10 Shows and Movies Similar to Legion (2017)

Description: 'Twin Peaks' is a major influence on 'Legion', particularly in its use of surrealism, dream logic, and psychological horror. Both shows blend genres and subvert audience expectations with their unconventional storytelling. The eerie, otherworldly atmosphere of 'Twin Peaks' is mirrored in 'Legion's' aesthetic.

Fact: 'Twin Peaks' was created by David Lynch and Mark Frost. The show was revived in 2017 for a third season, 25 years after its original run. It stars Kyle MacLachlan as FBI Agent Dale Cooper.

Description: 'Westworld' and 'Legion' both explore themes of identity, consciousness, and reality. The shows use nonlinear storytelling and philosophical questions to challenge viewers. The high-concept sci-fi elements and intricate plotting of 'Westworld' are reminiscent of 'Legion's' narrative complexity.

Fact: 'Westworld' is based on the 1973 film written by Michael Crichton. The show was created by Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy. It features an ensemble cast including Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, and Ed Harris.

Description: While 'The Boys' is more grounded in its approach compared to 'Legion', both series deconstruct the superhero genre, presenting flawed, complex characters. They share a dark tone and explore themes of power, corruption, and morality. The visual style of 'The Boys' also incorporates surreal and graphic elements reminiscent of 'Legion'.

Fact: 'The Boys' is based on the comic book series by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson. The show was developed by Eric Kripke, who also created 'Supernatural'. It features a standout performance by Antony Starr as Homelander, a twisted take on Superman.

Description: Like 'Legion', 'American Gods' is a visually stunning series that explores themes of identity, belief, and reality. Both shows use surreal imagery and nonlinear storytelling to delve into the psyches of their characters. The mythological and psychological elements in 'American Gods' resonate with the fantastical aspects of 'Legion'.

Fact: 'American Gods' is based on the novel by Neil Gaiman. The show features an ensemble cast including Ian McShane, Ricky Whittle, and Gillian Anderson. It was originally developed by Bryan Fuller and Michael Green, who also worked on 'Hannibal'.

Description: 'Black Mirror' and 'Legion' both examine the darker aspects of humanity and technology, though 'Black Mirror' does so through an anthology format. Both shows employ striking visuals and thought-provoking narratives to explore existential and psychological themes. The dystopian tone of 'Black Mirror' resonates with the unsettling atmosphere of 'Legion'.

Fact: 'Black Mirror' was created by Charlie Brooker. The show has featured notable episodes like 'San Junipero' and 'USS Callister'. It has won multiple Emmy Awards for its writing and performances.

Description: 'Hannibal' and 'Legion' both delve into the human psyche with a focus on mental illness and perception. The shows share a visually lush and stylized approach, with 'Hannibal's' culinary horror paralleling 'Legion's' surreal visuals. Both series also feature complex, morally ambiguous characters.

Fact: 'Hannibal' is based on the characters from Thomas Harris's novels. The show was developed by Bryan Fuller, who also worked on 'American Gods'. It stars Mads Mikkelsen as Hannibal Lecter and Hugh Dancy as Will Graham.

Description: 'The Leftovers' shares 'Legion's' focus on trauma, loss, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Both series employ a slow-burn narrative style and surreal elements to explore their characters' inner lives. The emotional intensity and philosophical undertones of 'The Leftovers' are akin to those in 'Legion'.

Fact: 'The Leftovers' is based on the novel by Tom Perrotta. The show was created by Damon Lindelof, co-creator of 'Lost'. It stars Justin Theroux, Carrie Coon, and Christopher Eccleston.

Description: 'Mr. Robot' shares 'Legion's' focus on a protagonist with a fractured psyche and unreliable narration. Both shows use visual and narrative techniques to blur the line between reality and delusion. The themes of paranoia, control, and rebellion in 'Mr. Robot' align with those in 'Legion'.

Fact: 'Mr. Robot' was created by Sam Esmail. The show stars Rami Malek, who won an Emmy for his performance as Elliot Alderson. It is known for its accurate depiction of hacking and cybersecurity.

Description: 'Preacher' shares 'Legion's' penchant for blending the supernatural with psychological depth and dark humor. Both shows feature protagonists with extraordinary abilities who struggle with their identities and pasts. The surreal and often grotesque visuals in 'Preacher' echo the dreamlike quality of 'Legion'.

Fact: 'Preacher' is based on the Vertigo comic series by Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon. The show was developed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, known for their work on 'Superbad' and 'This Is the End'. It stars Dominic Cooper, Ruth Negga, and Joseph Gilgun in lead roles.

Description: Similar to 'Legion', 'Doom Patrol' blends superhero elements with deep psychological and surreal storytelling. Both shows explore themes of mental illness, identity, and reality through unconventional narratives and visually striking aesthetics. The characters in both series grapple with their powers and past traumas in unique, often bizarre ways.

Fact: 'Doom Patrol' is based on the DC Comics team of the same name, known for its offbeat and dysfunctional characters. The show features Brendan Fraser as the voice of Robotman, marking his return to mainstream media. It is part of the DC Universe streaming service's original programming.