What to Watch if You Liked Stranger Things
If you’re a fan of Stranger Things, you’re probably no stranger to mind-blowing sci-fi, nostalgic storytelling, and a healthy dose of small-town America. The show’s unique blend of action, adventure, and heart has captured the hearts of millions worldwide, and if you’re looking for more shows like Stranger Things, here are some recommendations.
1. The X-Files (1993-2002, 2016-2018)
Created by Chris Carter, The X-Files follows FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigate paranormal cases. Like Stranger Things, The X-Files explores themes of government conspiracies, alternate realities, and the supernatural.
Key differences: The X-Files is a longer-running show, with more complex characters and storylines, while Stranger Things is a more condensed, self-contained series.
Table: Show Comparison Chart
| Show | Run Time | Number of Episodes | Complex Characters | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stranger Things | 8 episodes, 34 minutes | 4 seasons | Complex | 9.5/10 |
| The X-Files | 20 episodes, 45 minutes | 10 seasons | Complex | 8.5/10 |
| Twin Peaks | 24 episodes, 44 minutes | 3 seasons | Complex | 8.5/10 |
| The Haunting of Hill House | 10 episodes, 45 minutes | 2 seasons | Complex | 8.5/10 |
2. The Haunting of Hill House (2018-2019)
This Netflix series is a more recent addition to the Stranger Things universe, but it has already proven itself to be a chilling and psychologically complex thriller.
Key differences: The Haunting of Hill House is a limited series, with only 10 episodes, while Stranger Things has multiple seasons. The Haunting of Hill House is also more atmospheric and atmospheric, with a focus on the supernatural and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
Table: Show Comparison Chart
| Show | Run Time | Number of Episodes | Atmospheric | Focused Themes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Haunting of Hill House | 10 episodes, 45 minutes | 2 seasons | Atmosphere | Supernatural, Trauma, Family |
| Stranger Things | 8 episodes, 34 minutes | 4 seasons | Atmosphere | Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Small Town America |
3. Grimm (2011-2017)
Based on the book series by Billie Piper and Stephenie Meyer, Grimm follows a homicide detective who discovers he’s a Grimm, a descendant of a line of hunters tasked with keeping supernatural creatures at bay.
Key differences: Grimm is a more traditional superhero show, with a focus on action and adventure. While Stranger Things is more focused on the sci-fi and horror elements, Grimm explores more complex themes, such as prejudice and acceptance.
Table: Show Comparison Chart
| Show | Run Time | Number of Episodes | Action/Adventure | Focused Themes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grimm | 5 seasons, 46 minutes | 80 episodes | Action/Adventure | Family, Acceptance, Prejudice |
| Stranger Things | 8 episodes, 34 minutes | 4 seasons | Action/Adventure | Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Small Town America |
4. The OA (2016-2019)
Based on the book series by Patricia A. McKillip, The OA follows a young woman who returns after being missing for seven years, with a mysterious story to tell.
Key differences: The OA is a more slow-burning, atmospheric show, with a focus on spiritual themes and the power of storytelling. While Stranger Things is more of a traditional sci-fi show, The OA explores more complex ideas, such as reincarnation and the nature of time.
Table: Show Comparison Chart
| Show | Run Time | Number of Episodes | Atmospheric | Focused Themes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The OA | 2 seasons, 8 episodes | 14 episodes | Atmosphere | Spiritual, Time, Storytelling |
| Stranger Things | 8 episodes, 34 minutes | 4 seasons | Atmospheric | Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Small Town America |
5. Pokuoy Do the Tribe (Note: Pokuoy is not a specific show, but the name of a 1990s film)
This lesser-known sci-fi horror film, directed by William Phillips, follows a father-son duo who discover an alien spaceship in their small town.
Key differences: Pokuoy Do the Tribe is a more low-budget, low-key film, with a focus on atmospheric tension and small-town America. While Stranger Things is more of a self-contained series, Pokuoy Do the Tribe explores more complex themes, such as the breakdown of family relationships and the consequences of scientific discovery.
Table: Show Comparison Chart
| Show | Run Time | Number of Episodes | Atmospheric | Focused Themes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pokuoy Do the Tribe | 1 episode, 28 minutes | 1 episode | Atmosphere | Family, Community, Fallout |
Conclusion
If you’re looking for more shows like Stranger Things, here are some recommendations that offer similar sci-fi, horror, and small-town America elements.
- The X-Files, Grimm, and The OA offer complex characters, intricate storylines, and a mix of action, adventure, and supernatural elements.
- The Haunting of Hill House and The OA also explore complex themes, such as trauma, family, and the power of storytelling.
- Pokuoy Do the Tribe provides a more low-key, atmospheric take on small-town America and sci-fi horror.
Ultimately, the best show for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you enjoy Stranger Things’ blend of sci-fi, horror, and adventure, these recommendations are sure to deliver.