10 Shows & Movies Like Twin Peaks: The Return (2017)

Description: Like Twin Peaks: The Return, The X-Files blends supernatural elements with crime investigation, creating a unique mix of mystery and the paranormal. Both shows feature small-town settings with dark secrets and explore themes of government conspiracies and existential dread. The eerie atmosphere and complex character relationships are also reminiscent of Twin Peaks.

Fact: The X-Files was inspired by real-life UFO sightings and government cover-ups. David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson had such strong chemistry that their characters' relationship became a central focus of the show. The series popularized the phrase 'The truth is out there.'

Description: Carnivàle shares with Twin Peaks: The Return a mystical, atmospheric tone and a focus on the battle between good and evil. Both shows are set in unique, almost otherworldly settings and feature a large ensemble of eccentric characters. The slow-burning, enigmatic storytelling is another key similarity.

Fact: Carnivàle was planned to run for six seasons but was canceled after two due to high production costs. The show's creator, Daniel Knauf, had a detailed mythology planned out for the entire series. Carnivàle is known for its meticulous attention to historical detail and atmospheric cinematography.

Description: The Killing shares with Twin Peaks: The Return a focus on a central murder mystery and its impact on a small community. Both shows feature moody, atmospheric storytelling and complex character relationships. The slow-burning, character-driven narrative is another key similarity.

Fact: The Killing is based on the Danish series Forbrydelsen. The show was canceled twice but brought back due to fan demand. The Killing is known for its realistic portrayal of police work and its emotional depth.

Description: Top of the Lake, like Twin Peaks: The Return, is a mystery drama set in a small, isolated community with dark secrets. Both shows feature strong female leads and explore themes of trauma and redemption. The haunting, atmospheric tone and focus on the natural landscape are also shared traits.

Fact: Top of the Lake was co-created by Jane Campion, the first woman to win the Palme d'Or at Cannes. The show was filmed in New Zealand, standing in for the story's setting in Australia. Elisabeth Moss's performance was widely praised for its depth and intensity.

Description: Hannibal, like Twin Peaks: The Return, is a visually lush and psychologically intense show that explores the darker aspects of human nature. Both shows feature surreal, dreamlike sequences and a focus on the relationship between two central characters. The use of horror and crime elements, combined with deep philosophical themes, are also shared traits.

Fact: Hannibal is based on the characters from Thomas Harris's novels, particularly Red Dragon. The show was praised for its artistic violence and sophisticated dialogue. Despite critical acclaim, Hannibal was canceled after three seasons due to low ratings.

Description: True Detective shares with Twin Peaks: The Return a deep exploration of human psychology and existential themes, wrapped in a crime narrative. Both shows feature nonlinear storytelling, philosophical undertones, and a haunting, atmospheric tone. The use of surreal imagery and a focus on the darker aspects of human nature are also key similarities.

Fact: Each season of True Detective features a new cast and storyline, with the first season being the most acclaimed. Matthew McConaughey's performance as Rust Cohle is considered one of the best in television history. The show's opening credits sequence is highly praised for its artistic and thematic relevance.

Description: Sharp Objects shares with Twin Peaks: The Return a focus on a troubled protagonist returning to her hometown to confront dark secrets. Both shows feature a slow-burning, psychological narrative and a haunting, atmospheric tone. The exploration of trauma and family dysfunction are also key similarities.

Fact: Sharp Objects is based on the novel by Gillian Flynn, who also wrote Gone Girl. The show was directed by Jean-Marc Vallée, known for his work on Big Little Lies. Amy Adams's performance was highly acclaimed, earning her multiple award nominations.

Description: The Leftovers shares with Twin Peaks: The Return a focus on grief, loss, and the supernatural. Both shows explore the impact of unexplained events on a community and individuals, with a heavy emphasis on emotional and psychological depth. The surreal and often ambiguous storytelling style is another key similarity.

Fact: The Leftovers is based on the novel by Tom Perrotta, who also worked on the show. The series was initially met with mixed reviews but gained critical acclaim in its later seasons. The show's soundtrack, composed by Max Richter, is highly regarded for its emotional impact.

Description: Fargo, like Twin Peaks: The Return, combines dark humor with violent crime, set against a backdrop of small-town Americana. Both shows feature eccentric characters, moral ambiguity, and a surreal, almost dreamlike quality to their storytelling. The Coen Brothers' influence is evident in both, with Fargo being a direct homage to their film.

Fact: Fargo is based on the 1996 film of the same name by the Coen Brothers. Each season is a standalone story with new characters, but all are connected within the same universe. The show has been praised for its unique blend of comedy and violence.

Description: Legion, like Twin Peaks: The Return, is a visually stunning and narratively complex show that blurs the line between reality and hallucination. Both shows feature unreliable narrators, surreal imagery, and a deep dive into the human psyche. The use of unconventional storytelling techniques and a focus on mental illness are also shared traits.

Fact: Legion is based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name, but takes significant creative liberties. The show was created by Noah Hawley, who also created Fargo. Legion is known for its unique visual style and innovative use of music.