It is a question as old as human understanding of space and time itself, “are we alone in the universe?”. Common logic would make us immediately say no, out of all the systems and planets out there, we cannot be the only one to sustain life can we? Well, in this four-part documentary series, produced by one J.J. Abrams, we broach that subject via the oft mocked topics of UFOs.

UFOs exist. They have to, that is a fact. If we see something in the sky and cannot place it, by very definition that is a ‘UFO’. But do aliens and flying saucers exist? Now that is something altogether different. This series tackles these subjects with the degree of theory, intelligence, analysis and open-mindedness so regularly missing from such programming. The truth is out there but there is no doubt about it, after seeing mainstream TV present us visible piss takes like Shaun Ryder on UFOs and I Believe in UFOs: Danny Dyer, it is not hard to see why it hasn’t been found, and why many who can uncover it, would not dare go looking for fear of mockery.

Now, yes, this four-parter does not reveal an ultimate answer (duh) and is sometimes frustratingly distant in how every idea comes with a counter-point, leaving us back where we started ultimately. However, this well argued and assembled look at UFOs, extraterrestrials, witness testimony, disinformation, governance, conspiracy and even abduction, among other hefty ideas, is a compelling viewing that will delight those with an interest in, and maybe even illuminate a few non believers.

With an impressive roster of talking heads, and an expansive range of subjects, this four-part treat, shows the utmost respect to its interviewees and the evidence. Unleashing numerous videos, reports and research, all inspired by a big New York Times news story a few years back, which revealed the Pentagon had been investigating UFOs for years. This documentary series in turn gives the topic a level of gravitas it has rarely ever had on television screens.

UFO may show ultimately that we are still in search of the truth, but it offers some serious food for thought on a number of ideas (many of which remain ambitious discussions). Not to mention it reveals some chilling footage and information from across the globe, to create a fascinating look into what exactly is flying across our skies, and who knows about it.

Great stuff.

UFO is available now on Showtime in the US, and is available on Sky Documentaries in the UK.