If you loved the mind-bending mystery and psychological depth of 'ID: INVADED' (2020), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that dive into surreal investigations, complex characters, and thought-provoking narratives. Whether you're a fan of sci-fi thrillers or cerebral storytelling, these picks will keep you hooked.

Akira (1988)
Description: A groundbreaking cyberpunk film that explores themes of power, corruption, and human evolution. The story is set in a dystopian future and features intense action sequences paired with deep philosophical undertones.
Fact: The film was one of the first anime to gain widespread international acclaim. It took over 10 years to complete and was one of the most expensive anime films of its time.


Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)
Description: A mecha series that transcends its genre to explore deep psychological and existential themes. The narrative is dense with symbolism and delves into the mental states of its characters, often leaving viewers with more questions than answers.
Fact: The series was initially intended to be a more straightforward mecha show but evolved into a deeply personal project for its creator. It has since become a cultural phenomenon in Japan.


Boogiepop Phantom (2000)
Description: A psychological horror series with a non-linear narrative that delves into the dark corners of the human psyche. It features eerie atmospheres and complex character studies, often blurring the line between reality and hallucination.
Fact: The series is based on a light novel series and is known for its experimental storytelling. It was one of the first anime to explore the concept of 'urban legends' in a psychological context.


Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (2002)
Description: A cyberpunk series that delves into the intersection of humanity and technology, featuring complex narratives about identity, consciousness, and societal control. The storytelling is layered with philosophical questions and high-tech crime investigations.
Fact: The series is known for its detailed animation and realistic depiction of cybernetic enhancements. It also popularized the concept of 'cyberbrain' hacking in anime.


Paranoia Agent (2004)
Description: A psychological thriller that weaves together multiple storylines to explore themes of collective delusion, societal pressure, and the blurred line between reality and illusion. The narrative is surreal and thought-provoking.
Fact: The series was created by Satoshi Kon, known for his mind-bending storytelling. It was originally intended to be a one-off project but evolved into a full series due to its unique premise.


Ergo Proxy (2006)
Description: A dark, philosophical anime that combines elements of psychological thriller and post-apocalyptic sci-fi. It explores themes of identity, existentialism, and the nature of reality through a mysterious and atmospheric narrative.
Fact: The series features a unique art style and incorporates references to various philosophical works, including those of Descartes and Heidegger. It also has a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack.


Paprika (2006)
Description: A visually stunning film that blends dream and reality, exploring the subconscious mind through a thrilling and surreal narrative. The story revolves around a device that allows therapists to enter patients' dreams.
Fact: The film heavily influenced Christopher Nolan's 'Inception'. It was also Satoshi Kon's final completed film before his untimely death.


Steins;Gate (2011)
Description: A sci-fi thriller that combines time travel with psychological drama. The story is tightly woven, with a focus on the consequences of altering the past and the emotional toll it takes on the characters.
Fact: The series is based on a visual novel and is praised for its scientific accuracy in depicting time travel. It also features a unique protagonist who refers to himself as a 'mad scientist'.


Psycho-Pass (2012)
Description: A dystopian cyberpunk series that explores themes of crime, justice, and the psychological impact of surveillance. It features a unique blend of psychological thriller and sci-fi elements, with a focus on how technology influences human behavior.
Fact: The series was inspired by classic dystopian literature like '1984' and 'Brave New World'. It also features a futuristic version of Japan where citizens are constantly monitored for criminal potential.


The Promised Neverland (2019)
Description: A dark fantasy series that starts as a seemingly innocent story but quickly turns into a psychological thriller. The narrative is filled with twists and explores themes of survival, trust, and the darker aspects of human nature.
Fact: The series was originally a manga that became a massive hit due to its unpredictable plot. It is known for its intense cliffhangers and emotional depth.
