If you enjoyed the gripping suspense and intense action of 'Hydra' (2019), you're probably craving more films and shows that deliver the same adrenaline rush. This article is your ultimate guide to 10 similar movies and TV series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you loved the psychological depth, the high-stakes drama, or the relentless tension, we've got recommendations that will satisfy your craving for more thrilling entertainment.

Twin Peaks (1990)
Description: 'Twin Peaks' shares 'Hydra's' enigmatic storytelling and surreal atmosphere. Both series delve into the supernatural lurking beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary settings. The themes of doppelgängers and alternate realities in 'Twin Peaks' resonate with 'Hydra's' exploration of parallel existences and hidden truths.
Fact: David Lynch initially turned down the offer to direct 'Twin Peaks', but changed his mind after co-creator Mark Frost sent him a postcard with the now-famous line: 'She's dead. Wrapped in plastic.' The show's iconic Red Room scenes were inspired by Lynch's experiences with transcendental meditation. The character of Laura Palmer was originally intended to remain a mystery, but network pressure forced the reveal of her killer in season


The X-Files (1993)
Description: 'The X-Files' shares 'Hydra's' blend of paranormal investigation and government conspiracy. Both series feature protagonists uncovering hidden truths while navigating shadowy organizations. The mix of monster-of-the-week episodes with overarching mythology in 'The X-Files' parallels 'Hydra's' structure, and both explore themes of trust and deception in high-stakes scenarios.
Fact: The famous 'I Want to Believe' poster in Mulder's office was a last-minute addition, purchased from a poster store near the set. David Duchovny's contract originally only required him to work 13 episodes per season, leading to his frequent abductions in the plot. The show's iconic theme music was composed by Mark Snow in just 15 minutes.


Westworld (2016)
Description: Like 'Hydra', 'Westworld' explores themes of memory, identity, and the nature of reality. Both series feature complex narratives with multiple timelines and perspectives, challenging viewers to piece together the truth. The philosophical questions raised about consciousness and free will in 'Westworld' mirror 'Hydra's' existential themes.
Fact: The show's title sequence features a player piano creating a human hand, symbolizing the creation of life. Anthony Hopkins prepared for his role by studying how AI researchers approach their work. The park's map changes slightly between seasons to reflect narrative developments.


Fringe (2008)
Description: Like 'Hydra', 'Fringe' explores complex sci-fi themes involving parallel universes, secret experiments, and government conspiracies. Both series blend procedural elements with overarching mythology, creating a mix of standalone episodes and serialized storytelling. The show's dark tone and exploration of fringe science mirror 'Hydra's' mysterious and unsettling atmosphere.
Fact: 'Fringe' was created by J.J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci, the same team behind 'Lost' and 'Star Trek'. The character of Walter Bishop was inspired by real-life scientist John Lilly, known for his work on dolphin communication and sensory deprivation tanks. The show features numerous Easter eggs and hidden references to classic sci-fi works.


The Man in the High Castle (2015)
Description: Similar to 'Hydra', 'The Man in the High Castle' explores alternate realities and the consequences of historical divergence. Both series feature shadowy organizations manipulating events behind the scenes, and protagonists uncovering disturbing truths. The tension between resistance and compliance in 'High Castle' mirrors 'Hydra's' themes of rebellion against oppressive systems.
Fact: The show's opening sequence features a reversed version of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' to reflect the alternate history. Production designers used real Nazi architectural plans to create authentic-looking sets. The series was initially developed for the BBC before being picked up by Amazon.


Black Mirror (2011)
Description: Similar to 'Hydra', 'Black Mirror' examines the dark side of technology and its impact on human psychology. Both series present thought-provoking, often disturbing scenarios that challenge our perception of reality. The anthology format of 'Black Mirror' allows for diverse explorations of themes also present in 'Hydra', such as memory manipulation and alternate timelines.
Fact: The title 'Black Mirror' refers to the dark, reflective surface of our screens when turned off. Creator Charlie Brooker initially conceived the show as a more traditional comedy before developing its darker tone. The episode 'San Junipero' was the first 'Black Mirror' story with a happy ending, winning two Emmy Awards.


The Leftovers (2014)
Description: 'The Leftovers' shares 'Hydra's' exploration of trauma and the unexplained. Both series deal with the psychological impact of extraordinary events and the human need to find meaning in chaos. The surreal, dreamlike quality of 'The Leftovers' matches 'Hydra's' atmospheric storytelling, and both shows leave certain mysteries intentionally unresolved.
Fact: The show's opening theme changes slightly each episode to reflect that episode's themes. Justin Theroux performed most of his own stunts, including the bridge jump in season The Guilty Remnant's white clothing and cigarettes were inspired by director Peter Berg's observations of addiction recovery groups.


12 Monkeys (2015)
Description: Like 'Hydra', '12 Monkeys' deals with time travel, conspiracy theories, and the manipulation of history. Both series feature protagonists trying to prevent apocalyptic futures while uncovering hidden truths. The complex, puzzle-like narrative structure of '12 Monkeys' mirrors 'Hydra's' layered storytelling, with both shows rewarding careful attention to detail.
Fact: The series finale was designed to answer every major question from the entire run. The show's writers created an elaborate timeline spanning thousands of years to maintain consistency. Several actors from the original 1995 film make cameo appearances in the series.


Legion (2017)
Description: 'Legion' mirrors 'Hydra's' psychedelic visual style and unreliable narration. Both series play with perception and memory, often leaving viewers uncertain about what's real. The exploration of mental illness as both burden and power in 'Legion' connects with 'Hydra's' psychological depth, and both feature protagonists with fragmented identities.
Fact: The show's unique visual style was inspired by 1960s and 70s European cinema. Dan Stevens learned to dance for his role, performing the elaborate dance sequence in season 1 himself. The series features numerous Easter eggs connecting it to the broader X-Men universe.


Counterpart (2017)
Description: 'Counterpart' shares 'Hydra's' focus on parallel worlds and doppelgängers, exploring how small differences can lead to vastly divergent realities. Both series feature espionage elements and moral ambiguity, with characters navigating complex webs of deception. The cold war aesthetic of 'Counterpart' matches 'Hydra's' atmospheric tension.
Fact: J.K. Simmons performed scenes with his counterpart by acting against a tennis ball, which was later replaced with his double. The show's Berlin setting was inspired by the city's real history as a Cold War flashpoint. Creator Justin Marks originally conceived the story as a feature film before adapting it for television.
