10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Utopia (2013)

Description: Westworld and Utopia both explore themes of control, free will, and the nature of reality. Both shows feature intricate conspiracies and morally ambiguous characters. The visual aesthetics are similarly lush and cinematic, with a focus on creating a immersive, often unsettling world. The storytelling is complex and rewards close attention.

Fact: The show is based on the 1973 film of the same name. Anthony Hopkins' performance as Dr. Robert Ford was widely praised. The series uses multiple timelines, which can be confusing for viewers.

Description: The Man in the High Castle, like Utopia, explores an alternate history where the world is controlled by oppressive regimes. Both shows feature conspiracies, resistance movements, and a sense of paranoia. The visual aesthetics are similarly stark and atmospheric, with a focus on creating a believable, yet unsettling world. The emotional tone is tense and suspenseful.

Fact: The show is based on a novel by Philip K. Dick. The series was the first to be produced by Amazon Studios. The alternate history premise was praised for its attention to detail.

Description: Like Utopia (2013), Black Mirror explores dystopian futures and the dark side of technology, often with a satirical and unsettling tone. Both series delve into conspiracy theories, societal collapse, and the manipulation of information, making them thematically similar. The visual aesthetics in both shows are striking, with bold colors and a cinematic feel that heightens the tension and unease.

Fact: Black Mirror was inspired by The Twilight Zone and aims to reflect the darker aspects of modern society. The episode 'San Junipero' won two Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Television Movie. Charlie Brooker, the creator, initially thought the show would be a one-off anthology but it became a global phenomenon.

Description: The Leftovers, like Utopia, deals with existential dread and the collapse of societal norms. Both shows explore how people cope with unexplained, catastrophic events, and the psychological toll it takes. The storytelling is nonlinear and often surreal, with a heavy emphasis on mood and atmosphere. The emotional tone is deeply melancholic and introspective.

Fact: The show is based on a novel by Tom Perrotta, who also co-created the series. The theme song, 'Let the Mystery Be,' was performed by Iris DeMent. The series finale is often cited as one of the best in television history.

Description: Mr. Robot shares Utopia's themes of conspiracy, paranoia, and societal manipulation. Both shows feature protagonists who uncover dark truths about the world, often questioning their own sanity. The visual style of Mr. Robot, with its unconventional framing and use of color, mirrors Utopia's bold and unsettling aesthetic. The emotional tone is similarly intense and psychological.

Fact: Rami Malek won an Emmy for his role as Elliot Alderson. The show's hacking scenes were praised for their accuracy by cybersecurity experts. Creator Sam Esmail originally intended the series to be a film.

Description: Legion shares Utopia's surreal, visually inventive style and its exploration of mental illness and perception. Both shows blur the line between reality and delusion, often leaving the audience questioning what is real. The storytelling is nonlinear and experimental, with a heavy emphasis on style and mood. The emotional tone is psychedelic and disorienting.

Fact: Legion is based on a Marvel Comics character, but is not part of the MCU. The show was created by Noah Hawley, who also created Fargo. The series features a cameo by Professor X, played by Patrick Stewart.

Description: The Handmaid's Tale, like Utopia, explores a dystopian future where society has collapsed into oppression. Both shows feature strong visual aesthetics, with a focus on color and composition to convey mood. The themes of control, resistance, and survival are central to both. The emotional tone is bleak and harrowing.

Fact: The show is based on a novel by Margaret Atwood. Elisabeth Moss won an Emmy for her performance as Offred. The series has been praised for its timely themes and feminist message.

Description: Devs, like Utopia, delves into themes of determinism, conspiracy, and the limits of human knowledge. Both shows feature a small group of characters uncovering a vast, hidden truth. The visual style is stark and minimalist, with a focus on creating a sense of unease and inevitability. The emotional tone is cold and philosophical.

Fact: Devs was created by Alex Garland, who also directed Ex Machina and Annihilation. The show was filmed on location in Silicon Valley. The score was composed by Geoff Barrow and Ben Salisbury, who also worked on Ex Machina.

Description: Tales from the Loop shares Utopia's melancholic, atmospheric tone and its exploration of technology and human connection. Both shows feature a small community grappling with strange, unexplained phenomena. The visual style is similarly striking, with a focus on creating a sense of wonder and unease. The emotional tone is introspective and poetic.

Fact: The show is based on the art of Simon Stålenhag. Each episode is a self-contained story, but they are all connected. The series was praised for its slow, contemplative pace and beautiful cinematography.

Description: Counterpart shares Utopia's themes of parallel worlds, conspiracy, and identity. Both shows feature a protagonist who uncovers a hidden truth about their world, leading to a crisis of identity. The storytelling is intricate and layered, with a focus on character development. The emotional tone is cold and cerebral.

Fact: The show stars J.K. Simmons in a dual role. The series was canceled after two seasons, leaving some plot threads unresolved. The concept of parallel worlds was inspired by the Cold War.