing. Trust me, I've looked for this kind of content for a long time. As a fan of the books, the portrayal of Avasarala by Shohreh Aghdashloo is beyond perfect. The casting of the show is stellar, but few actors or actresses really elevate the characters beyond their portrayals in the books the way Shohreh does for Avasarala, or David Strathairn did for Klaes Ashford, who was a minor nobody character in the books. I know a lot of people were upset with her portrayal in Season 4, but these people can rest assured knowing that this was a direct response to the situation at hand. For someone as concerned with Earth's future as Avasarala, and given the unstable political situation in the Sol system, the ring gates pose an incredible risk to the future not just of Earth but of humanity as a whole. It is understandable in that context why she is so vehemently opposed to the reckless exploration of these alien worlds by people who in their desperation are unable and unwilling to take the necessary precautions and follow the proper, albeit slow and meticulous, safety protocols, and we saw in Season 4 exactly how risky it can be playing with this particular fire. Perhaps it's because I read the books and watching the show is less about finding out what happens and more about seeing how they tell the story in a visual format, but I personally appreciated her characterization here. It shows that she isn't a one-dimensional character. She changes along with the story in appropriate ways just as anyone would grow along with the events they live through. This is true for all of the characters in The Expanse, with one notable exception who will remain unnamed, but I think everyone can pretty much guess who I am referring to here.

[@GenerationFilms]

Thanks for this comment. I appreciate your take, makes me think! And I agree I do like how characters in the show evolve!

[@meta4101]

Love your Expanse character analyses. This one is definitely your magnum opus and one of the best character analyses that I've read or seen anywhere ... the comparison with Bhutto was brilliant.

[@alexflores7652]

I love how you break down the characters of this series and the way how the actress plays the role is absolute gold. The characters are three dimensional and they have quarks and foibles that makes them so enjoyable to watch.

[@CounterLink]

this deserves more views then it has gotten, i freaking love your guys videos on the expanse! they got me to watch it and now i cant wait for season 5!

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you! Season five can't come soon enough!

[@zaguar3153]

My first impression of Chrisjen Avasarala was shock - Tali never told my Commander Shepard that Admiral Shala'Raan had such a potty mouth! She's definitely among the most intriguing characters in "The Expanse", and Shohreh Aghdashloo is an excellent actress!

[@ZeroMod]

Fabulous job presenting one of the best characters in science fiction!

[@chromabotia]

For complex reasons, I only just now completed my first viewing of the Expanse. It is the finest science fiction I have ever seen. I was in 7th grade when I first read the, "Neutron Star" anthology and Niven's Known Space books were soon to follow. I love hard science fiction and the golden and platinum sf authors were next. All of that served as to the "background" of the Expanse. But what blew me away in the Expanse was fully fleshed three dimensional, fine literature level characters. By the 2nd episode I was smitten by, Chrisjen Avasarala. I want to say to you brilliant, just brilliant in your analysis and breakdown of Chrisjen Avasarala. Ah, so good! The writing in the Expanse and your writing in this deep dive is phenomenal. Thank you, thank you so much!

[@georgiadufresne3360]

That was GREAT! Thank you for the break down of this truly dynamic character!

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you for watching Georgia. 😊

[@deanadewall8400]

Hope they show her daughter's next season. The show never mentions them...but the grand kids are obviously not her sons.

[@Reedstilt]

I think the daughter is mentioned in the show, but not by name. I went to the wiki to double check, but they only list an "Unnamed daughter" as a relation to the show!Avasarala (Book!Avasarala has a named daughter).

[@Reedstilt]

@@ZakhadWOW Where did you get the idea that Book!Avasarala is white?

[@deanadewall8400]

@@Reedstilt I couldn't remember if she had 1 or 2 daughters, but I know she has 2 gran daughters in the books, because I remember that part. I don't remember a grandson, which is all they show in the series.

[@solomonrorellien8634]

She is!

[@nelkosme3734]

Love this video! Avassarala is my favourite character from The Expanse. And the actress is brilliantly bringing the character to life!

[@JayTraversJT]

She's really active on social media too. An awesome and kind person in real life as she is on the screen.

[@cursedmonkey1033]

That was beautiful. I could get used to these hour long videos. Love you man.

[@GenerationFilms]

❤️Love u bruh

[@Krojester]

Deep State Mamacita is my all female, Industrial/mariachi fusion band

[@jeffcharles5858]

Expanse is the greatest TV, and probably the greatest SciFi movie production in history. AB, you're my new friend, thank you. I've watched all of these now, fantastic work! I've been thru the entire 6 seasons probably 4 times now, read all the books, and am now compelled to go binge it again. It is that good, and your character analyses have only refreshed my own immense appreciation of the magnificent casting and deeply flawed and completely human characters developed for this production. This is both Cinema, and Space Opera, at its absolute best, and you have only improved my appreciation and love for it. Bravo, sir. Enjoyed the poetry immensely as well, and remember but had neglected to tend my own rememberance of Benazir Bhutto's life, and her untimely death. The Expanse is a masterpiece with few if any peers.

[@GenerationFilms]

I will never tire of reading comments like these! Thank you

[@bgw33]

My first experience with this host. Who writes the poetry he delivers so spontaneously and heartfelt? Thank you for helping me understand the Expanse characters and the genius of the writers. And the actors.

[@gladtobefreeagain7375]

Ben, love the poetry as well. You've outdone yourself with excellent analysis ard beautiful poetry. And to think this character was greatly expanded from the book series to give us a focal point for Earther politics in the Earth, Mars & Belt meet new protomolecule/ring paradigm. The Expanse is a game changer story and drama with enough fidelity to real behavior to take us beyond obvious fantasy tv and games. It feels authentic thanks to a terrific cast as well.

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you for the nice note! Really appreciate it my friend. 😁

[@chrisg9606]

@@GenerationFilms Was all the poetry original? It was moving on par with the masters, and set the undertones in a way simple exposition could not have. Do you do this often, or in another media?

[@stuartwestley8636]

@@chrisg9606 I was also wondering this too

[@hououinkyouma1458]

Like finally ......finally..he covers Avasarala.

[@wikipedia2.061]

i didn't know this channel but how you present this story is really interesting, and also the phrases you stray in are quit impressive! Continue ths brilliant work!

[@jawadali4530]

The Benazir Bhutto comparison is really well observed - fantastic dissection of a character study... compelled me to the very end.

[@LadyKjell]

Already liked her and this essay on her character helps me appreciate her even more. Extra excited for season 5!

[@MK-rw1on]

she gets even better!

[@bigpharma2705]

@@MK-rw1on she's awesome

[@darthscott616]

Got to hand it to the Expanse, for me it is one of the few scifi-fantasy franchises that actually makes something akin to the politicians & the political systems we have on present day Earth interesting. I can tend to tune out in stories when these fictional universes are not run by nobility, the military, or something along those lines. Maybe for me its just due to the oversaturation of politics in the real world.

[@xelaneb]

These videos are amazing! Thank you for the hard work!

[@aex-blacksmithuk2111]

I love The Expanse and I have enjoyed all (to date) the videos you have done on the characters in that show and their places in the story line. Thank you.

[@charles9289]

8 minutes in and for the first time I glanced down to see how long the video was to my surprise a little over an hour, my first thought "wow that is long" followed by sweet it is an hour" Keep up the work the team at Generation Films.

[@GenerationFilms]

🙏😁Will do.

[@carpethroatius1]

She is one of the few characters in any show that I've seen where if she didn't exist the show just wouldn't work.

[@goingballisticmotion5455]

This character grows on you. At first you hate her, but over time she wins the viewer over too. Talk about a skilled politician!

[@KirbyBWebb]

MAG - NIFICENT ! I have saw THE EXPANSE here only, And this was VERY WELL DONE ! BRAVO !

[@RijackiTorment]

With the interactions with Arjun, I suspect hers was an arranged marriage or an encouraged semi-arranged marriage as a familial alliance. It most definitely occurred before she started rising in politics or at least politics above a local level where it could be perceived as being following in family footsteps to gracefully dabble in the political realm of men in the much less intense way acceptable of women. At the very least, Arjun expected her to retire, to step back from politics at least a decade before the show begins and chaffs a bit at his secondary role in their family dynamic. Or it could have been the death of their son that broke his support for her political side with him just wanting her to step away from it but also feeling a strong enough commitment to the relationship that had been to not express that. I suspect he was secretly hoping she would lose the election and then retire as he thinks she should. Her pressing on is when it steps past that bound and he tells her to go on without him. That she does is her accepting that the relationship she still hoped was what it once was is not and has not been for a long time. The one screen with Arjun that actually put him in a good light was the dinner with Bobby. Though even there, he goes out of his way to point out how secondary he is to her. I think there is a bit of resentment bubbling under the surface even there.

[@zachchartier570]

What is this, Generation Prose? /s But seriously, this was amazing. Now I understand why in recent weeks you've been somewhat avoiding making Expanse content. You probably had this clogging up the pipeline for a while now, I'd bet. Such a long video on a specific character from a show that's not necessarily the next Game of Thrones in terms of following proves beyond any doubt that Ben is hopelessly addicted lol. Also if ANYONE thinks Ben is insane and doesn't realize how long this video is, 26:27 . He's very aware, lol.

[@GenerationFilms]

Haha indeed this is the reason we didn't have any Expanse content lately. Expanse videos also don't get as many views as other franchises but I don't even care because the fans/commenters, including yourself, who watch my Expanse videos are the best! 😁😁

[@niccic6017]

I've watched this video at least 5-10 times. You really nailed the spirit of her character. 💗 So good!! Well done!!

[@GenerationFilms]

Thank you for every view! I really appreciate you! I make these videos not for the masses but for people like you who they mean something to!

[@Giganfan2k1]

I love hour long content. Having a paying account and listening stuff that changes takes me out of it as am doing stuff, or trying to go to sleep. It is why I like your compilation videos. Please more.