If you loved the mystical and thought-provoking journey of 'Shangri-La' (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same blend of mystery, adventure, and philosophical depth. Whether you're drawn to hidden utopias or existential quests, these picks will keep you enthralled.

Westworld (2016)
Description: Delves into themes of artificial consciousness, free will, and the blurred lines between reality and simulation, often with a slow-burning, philosophical narrative.
Fact: The show's title sequence was created using actual 3D scans of the actors' bodies, giving it a surreal, biomechanical aesthetic.


Fringe (2008)
Description: Mixes sci-fi, conspiracy theories, and parallel universes with a strong emphasis on character-driven storytelling and bizarre scientific phenomena.
Fact: The series features numerous hidden glyphs in each episode that spell out a word related to the plot, adding a layer of mystery for fans.


The Man in the High Castle (2015)
Description: Explores alternate history and dystopian realities, blending speculative fiction with deep philosophical questions about power and resistance.
Fact: Based on Philip K. Dick's novel, the show features intricate world-building with detailed alternate 1960s America under Axis rule.


Black Mirror (2011)
Description: Anthology series that examines the dark and often unsettling consequences of technology on society, with a focus on existential and psychological dilemmas.
Fact: The show's title refers to the reflective screens of devices like phones and TVs, symbolizing its themes of technology and human behavior.


The Leftovers (2014)
Description: A deeply philosophical and emotional exploration of loss, grief, and existential uncertainty, wrapped in a mysterious, almost supernatural narrative.
Fact: The show's haunting theme song, 'Let the Mystery Be,' was performed by Iris DeMent and became iconic for its reflective tone.


The Expanse (2015)
Description: Combines hard sci-fi with political intrigue and human drama, set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system but remains deeply divided.
Fact: The series was initially canceled after three seasons but was revived due to fan campaigns and support from figures like Jeff Bezos.


Devs (2020)
Description: A cerebral sci-fi thriller that explores determinism, quantum computing, and the nature of reality through a visually striking and atmospheric lens.
Fact: The show's minimalist score and use of architectural spaces create a haunting, almost meditative tone throughout the narrative.


The Peripheral (2022)
Description: A high-concept sci-fi series that explores alternate timelines, advanced technology, and the ethical dilemmas they create, with a focus on immersive world-building.
Fact: Based on William Gibson's novel, the show blends cyberpunk elements with rural Americana, creating a unique visual contrast.


Tales from the Loop (2020)
Description: A melancholic and visually stunning anthology that blends sci-fi with human drama, exploring the emotional impact of mysterious technologies on small-town lives.
Fact: Inspired by the art of Simon Stålenhag, the show's aesthetic combines retro-futurism with rural Scandinavian landscapes.


Counterpart (2017)
Description: A spy thriller with a sci-fi twist, focusing on parallel universes and the moral complexities of identity, choice, and consequence.
Fact: The series was shot in Berlin, and its Cold War-era aesthetic heavily influences its tone and visual style.
