Black Mirror is a critically acclaimed anthology series that delves into the dark, twisted side of technology and society. If you’re a fan of its mind-bending plots and unsettling themes, you’ll love these 20 TV shows that capture a similar essence. Here are some recommendations to keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. The Twilight Zone
The Twilight Zone is the original anthology series that inspired many shows, including Black Mirror. It explores various genres such as science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Created by Rod Serling, this classic series features thought-provoking episodes that challenge societal norms and human nature.
2. Electric Dreams
Based on the works of Philip K. Dick, Electric Dreams is an anthology series that delves into futuristic and dystopian themes. Each episode presents a standalone story with unique characters, featuring actors like Bryan Cranston and Janelle Monáe. It’s a must-watch for fans of speculative fiction.
3. Inside No. 9
Inside No. 9 is a British anthology series created by Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton. Each episode is set in a different location with a unique story, blending dark humor and horror elements. The show is known for its clever twists and unexpected endings.
4. Love, Death & Robots
Love, Death & Robots is an animated anthology series that explores various themes like technology, dystopia, and the human condition. Produced by David Fincher and Tim Miller, each episode is a self-contained story with stunning visuals and unique animation styles.
5. The Outer Limits
The Outer Limits is another classic anthology series that delves into science fiction and horror. Each episode presents a standalone story with a moral or philosophical twist. The show has been praised for its thought-provoking narratives and imaginative concepts.
6. American Horror Story
American Horror Story is a horror anthology series created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk. Each season tells a different story with recurring actors like Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters. The show blends supernatural elements with real-life horrors, making it a thrilling watch.
7. Channel Zero
Channel Zero is an anthology horror series based on popular “creepypasta” stories from the internet. Each season adapts a different story, featuring eerie and unsettling plots. The show is known for its atmospheric tension and spine-chilling moments.
8. Tales from the Loop
Tales from the Loop is a science fiction series inspired by the artwork of Simon Stålenhag. The show explores the lives of people living in a town where strange and otherworldly phenomena occur. It stars Rebecca Hall and Jonathan Pryce, offering a blend of emotional storytelling and speculative fiction.
9. Room 104
Room 104 is an anthology series created by Mark and Jay Duplass. Each episode takes place in a single room of a motel, with different characters and stories. The show spans multiple genres, including drama, horror, and comedy, offering a unique viewing experience.
10. The X-Files
The X-Files is a science fiction series that follows FBI agents Mulder and Scully as they investigate paranormal phenomena. Created by Chris Carter, the show blends standalone “monster-of-the-week” episodes with an overarching conspiracy plot. It stars David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson.
11. Dark
Dark is a German science fiction thriller that explores time travel and its impact on a small town. The series follows four interconnected families as they uncover a sinister conspiracy spanning multiple generations. It stars Louis Hofmann and Lisa Vicari.
12. The OA
The OA is a mystery drama series created by Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij. The story follows a young woman who reappears after being missing for seven years, claiming to have experienced a supernatural event. The show blends science fiction, fantasy, and psychological drama.
13. Black Mirror: Bandersnatch
Bandersnatch is an interactive film set in the Black Mirror universe. It follows a young programmer who creates a video game based on a choose-your-own-adventure book. The film allows viewers to make choices that affect the storyline, creating a unique and immersive experience.
14. Altered Carbon
Altered Carbon is a cyberpunk series set in a future where human consciousness can be transferred to different bodies. The story follows a former soldier who is brought back to life to solve a wealthy man’s murder. It stars Joel Kinnaman and Anthony Mackie.
15. Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams
Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams is an anthology series based on the short stories of Philip K. Dick. Each episode explores a different futuristic or dystopian theme, featuring a diverse cast including Steve Buscemi and Anna Paquin. The show offers a thought-provoking look at the human condition.
16. Maniac
Maniac is a dark comedy-drama series that follows two strangers who participate in a mysterious pharmaceutical trial. The show explores themes of mental illness and reality, starring Jonah Hill and Emma Stone. It offers a surreal and visually stunning narrative.
17. Sense8
Sense8 is a science fiction drama series created by the Wachowskis. The story follows eight strangers from around the world who discover they are mentally and emotionally linked. The show delves into themes of identity, connection, and empathy.
18. The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian drama based on Margaret Atwood’s novel. The series is set in a totalitarian society where women are forced into reproductive servitude. It stars Elisabeth Moss and explores themes of power, control, and resistance.
19. Stranger Things
Stranger Things is a science fiction horror series set in the 1980s. The story follows a group of kids who encounter supernatural events in their small town. Created by the Duffer Brothers, the show stars Winona Ryder and David Harbour.
20. Westworld
Westworld is a science fiction series set in a futuristic theme park where guests can interact with lifelike robots. The show explores themes of consciousness, free will, and the nature of reality. It stars Evan Rachel Wood and Jeffrey Wright.
These shows offer a mix of genres and themes that will captivate any Black Mirror fan. Dive in and explore these mind-bending series!