10 Movies and TV Shows Like Constantine (2005)

Description: The X-Files, like Constantine, delves into the paranormal and supernatural, with a mix of horror, mystery, and investigative drama. Both feature protagonists who are deeply involved in uncovering hidden truths about the supernatural world, often facing skepticism from others. The dark, atmospheric tone and the blend of standalone monster-of-the-week episodes with overarching mythology are also similar.

Fact: The X-Files was inspired by real-life UFO sightings and government conspiracy theories. The show's theme music is one of the most recognizable in television history. David Duchovny (Fox Mulder) initially auditioned for the role of Dana Scully.

Description: Supernatural shares similarities with Constantine (2005) in its exploration of the battle between good and evil, featuring demons, angels, and other supernatural entities. Both protagonists, John Constantine and the Winchester brothers, are hunters of the supernatural, often dealing with personal demons while saving the world. The dark, gritty tone and the blend of horror and action are also common elements.

Fact: Supernatural is one of the longest-running American live-action fantasy TV series, spanning 15 seasons. The show's iconic car, a 1967 Chevrolet Impala, is almost as famous as the characters themselves. The series was initially planned to end after its fifth season but was extended due to its popularity.

Description: The Sandman shares Constantine's dark, fantastical elements and its roots in DC Comics' Vertigo imprint. Both explore the supernatural and mythological, with a focus on dreamscapes and the afterlife. The show's gothic aesthetic and complex characters are similar to Constantine's style.

Fact: The Sandman is based on the comic book series by Neil Gaiman, who also co-created John Constantine. The character of John Constantine actually appears in The Sandman comics and was considered for the TV adaptation. The series was in development hell for over two decades before finally being produced by Netflix.

Description: Good Omens, like Constantine, deals with the apocalypse and the interplay between heaven and hell, but with a more comedic tone. Both feature an angel and a demon as central characters, navigating their roles in the cosmic battle. The show's witty dialogue and exploration of divine themes are reminiscent of Constantine's dark humor.

Fact: Good Omens is based on the novel by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. The series was a passion project for Neil Gaiman, who wrote the scripts as a tribute to his late friend Terry Pratchett. David Tennant and Michael Sheen, who play Crowley and Aziraphale, are close friends in real life.

Description: American Gods shares Constantine's exploration of mythology, religion, and the supernatural, set against a modern backdrop. Both feature protagonists who are caught in a larger conflict between ancient and new gods, with a dark, surreal aesthetic. The show's themes of belief, power, and the supernatural are similar to Constantine's narrative.

Fact: American Gods is based on the novel by Neil Gaiman, who also co-created the character of John Constantine. The show features a diverse cast of gods from various mythologies, including Norse, African, and Hindu. The role of Mr. Wednesday was originally offered to Ian McShane, who accepted it without reading the script.

Description: Penny Dreadful, like Constantine, is a dark, gothic series that blends horror, supernatural, and psychological drama. Both feature characters who are tormented by their past and deal with demonic forces. The show's rich, atmospheric storytelling and exploration of classic horror tropes are similar to Constantine's tone.

Fact: Penny Dreadful draws inspiration from classic literary characters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and Dorian Gray. The show's title refers to the cheap, sensational serialized stories popular in 19th-century Britain. Eva Green's performance as Vanessa Ives was critically acclaimed and earned her several award nominations.

Description: Lucifer shares Constantine's themes of celestial beings interacting with the human world, particularly focusing on the devil himself. Both protagonists are morally complex characters who navigate the blurred lines between good and evil. The show's blend of supernatural elements with crime procedural and dark humor mirrors Constantine's tone.

Fact: Lucifer is based on the DC Comics character created by Neil Gaiman, Sam Kieth, and Mike Dringenberg. The show was initially canceled by Fox after three seasons but was revived by Netflix for three more seasons due to fan demand. Tom Ellis, who plays Lucifer, is actually a trained opera singer.

Description: Preacher, like Constantine, is a dark, gritty series that explores themes of religion, the supernatural, and the battle between heaven and hell. Both protagonists are antiheroes with a troubled past and a mission that involves dealing with divine and demonic forces. The show's graphic violence and irreverent take on religion are reminiscent of Constantine's edgy style.

Fact: Preacher is based on the comic book series of the same name by Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon. The show was originally in development for over a decade before finally being produced. The character of Cassidy, the Irish vampire, was originally supposed to be British in the comics but was changed for the TV series.

Description: The Exorcist TV series, like Constantine, deals with demonic possession and the battle between good and evil. Both feature protagonists who are exorcists or demon hunters, dealing with the supernatural in a modern setting. The show's intense, horror-driven narrative and religious themes are similar to Constantine's darker moments.

Fact: The Exorcist is a sequel to the 1973 film of the same name, continuing the story decades later. The series was praised for its performances and atmosphere but was canceled after two seasons due to low ratings. The show's creators aimed to stay true to the original film's tone while expanding its mythology.

Description: The Dresden Files, like Constantine, follows a supernatural detective who deals with magic, demons, and otherworldly threats. Both protagonists are cynical, wisecracking antiheroes who use their knowledge of the occult to solve mysteries. The show's blend of noir detective style with fantasy elements is similar to Constantine's approach.

Fact: The Dresden Files is based on the book series by Jim Butcher. The TV series only lasted one season but has a dedicated fan base. The main character, Harry Dresden, is one of the few professional wizards listed in the Chicago phone book in the books.