10 Shows and Movies Like Gen V (2023)

Description: Heroes shares Gen V's focus on ordinary people discovering extraordinary abilities. Both explore how powers affect personal lives and relationships. While Heroes is more optimistic, both shows examine the societal impact of superpowered individuals.

Fact: The show's first season is considered one of the best in superhero television. Featured the iconic catchphrase 'Save the cheerleader, save the world.' The series struggled after its writers' strike-interrupted second season.

Description: The Boys is similar to Gen V (2023) as both are set in the same universe, exploring the dark and satirical side of superheroes. They share themes of corporate corruption, superhuman abilities, and moral ambiguity. Both shows feature violent action, dark humor, and a critique of celebrity culture.

Fact: The Boys is based on the comic book series by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson. The show's Homelander is often considered one of the most terrifying villains in TV history. The series has been praised for its unflinching portrayal of superheroes as flawed and often villainous figures.

Description: Misfits is similar to Gen V in its focus on young people developing powers and the personal/social consequences. Both shows blend superhero elements with coming-of-age stories, dark humor, and explore how powers affect personal relationships.

Fact: Launched the careers of several British actors including Robert Sheehan and Iwan Rheon. Features one of TV's most creative uses of the time loop concept. The show's tone shifted significantly after original cast members departed.

Description: Arrow shares with Gen V a focus on character development amid action and superpowered elements. Both shows explore themes of legacy and redemption, though Arrow follows a more traditional vigilante hero's journey.

Fact: Launched the Arrowverse, DC's most successful live-action TV universe. Stephen Amell performed many of his own stunts. The show's success revived interest in grounded, street-level superheroes.

Description: The Flash shares Gen V's focus on young heroes learning to control their powers, though with a more traditional superhero approach. Both explore themes of legacy, responsibility, and the personal cost of heroism.

Fact: Grant Gustin's portrayal made Barry Allen one of TV's most beloved superheroes. The show popularized the multiverse concept before the MCU. Features one of television's most enduring superhero romances.

Description: Preacher shares Gen V's blend of dark humor, graphic violence, and supernatural elements. Both shows feature protagonists with extraordinary abilities navigating morally complex worlds. They also share a subversive approach to traditional power structures.

Fact: Based on the controversial Vertigo comic by Garth Ennis. Features one of television's most unusual love triangles. The show includes an immortal cowboy and an Irish vampire as main characters.

Description: Legion shares Gen V's focus on young people discovering and struggling with extraordinary powers. Both shows feature psychological depth, surreal visuals, and unconventional storytelling. They explore themes of identity, mental health, and the burden of abilities.

Fact: Legion is based on Marvel's X-Men character David Haller. The show features one of the most creative depictions of psychic battles in television. Aubrey Plaza's performance as Lenny Busker was particularly praised.

Description: The Tick shares Gen V's satirical take on superhero tropes, though with a more comedic tone. Both shows feature inexperienced heroes navigating a world of established superpowered beings and explore the absurdity of superhero culture.

Fact: The Tick has been adapted three times (1994 animated, 2001 live-action, 2016 live-action). Peter Serafinowicz brought a new depth to the traditionally silly character. The show was canceled after two seasons despite critical acclaim.

Description: Like Gen V, Watchmen deconstructs superhero mythology while addressing social issues. Both feature complex characters with morally ambiguous motivations and explore themes of power, legacy, and systemic injustice. The shows share a willingness to challenge traditional superhero narratives.

Fact: This HBO series is a sequel to the original Watchmen graphic novel. Regina King's performance as Sister Night earned widespread acclaim. The show incorporated real historical events like the Tulsa Race Massacre into its narrative.

Description: Doom Patrol shares similarities with Gen V in its exploration of dysfunctional superpowered individuals. Both shows blend dark humor, emotional depth, and surreal storytelling. They also focus on characters grappling with their identities and powers in unconventional ways.

Fact: Doom Patrol features Brendan Fraser as Robotman, marking his return to mainstream acting. The show is known for its bizarre villains like Mr. Nobody and The Beard Hunter. It's one of the few superhero shows to embrace outright absurdism and surrealism.