If you loved the high-octane action and gripping drama of 'Thunderbird' (2021), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and shows that deliver similar thrills, from explosive combat scenes to deep character arcs. Whether you're a fan of military intrigue or adrenaline-pumping missions, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Fireball XL5 (1962)
Description: An early sci-fi series with a focus on space exploration and heroic missions, sharing the adventurous spirit and futuristic setting.
Fact: It was the first Supermarionation series to be set entirely in space, and it featured a catchy theme song that became iconic among fans.


Stingray (1964)
Description: A classic sci-fi adventure series featuring advanced underwater technology and heroic missions, similar in its blend of futuristic concepts and action-packed storytelling.
Fact: It was the first British TV series to be filmed entirely in color, and it featured a unique marionette animation technique called Supermarionation.


Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons (1967)
Description: A high-stakes sci-fi series with themes of espionage, advanced technology, and an otherworldly threat, mirroring the tension and futuristic intrigue.
Fact: The show introduced a darker tone compared to its predecessors, with a protagonist who was virtually indestructible due to a mysterious alien resurrection.


UFO (1970)
Description: A sci-fi series focusing on a secret organization defending Earth from alien threats, sharing themes of covert operations and advanced technology.
Fact: The show was originally intended to be set in the distant future but was later revised to be near-future, and it featured a distinctive purple-haired female officer.


Space: 1999 (1975)
Description: A space exploration series with a strong emphasis on scientific realism and existential threats, aligning with the blend of adventure and speculative science.
Fact: The show was praised for its special effects and production design, which were groundbreaking for its time, and it featured a rotating cast of international actors.


Team America: World Police (2004)
Description: A satirical action-comedy with a focus on global missions and advanced technology, sharing the blend of humor and high-stakes adventure.
Fact: The film used marionette puppetry as a homage to classic Supermarionation shows, and it featured a controversial yet memorable musical number.


Supercar (1961)
Description: A pioneering sci-fi series featuring advanced vehicles and daring rescues, similar in its emphasis on technology and heroic action.
Fact: It was the first Supermarionation series produced by Gerry Anderson, and it laid the groundwork for the more famous shows that followed.


Joe 90 (1968)
Description: A series centered around a young boy with extraordinary abilities due to advanced technology, reflecting themes of youthful heroism and futuristic innovation.
Fact: The titular character was the youngest protagonist in any Supermarionation series, and the show featured a unique 'brainwave' technology premise.


Terrahawks (1983)
Description: A sci-fi series with a mix of action, humor, and advanced technology, reflecting a lighter yet still adventurous tone.
Fact: The show marked a return to puppetry for Gerry Anderson after a decade of live-action productions, and it featured a memorable villainess named Zelda.


The Secret Service (1969)
Description: A blend of espionage and sci-fi elements, with a focus on undercover missions and cutting-edge gadgets, similar in its mix of action and futuristic concepts.
Fact: It was the last Supermarionation series produced by Gerry Anderson, and it featured a unique premise involving a priest who was also a secret agent.
