10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Layla (2024)

Description: Both 'I May Destroy You' and 'Layla' tackle trauma and consent with unflinching honesty. They use nonlinear storytelling to reflect the fragmented nature of memory and recovery. The series are bold in their exploration of identity, particularly from a female perspective, and challenge societal norms.

Fact: Michaela Coel created, wrote, co-directed, and starred in the series. Inspired by Coel's own experience of sexual assault. The title comes from a tweet Coel saw about a child's reaction to a Beyoncé concert.

Description: Like 'Layla', this series delves into the intricacies of modern relationships, blending romance with personal identity crises. Both shows feature strong female leads navigating love, art, and self-discovery. The storytelling is introspective, with a slow-burning tension that keeps viewers engaged.

Fact: Another adaptation of a Sally Rooney novel. The series was filmed in Dublin, showcasing its vibrant arts scene. It explores polyamory and open relationships with a rare honesty.

Description: 'Please Like Me' and 'Layla' share a candid, often awkward humor when dealing with mental health and sexuality. Both series balance lighthearted moments with profound emotional depth. The writing is sharp and self-aware, with characters who feel authentically flawed.

Fact: Created by and starring Australian comedian Josh Thomas. The series was praised for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships. Thomas drew from his own experiences with depression and coming out.

Description: Like 'Layla', 'Atlanta' blends surrealism with stark realism to explore artistic ambition and systemic inequality. Both series have a distinctive visual and narrative style, often leaving room for ambiguity and interpretation. They tackle social issues with a mix of satire and sincerity.

Fact: Donald Glover created the series and stars as Earn. The 'B.A.N.' episode is a parody of a public-access TV show. Many episodes feature long, uninterrupted takes to build tension.

Description: 'Insecure' and 'Layla' both center on young women navigating career, friendships, and love in a world that often feels stacked against them. The series are celebrated for their authentic dialogue and relatable characters. They use music and visual storytelling to enhance the emotional tone.

Fact: Issa Rae adapted the series from her web series 'Awkward Black Girl'. The show features an eclectic soundtrack curated by Rae herself. It sparked conversations about the lack of diverse representation in Hollywood.

Description: 'Fleabag' and 'Layla' both break the fourth wall, creating an intimate connection with the audience. They explore female sexuality, grief, and self-destruction with a blend of humor and pathos. The lead characters are flawed yet deeply relatable, navigating life's messiness with wit and vulnerability.

Fact: Phoebe Waller-Bridge wrote and starred in the series. The 'Hot Priest' became an instant cultural icon. Originally a one-woman play at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Description: This dark comedy-drama shares with 'Layla' a raw, unfiltered look at youth and rebellion. Both series mix humor with deep emotional undercurrents, exploring themes of alienation and the search for meaning. The visual style is similarly striking, using color and composition to reflect the characters' inner worlds.

Fact: Based on a graphic novel by Charles Forsman. The soundtrack features nostalgic 50s and 60s tunes. It was initially planned as a film before being developed into a series.

Description: 'Ramy' and 'Layla' both explore the intersection of cultural identity and personal faith. They present protagonists who are torn between tradition and modernity, using humor and heart to navigate these conflicts. The series are deeply personal, often drawing from the creators' own experiences.

Fact: Ramy Youssef based the series on his life as a first-generation Egyptian-American. The show features prayers in Arabic without subtitles, trusting the audience to understand through context. It won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Comedy Series.

Description: Both 'High Fidelity' and 'Layla' use music as a narrative device to explore heartbreak and self-discovery. The protagonists are passionate about art but struggle with personal relationships. The series have a conversational, almost confessional tone, making the audience feel like a close friend.

Fact: A gender-swapped remake of the 2000 film starring John Cusack. Zoë Kravitz's mother, Lisa Bonet, starred in the original film. The series was canceled after one season despite critical acclaim.

Description: Similar to 'Layla' (2024), 'Normal People' explores deep emotional connections and the complexities of young love. Both series feature nuanced character development and a focus on intimate relationships, often highlighting the struggles of communication and personal growth. The visual aesthetics in both are understated yet powerful, with a strong emphasis on facial expressions and body language to convey emotions.

Fact: Based on Sally Rooney's bestselling novel. The chemistry between the lead actors was so intense that fans speculated about their real-life relationship. The series was praised for its realistic portrayal of mental health issues.