10 Shows & Movies Like The Peripheral (2022)

Description: Similar to 'The Peripheral', 'Westworld' explores themes of artificial intelligence, virtual realities, and the blurring line between human and machine consciousness. Both series delve into the ethical implications of advanced technology and feature intricate, non-linear storytelling that challenges viewers' perceptions of reality.

Fact: 'Westworld' is based on the 1973 film of the same name written by Michael Crichton. The show's creators, Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy, are known for their work on complex, thought-provoking narratives. The series features an ensemble cast including Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, and Jeffrey Wright, who deliver standout performances.

Description: 'Fringe' and 'The Peripheral' both mix science fiction with procedural elements, exploring bizarre technologies and their societal impacts. Both series feature a team investigating unexplained phenomena, with 'Fringe' focusing on fringe science and 'The Peripheral' on future simulations. The shows share a balance of episodic and serialized storytelling, with overarching mysteries that unfold over time.

Fact: 'Fringe' was created by J.J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci, the team behind 'Lost' and 'Star Trek' (2009). The series stars Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, and John Noble, with Noble's performance as Walter Bishop being a fan favorite. 'Fringe' is known for its elaborate mythology and hidden Easter eggs, rewarding dedicated viewers.

Description: 'The Man in the High Castle' and 'The Peripheral' both explore alternate realities and the consequences of different historical outcomes. While 'The Peripheral' focuses on future simulations, 'The Man in the High Castle' examines a world where the Axis powers won WWII. Both series use their alternate settings to comment on contemporary issues and the fragility of reality.

Fact: The series is based on Philip K. Dick's 1962 novel of the same name. It was one of Amazon Prime Video's first original series, helping to establish the platform's reputation for high-quality content. The show features a haunting opening sequence set to 'Edelweiss', which takes on a sinister tone in the context of the story.

Description: 'Black Mirror' shares with 'The Peripheral' a deep exploration of the dark side of technology and its potential to disrupt human lives. Both are speculative fiction that examine how future technologies could alter society, often with dystopian outcomes. The anthology format of 'Black Mirror' allows for a variety of tech-centric stories, much like the diverse implications of the peripheral technology in 'The Peripheral'.

Fact: 'Black Mirror' was created by Charlie Brooker, who initially conceived it as a commentary on modern society's relationship with technology. The episode 'San Junipero' won two Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Television Movie. The show's title refers to the reflective screens of devices like phones and monitors when they are turned off.

Description: 'Orphan Black' and 'The Peripheral' both delve into the ethics of human cloning and identity, with 'Orphan Black' focusing on biological replication and 'The Peripheral' on digital avatars. Both series feature strong female leads navigating conspiracies and questioning their own realities. The shows share a thriller-like pace and a focus on the personal stakes of their sci-fi premises.

Fact: 'Orphan Black' stars Tatiana Maslany in multiple roles, showcasing her incredible range as an actress. Maslany won an Emmy for her performance, a rare feat for a sci-fi series. The show was created by Graeme Manson and John Fawcett, who drew inspiration from real-world scientific advancements in cloning.

Description: '12 Monkeys' and 'The Peripheral' both revolve around time manipulation and its ripple effects on society. While '12 Monkeys' is more focused on preventing a apocalyptic future, 'The Peripheral' deals with virtual time travel. Both series feature complex, interwoven narratives that reward attentive viewers, with a strong emphasis on character development amidst high-stakes scenarios.

Fact: The series is based on the 1995 film of the same name directed by Terry Gilliam. '12 Monkeys' was praised for its ambitious storytelling and satisfying conclusion, which tied up all its narrative threads. The show features a standout performance by Emily Hampshire as Jennifer Goines, a character who provides both comic relief and emotional depth.

Description: 'The Expanse' and 'The Peripheral' both present richly detailed visions of the future, with 'The Expanse' focusing on space colonization and 'The Peripheral' on virtual realities. Both series are grounded in hard science fiction, exploring the political and social ramifications of technological advancements. The shows share a commitment to world-building and character-driven storytelling within their sci-fi frameworks.

Fact: 'The Expanse' is based on the book series by James S.A. Corey, a pen name for authors Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck. The show was initially canceled by Syfy after three seasons but was revived by Amazon Prime due to fan demand. 'The Expanse' is renowned for its realistic depiction of physics in space, earning praise from scientists and sci-fi fans alike.

Description: 'Travelers' and 'The Peripheral' both involve characters from the future interacting with the present, albeit in different ways. While 'The Peripheral' uses virtual avatars, 'Travelers' features consciousnesses sent back in time to inhabit present-day bodies. Both shows explore the ethical dilemmas and unintended consequences of such interventions, with a mix of action and philosophical inquiry.

Fact: 'Travelers' was created by Brad Wright, a co-creator of 'Stargate SG-1'. The series stars Eric McCormack, known for his role in 'Will & Grace', in a dramatic turn. The show was praised for its character-driven storytelling and innovative take on time travel tropes.

Description: Like 'The Peripheral', 'Devs' is a sci-fi thriller that deals with the concept of determinism and the manipulation of reality through technology. Both shows feature a mysterious tech company at the center of their plots, exploring themes of free will versus predestination. The visual aesthetics of 'Devs' are similarly sleek and futuristic, emphasizing the high-tech environments that shape the narrative.

Fact: 'Devs' was created, written, and directed by Alex Garland, known for his work on 'Ex Machina' and 'Annihilation'. The series stars Sonoya Mizuno and Nick Offerman, with Offerman's performance as the enigmatic CEO being particularly noteworthy. The show's soundtrack, composed by Geoff Barrow and Ben Salisbury, adds to its eerie, atmospheric tone.

Description: 'Counterpart' shares with 'The Peripheral' a narrative centered around parallel worlds and the intrigue that arises from their interaction. Both shows blend espionage with science fiction, featuring protagonists who navigate complex, multi-layered conspiracies. The tone of 'Counterpart' is similarly tense and cerebral, with a focus on the personal and political ramifications of crossing between worlds.

Fact: 'Counterpart' stars J.K. Simmons in a dual role, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The series was created by Justin Marks, who also wrote the screenplay for 'The Jungle Book' (2016). Despite critical acclaim, the show was canceled after two seasons, leaving some plot threads unresolved.