10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Years and Years (2019)

Description: Like 'Years and Years', 'Westworld' explores themes of artificial intelligence, human identity, and the ethical implications of technology. Both series are set in futures where technology blurs the line between human and machine. The narrative complexity and philosophical undertones are shared between the two.

Fact: Based on the 1973 film written by Michael Crichton. The series features an ensemble cast including Anthony Hopkins and Evan Rachel Wood. The show's title refers to a futuristic theme park populated by android hosts.

Description: Both 'The Man in the High Castle' and 'Years and Years' present alternate histories that explore the consequences of political extremism and societal collapse. The dystopian settings of both series are richly detailed and serve as cautionary tales about the fragility of democracy.

Fact: Based on Philip K. Dick's 1962 novel. The series imagines a world where the Axis powers won World War II. The show's title refers to a mysterious figure who possesses films showing alternate realities.

Description: Like 'Years and Years', 'Black Mirror' explores the dark and often dystopian implications of technology and societal changes. Both series delve into how technological advancements can disrupt human lives, often with a focus on near-future scenarios. The anthology format of 'Black Mirror' allows it to tackle a variety of themes similar to the multi-faceted narrative of 'Years and Years'.

Fact: 'Black Mirror' was inspired by 'The Twilight Zone' and aims to reflect the darker aspects of technology and society. The show's title refers to the reflective screens of devices like smartphones and TVs. An episode titled 'The National Anthem' famously features a fictional British Prime Minister in a shocking scenario.

Description: 'Orphan Black' and 'Years and Years' both explore themes of identity, cloning, and the ethical boundaries of science. The emotional stakes are high in both series, with protagonists fighting against powerful, shadowy organizations. The storytelling is fast-paced and suspenseful.

Fact: Tatiana Maslany plays multiple clones, earning her an Emmy Award. The series was praised for its strong female characters and LGBTQ+ representation. The show's title refers to the idea of clones being 'orphans' of a sort, created without traditional families.

Description: Both 'The Leftovers' and 'Years and Years' deal with the aftermath of a catastrophic event and its long-term effects on society and individuals. The emotional tone is deeply melancholic and introspective, exploring themes of loss, grief, and existential questioning. The storytelling in both series is non-linear and character-driven.

Fact: Based on Tom Perrotta's novel of the same name. The series features an acclaimed score by Max Richter. The show's mysterious premise involves 2% of the world's population suddenly disappearing.

Description: While 'The Expanse' is set further in the future than 'Years and Years', both series examine the socio-political ramifications of human expansion and technological progress. The intricate world-building and focus on systemic inequality are shared between the two.

Fact: Based on the book series by James S.A. Corey. The show was initially canceled by Syfy but revived by Amazon due to fan demand. The series is praised for its realistic depiction of space travel and physics.

Description: 'Mr. Robot' shares with 'Years and Years' a critique of modern capitalism and the vulnerabilities of societal structures. Both series feature protagonists who are deeply affected by the systems they live in and who take radical steps to challenge them. The visual style of 'Mr. Robot' is similarly distinctive, with a focus on paranoia and psychological tension.

Fact: Created by Sam Esmail, the series won multiple awards, including a Golden Globe for Rami Malek. The show's hacking scenes are praised for their technical accuracy. The protagonist, Elliot Alderson, frequently breaks the fourth wall to address the audience.

Description: 'The Handmaid's Tale' shares with 'Years and Years' a focus on a dystopian future where societal and political changes have drastic effects on individuals and families. Both series explore themes of authoritarianism, resistance, and the erosion of personal freedoms. The emotional tone is similarly intense and thought-provoking.

Fact: Based on Margaret Atwood's 1985 novel, the series has won multiple Emmy Awards. The red costumes of the Handmaids have become iconic symbols of protest in real-life demonstrations. The show's narrative is often intercut with flashbacks to highlight the contrast between past and present.

Description: 'Devs' and 'Years and Years' both explore the impact of technology on society and individuals, with a particular focus on determinism and free will. The visual aesthetics of 'Devs' are striking and futuristic, much like the sleek, near-future setting of 'Years and Years'. Both series also delve into the ethical dilemmas posed by technological advancements.

Fact: Created by Alex Garland, known for 'Ex Machina' and 'Annihilation'. The series features a haunting score by Geoff Barrow and Ben Salisbury. The show's title refers to 'developers', hinting at its tech-centric narrative.

Description: 'Counterpart' and 'Years and Years' both delve into parallel worlds and the idea of multiple realities. The series explore how small changes can lead to vastly different outcomes, much like the speculative nature of 'Years and Years'. The tone is similarly suspenseful and thought-provoking.

Fact: Starring J.K. Simmons in a dual role. The series was canceled after two seasons but has a dedicated fanbase. The show's premise involves a Cold War-era split that created two parallel worlds.