If you're a fan of 'Star Trek: Lower Decks' (2020) and its unique blend of humor, sci-fi adventure, and deep-cut references to the Star Trek universe, you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and TV shows that capture the same spirit of irreverent comedy, space exploration, and ensemble camaraderie. Whether you're looking for more animated fun or live-action series with a similar vibe, we've got you covered. Dive in and discover your next binge-worthy obsession!

Red Dwarf (1988)
Description: Red Dwarf is similar to Star Trek: Lower Decks in its comedic portrayal of a spaceship crew, though in this case, the crew is the last humans alive. Both shows use humor to explore the loneliness and absurdity of space travel, and both feature a mix of sci-fi and sitcom elements.
Fact: Red Dwarf is one of the longest-running sci-fi comedy series. The show was originally conceived as a more serious sci-fi drama before becoming a comedy. Red Dwarf has a cult following and has been praised for its witty dialogue and character development.


Futurama (1999)
Description: Futurama, like Star Trek: Lower Decks, is a sci-fi comedy that follows a dysfunctional crew on their adventures in space. Both shows use humor to explore complex sci-fi concepts and feature a mix of episodic and serialized storytelling. The shows also share a similar irreverent tone and satirical take on futuristic societies.
Fact: Futurama was created by Matt Groening, the creator of The Simpsons. The show was initially canceled in 2003 but was revived multiple times due to fan demand. Futurama has won several awards for its writing and has been praised for its scientific accuracy.


Cowboy Bebop (1998)
Description: While Cowboy Bebop is more serious in tone than Star Trek: Lower Decks, both shows focus on the lives of a spaceship crew and their adventures. Both shows also blend multiple genres, including sci-fi, comedy, and drama, and feature memorable characters and stylish animation.
Fact: Cowboy Bebop is often cited as one of the greatest anime series of all time. The show's soundtrack, composed by Yoko Kanno, is highly acclaimed. Cowboy Bebop was influenced by a wide range of genres, including jazz, film noir, and westerns.


Tripping the Rift (2004)
Description: Tripping the Rift is similar to Star Trek: Lower Decks in its parody of traditional sci-fi tropes and its focus on a dysfunctional spaceship crew. Both shows use humor to explore the absurdities of space travel and feature a mix of episodic and serialized storytelling. The shows also share a similar irreverent tone.
Fact: Tripping the Rift was based on a short film that was created as a demo for CGI animation. The show features the voice of Stephen Root, who is known for his roles in Office Space and King of the Hill. Tripping the Rift was one of the first adult-oriented CGI animated series.


Archer (2009)
Description: Archer shares with Star Trek: Lower Decks a focus on workplace humor and dysfunctional characters. While Archer is set in a spy agency rather than a spaceship, both shows feature rapid-fire dialogue, absurd situations, and a mix of comedy and action. The shows also share a similar animation style.
Fact: Archer was created by Adam Reed, who also voices several characters. The show has undergone several genre shifts, including a season set in space. Archer has been praised for its unique humor and voice acting.


Rick and Morty (2013)
Description: Rick and Morty shares with Star Trek: Lower Decks a blend of high-concept sci-fi and crude humor. Both shows feature characters who are often in over their heads in bizarre space adventures. The shows also share a similar animation style and a tendency to parody classic sci-fi tropes.
Fact: Rick and Morty was created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon. The show has spawned a massive fanbase and numerous memes. Each episode features unique and often surreal sci-fi concepts.


Space Dandy (2014)
Description: Space Dandy, like Star Trek: Lower Decks, is a comedic space adventure with a focus on the misadventures of its crew. Both shows feature a mix of episodic and serialized storytelling and use humor to explore sci-fi concepts. The shows also share a vibrant and stylized animation style.
Fact: Space Dandy was produced by the same studio as Cowboy Bebop, Shinichirō Watanabe. The show features a different ending theme for each episode. Space Dandy was broadcast in Japan and the U.S. simultaneously, a rare feat for an anime.


The Orville (2017)
Description: The Orville shares similarities with Star Trek: Lower Decks in its comedic take on space exploration and crew dynamics. Both shows parody the traditional Star Trek formula while maintaining a deep appreciation for the genre. The Orville, like Lower Decks, balances humor with heartfelt moments and explores themes of teamwork and personal growth in a futuristic setting.
Fact: The Orville was created by Seth MacFarlane, who also stars as the captain. The show features several Star Trek alumni in guest roles and behind the scenes. Despite its comedic tone, The Orville has been praised for its serious approach to science fiction storytelling.


Final Space (2018)
Description: Final Space, like Star Trek: Lower Decks, combines humor with dramatic space adventures. Both shows feature a lovable but flawed crew and balance comedy with deeper emotional moments. The animation styles are also somewhat similar, with both shows using vibrant colors and expressive character designs.
Fact: Final Space was created by Olan Rogers, who also voices the main character, Gary. The show was originally conceived as a web series before being picked up by TBS. Final Space has been noted for its unique blend of comedy and heart-wrenching drama.


Solar Opposites (2020)
Description: Solar Opposites shares with Star Trek: Lower Decks a humorous take on alien perspectives and space travel. Both shows feature a group of characters navigating unfamiliar environments and cultures, often with hilarious results. The shows also share a similar animation style and a penchant for satirical humor.
Fact: Solar Opposites was created by Justin Roiland and Mike McMahan, the latter of whom also worked on Rick and Morty and Star Trek: Lower Decks. The show features a unique subplot involving tiny people living in a wall. Solar Opposites has been praised for its clever writing and unique premise.
