If you loved the gripping true story and emotional depth of Dark Horse (2012), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same spirit of underdog triumphs, heartfelt drama, and inspiring real-life tales. Whether you're a fan of documentaries or narrative films, these picks will keep you engaged and moved.
The Illusionist (2006)
Description: A period drama about a magician whose performances blur the line between illusion and reality, wrapped in a romantic and mysterious plot.
Fact: The film is based on a short story by Steven Millhauser. It uses a sepia-toned color palette to evoke its early 20th-century setting.
Watch Now 
The Prestige (2006)
Description: A gripping tale of rivalry and obsession set in the world of stage magic, featuring intricate plots, deception, and a dark, mysterious atmosphere.
Fact: The film's nonlinear narrative and twist ending were inspired by Christopher Priest's novel of the same name. It features real-life magician Ricky Jay as a consultant.
Watch Now 
Carnival Row (2019)
Description: A fantasy noir series set in a Victorian-inspired world where mythical creatures coexist with humans, exploring themes of prejudice and mystery.
Fact: The show's elaborate sets and costumes were inspired by 19th-century European architecture. It was originally developed as a film script in
Watch Now 
The Greatest Showman (2017)
Description: A musical biopic celebrating the spectacle and showmanship of P.T. Barnum's circus, filled with grandeur, ambition, and a touch of the fantastical.
Fact: The soundtrack, composed by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, became a global hit. Hugh Jackman trained for a year to perform the acrobatic stunts.
Watch Now 
Now You See Me (2013)
Description: Centers around illusionists who perform heists during their shows, blending magic with crime and maintaining an air of mystery and spectacle.
Fact: The film's magic tricks were designed with the help of professional magicians to ensure authenticity. It spawned a sequel in
Watch Now 
A Discovery of Witches (2018)
Description: A supernatural romance and mystery series set in a world where witches, vampires, and demons secretly coexist, featuring academic intrigue and ancient secrets.
Fact: Based on Deborah Harkness's All Souls Trilogy, the series was filmed in locations across Europe, including Oxford and Venice. The lead actress is a historian in real life.
Watch Now 
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell (2015)
Description: A historical fantasy series about the resurgence of magic in 19th-century England, blending meticulous period detail with enchanting supernatural elements.
Fact: Based on Susanna Clarke's bestselling novel, the series took over a decade to adapt. It features extensive use of practical effects for its magical scenes.
Watch Now 
Penny Dreadful (2014)
Description: A Gothic horror series weaving together classic literary characters in a dark, atmospheric narrative filled with supernatural elements and psychological depth.
Fact: The title refers to the cheap, sensational serialized stories popular in 19th-century Britain. It features characters from Dracula, Frankenstein, and Dorian Gray.
Watch Now 
The Magicians (2015)
Description: A modern fantasy series following students at a magical university, combining dark themes, intricate world-building, and a mix of humor and horror.
Fact: The show is based on Lev Grossman's novels and often subverts traditional fantasy tropes. It features a musical episode in its third season.
Watch Now 
The Frankenstein Chronicles (2015)
Description: A Gothic crime drama reimagining Mary Shelley's Frankenstein in a gritty, detective-driven narrative filled with moral dilemmas and eerie atmosphere.
Fact: The series blends historical events with Shelley's mythology. It was initially conceived as a standalone season but expanded due to its popularity.
Watch Now 
