10 Shows & Movies Like The Strain (2014)

Description: The Passage shares The Strain's focus on a viral outbreak that creates vampire-like creatures. Both series explore the ethical dilemmas of scientific experimentation and the fight for survival in a world on the brink of collapse. The emotional and psychological depth of the characters is a key similarity.

Fact: The Passage is based on the novel trilogy by Justin Cronin. The show stars Mark-Paul Gosselaar and Saniyya Sidney. It was canceled after one season but remains a cult favorite for its unique take on the vampire genre.

Description: Similar to The Strain (2014), The Walking Dead explores themes of survival in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by creatures (zombies in this case). Both shows focus on a group of survivors trying to navigate a world where society has collapsed, blending horror with human drama. The visual aesthetics of decay and tension are prominent in both series.

Fact: The Walking Dead is based on the comic book series of the same name by Robert Kirkman. The show has spawned multiple spin-offs, including Fear the Walking Dead. It was one of the most-watched television series of all time during its peak.

Description: The Last Ship shares The Strain's theme of a global pandemic threatening humanity, though the former deals with a viral outbreak rather than supernatural creatures. Both shows focus on a group of protagonists working against time to find a cure or solution, blending action, drama, and suspense.

Fact: The Last Ship is based on the 1988 novel of the same name by William Brinkley. The show stars Eric Dane as the captain of a naval destroyer. It ran for five seasons and explored various geopolitical and survival scenarios.

Description: Helix, like The Strain, revolves around a deadly virus with supernatural or sci-fi elements. Both series feature a team of experts trying to contain the outbreak, with a mix of horror, mystery, and scientific intrigue. The claustrophobic and tense atmosphere is a common thread.

Fact: Helix was created by Cameron Porsandeh and produced by Ronald D. Moore. The show is set in a remote Arctic research facility. It was canceled after two seasons but developed a dedicated fanbase.

Description: The Returned shares The Strain's supernatural horror elements and small-town setting where strange occurrences unfold. Both series blend mystery, drama, and horror, with a focus on how communities react to inexplicable events. The atmospheric tension and emotional depth are comparable.

Fact: The Returned is an American adaptation of the French series Les Revenants. The show explores the return of deceased loved ones and the chaos that ensues. It was canceled after one season but is praised for its haunting tone and storytelling.

Description: Fear the Walking Dead shares The Strain's focus on the initial outbreak of a global catastrophe, showing society's collapse in real-time. Both series delve into the psychological and emotional toll on characters as they face an overwhelming threat. The tension and horror elements are similarly intense.

Fact: Fear the Walking Dead is a spin-off of The Walking Dead. It initially takes place in Los Angeles, offering a different urban setting compared to its predecessor. The show explores the early days of the zombie apocalypse, providing a fresh perspective on the franchise.

Description: Z Nation, like The Strain, combines horror with action and dark humor. Both series feature a diverse group of survivors battling against monstrous threats (zombies in Z Nation, vampires in The Strain). The shows also share a mix of intense action sequences and character-driven storytelling.

Fact: Z Nation was created by Karl Schaefer and Craig Engler. The show is known for its over-the-top and sometimes comedic take on the zombie genre. It ran for five seasons and developed a cult following.

Description: Van Helsing parallels The Strain in its depiction of a world dominated by vampires and the few humans fighting back. Both series blend horror, action, and fantasy, with strong female leads leading the charge against the supernatural threat. The dark, gritty visuals are also similar.

Fact: Van Helsing is loosely based on the graphic novel Helsing by Zenescope Entertainment. The show stars Kelly Overton as Vanessa Van Helsing. It ran for five seasons and explored a post-apocalyptic world overrun by vampires.

Description: The Mist, like The Strain, delves into the horror of an otherworldly threat enveloping a community. Both series explore how people react under extreme pressure, often turning on each other. The eerie, suspenseful atmosphere and moral dilemmas are central to both shows.

Fact: The Mist is based on the novella by Stephen King. The show was a reimagining of the 2007 film adaptation. It was canceled after one season but is remembered for its intense storytelling and character dynamics.

Description: Black Summer mirrors The Strain's relentless pace and high-stakes survival scenarios. Both shows emphasize the chaos and brutality of a world overrun by deadly creatures. The cinematography and tension-building are comparable, with both series using visual storytelling to heighten the horror.

Fact: Black Summer is a spin-off of Z Nation but takes a more serious and gritty approach. The show is praised for its intense, fast-paced action and minimal dialogue. It was released on Netflix and quickly gained a following for its unique take on the zombie genre.