As someone who’s spent countless hours lost in the labyrinth of sci-fi and post-apocalyptic narratives, I must say that these shows have truly captivated my imagination. From the haunting beauty of “Snowpiercer” to the wacky survivalist antics of “Class Of ’07”, there’s a little something for everyone in this list.
Since the television industry has a longstanding tradition that when a show becomes extremely popular, similar programs follow suit, it’s not surprising that networks jumped at the chance to imitate the phenomenal success of Lost, which took off in 2004. Regrettably, many attempts to replicate its formula fell flat as they struggled to create captivating mythology or engaging storytelling, and most of these shows didn’t manage to last beyond their first season.
There are numerous TV series that could attract fans of “Lost.” Many follow a similar pattern, featuring groups of people who find themselves in an unfamiliar location and become trapped there. Others delve into captivating mythology and boast stellar casts to make them compelling. With “Lost” now available on Netflix once more, it’s the perfect time to savor the best shows inspired by it, and these 15 series are sure to delight anyone who appreciates “Lost” for its distinctive narrative style.
Once Upon a Time
Back in 2011, who would have thought that “Once Upon a Time,” with its unique blend of fairy tale characters living double lives in a small town and an ensemble of relatively unknown actors, wouldn’t make it big? Well, I was one of those who had their doubts. But boy, was I wrong! The series turned out to be a delightful surprise, captivating audiences with its intricate storylines and clever twists from the very first season.
Every season intensifies the excitement as we venture into Neverland, Wonderland, Oz, and other enchanting realms. It attracts numerous characters, including those from Frozen, accompanied by delightful special effects. The lore becomes richer and intricate, with love stories and transformations unfolding. While the final season stirred controversy, it had its merits. Among various Lost imitators, this was one of the finest, making it a captivating series to immerse in.
Streaming on Disney+
Manifest
Initially broadcasted on NBC and later streamed on Netflix, this intriguing series begins with a plane departing from Jamaica in 2013, only to find itself landed in New York City in 2018. The passengers are taken aback by the rapid passage of time and grapple with understanding their mysterious predicament. As they adapt to a world that has progressed without them, they also ponder about what has befallen them. Interestingly, they start experiencing peculiar “callings” compelling them to assist others. The time-travel aspect of the show is novel, and it skillfully portrays this intriguing concept.
The cast contributes significantly to each season, escalating the intrigue and action, sometimes delving into unexpected subjects like Noah’s Ark. As it progresses, things can become quite extraordinary, and moving to Netflix affects some aspects of production. Nevertheless, it concluded with a finale that provided answers to all questions, making it a series that took flight and successfully landed for an enjoyable journey.
Streaming on Netflix
Heroes
Despite often being ranked as a series that started strong but declined, the label isn’t entirely accurate. While the final seasons may not have scaled the same heights as the first, they still offered compelling storylines. The premise of ordinary individuals receiving extraordinary powers was captivating, and the first season showcased a complex mythology and numerous twists on par with Lost at its peak.
The initial season, featuring a star-studded cast including Hayden Panettiere, Milo Ventimiglia, Masi Oka, and Zachary Quinto (notable for his chilling portrayal of Sylar), was a masterpiece of storytelling. Despite some stumbles in subsequent episodes, it showcased gripping plot twists about superpowers and was on its way to an improved finale before being canceled. At the very least, its first season stands out for its exceptional narrative prowess.
Streaming on Peacock
Yellowjackets
One of Showtime’s most popular series in years, it begins in a manner similar to Lost, with a plane carrying female soccer players crashing in the woods in 1996. Twenty-five years have passed, and the survivors are still grappling with the aftermath as certain events from that time continue to torment them. The narrative shifts between different timelines, revealing startling twists and uncovering the reality of a particular incident, which can be quite disturbing.
The actresses are terrific in both eras with Christina Ricci, Juliette Lewis and Melanie Lynskey in the present while the younger stars do a fine job showcasing them in the past. It’s stunning to see how these women changed and it’s clear every one of them was broken by this experience. Each season is a dark ride to be sure but also a fascinating one that draws you in wonderfully.
Streaming on Showtime
The Wilds
As someone who has spent countless hours binge-watching mystery and survival-themed TV shows, I find this new series to be a captivating blend of “Lost” and “Yellowjackets.” Having grown up in a small town similar to where the girls’ plane crashes, I can’t help but feel an uncanny connection with their struggle for survival on that island. The flashbacks revealing their past lives and hidden secrets are reminiscent of my own high school experiences and the complex emotions we carry from those times.
Season 2 introduces a fresh group of characters and delves further into the enigma behind these events. It’s an engaging narrative that takes unexpectedly dark turns in its flashbacks, featuring solid performances by the actors. Unfortunately, it only ran for two seasons, leaving many questions unresolved. However, it certainly offers material that any fan of Lost would appreciate.
Streaming on Prime Video
Westworld
As a long-time fan of science fiction, I must say that the HBO remake of the 1970s sci-fi movie is a must-watch, even if it didn’t quite maintain its initial popularity. Having grown up in the era of reboots and reimaginings, I have learned to appreciate the creative twists and modern updates that these productions often bring to classic stories. This show, in particular, takes us on an exciting journey into a future where robots have become indistinguishable from humans, and the line between man and machine is blurred.
Indeed, Season 3 marks a significant drop in narrative quality compared to expectations, as the transition into reality didn’t deliver the intended impact. Moreover, Season 4 becomes excessively intricate, potentially contributing to the show’s termination. However, the performances by the actors, particularly Evan Rachel Wood and Thandie Newton, remain exceptional, earning them a well-deserved Emmy for their portrayal of Maeve. The inaugural season is worth noting due to its complexity, making it no surprise that it became a sensation – a testament to HBO’s unique storytelling abilities.
Streaming on Max
The 100
As a long-time fan of science fiction shows, I must say that this CW series stands out as one of the best sci-fi productions I have ever seen. Having grown up in the aftermath of the Cold War and the fear it instilled, the premise of a nuclear war-ravaged Earth resonates deeply with me. The idea of humanity’s struggle for survival in space is one that has always fascinated me, and this show manages to bring that concept to life in an engaging and captivating way.
1. The series is exceptionally bold, with significant characters meeting their end throughout its duration and a complex mythology developing. Eliza Taylor delivers an outstanding performance as Clarke, while other characters also deliver commendable work. The 100, from start to finish, could be considered one of the most underestimated sci-fi shows of the past ten years, and it’s definitely worth a watch.
Streaming on Netflix
From
The presence of Harold Perrineau from “Lost” makes it an appropriate choice for this list. He portrays the self-elected sheriff and mayor of a seemingly idyllic small American town. However, its charm becomes unsettling when you realize that no one can ever leave. As a family gets trapped in this town, they soon learn that the surrounding woods are teeming with dangerous creatures, trapping them further.
The central theme of this town unfolds throughout the series, as its inhabitants, confined within its boundaries, develop deep divisions along social and religious lines. Dark events occur, including character deaths, making it even more terrifying because of the unseen dangers lurking in the forest. Despite being underappreciated, this show surpasses expectations set by ‘Lost’, delivering equally captivating wild twists.
Streaming on MGM+
Dark
The German series on Netflix is now extremely popular, and it’s simple to understand why. The story initiates with children disappearing from a quaint village, which at first appears like an ordinary kidnapping case. However, things quickly escalate into time travel involving various time periods and parallel universes. All of this seems to revolve around four families who are dealing with significant problems.
As a long-time fan of thought-provoking television shows, I must say that this series is truly captivating. With its haunting atmosphere and stunning visuals, it draws you in from the very first episode. The acting is exceptional, with each actor delivering a convincing performance that keeps me on the edge of my seat.
Streaming on Netflix
Silo
Recently, a significant hit on Apple TV+, this television series is based on a novel and set in a future where Earth has mysteriously become unlivable. The remaining humans dwell in a colossal subterranean metropolis that appears precarious. Following the death of a friend, an engineer (played by Rebecca Ferguson) embarks on a truth-seeking journey that unearths numerous secrets, including the true state of affairs outside.
The series skillfully interweaves various storylines, gradually unraveling numerous enigmas. Ferguson delivers an outstanding performance as the main character, while Tim Robbins lends a powerful presence in his supporting role. Moreover, the season 1 conclusion packs an emotional punch that leaves you on the edge of your seat. As for season 2, it’s poised to surpass expectations and solidify this sci-fi gem as another standout drama for Apple TV+.
Streaming on Apple TV+
Wayward Pines
FOX has consistently produced shows that might not initially grab attention but deserve recognition for their bold choices, such as this series. After all, any production from the imaginative mind of M. Night Shyamalan is bound to be peculiar, and this show certainly lives up to that expectation. The first season follows Matt Dillon as a Secret Service agent who finds himself in an unusual town, where his former ally, Carla Gugino, appears to have been living there for years, leaving no one able to depart. The situation is already bizarre before the unexpected twist adds an extra layer of intrigue.
As a gamer, here’s my take: In the second season, I find myself immersed in a fresh set of characters headed by Jason Patric, with an even riskier narrative unfolding. The storyline remains as bizarre and intriguing as ever, and it’s only getting better! It’s a shame to reveal too much since the mystery is part of what makes it such a great watch. When combined, seasons 1 and 2 create an underappreciated horror-thriller gem that was among the most captivating FOX shows of the 2010s.
Streaming on Hulu
The Ark
During its second run, this Syfy show truly merits more viewers. Set a hundred years from now, a vessel is transporting colonists from an Earth in ruins to a fresh planet. Suddenly, a catastrophic event wipes out most of the senior crew and nearly all technicians. Essentially, those who could manage the mission are gone, forcing the lower-ranked crew members to grapple with the situation.
Instead of uniting, the team finds themselves arguing among themselves about authority, supplies, and whether to continue their journey back to Earth. The tension escalates as doubts arise over what led to this situation, and season 2 explores the struggle of these survivors. It’s a blend of science fiction that should appeal to those who enjoy stories of survivors facing unexpected twists at the end.
Season 1 is streaming on Peacock. Season 2 is airing on Syfy.
The Leftovers
Created by Damon Lindelof of “Lost”, this HBO show was widely praised by critics. Set a few years after approximately 140 million people worldwide mysteriously disappeared, the remaining population grapples with their loss while trying to understand what happened. Cults emerge, one being the enigmatic Guilty Remnant. While the first season can be quite grim and somber, it’s still recommended viewing.
As a longtime fan of J.J. Abrams’ work, I must say that Season 2 of “The Leftovers” surpasses even my high expectations. Having lost touch with the characters after the Great Departure, I was eager to reconnect with them and witness their growth in this new world. The writing is sharp and poignant, particularly in its exploration of how these characters cope with the trauma and move on from the tragedy that befell them.
Streaming on Max
Snowpiercer
In the end, the highly anticipated fourth and concluding season of this TNT/AMC series makes an intriguing continuation from the 2014 film. A plan to halt global warming goes awry, plunging Earth into a new Ice Age. The drama unfolds on a train that circles the globe, where the wealthy enjoy opulent living conditions while the less fortunate are relegated to the rear. It’s only a matter of time before class disparities ignite into full-blown rebellion.
In the second installment, we see an increase in action as another train is added and Sean Bean delivers a captivating performance as a formidable antagonist. Additionally, it presents a new subplot involving potential survivors and more intriguing confrontations. The final chapter promises to wrap up this exhilarating journey and culminate in a satisfying conclusion for a phenomenal sci-fi series that combines the essence of “Lost” with a train setting.
Seasons 1-3 are streaming on AMC+. Season 4 is airing on AMC.
Class Of ‘07
In summary, this entertaining Prime Video series from Australia, titled “The Gloaming,” offers a humorous take on the theme of isolation. After being publicly ridiculed due to her appearance on a dating program, a scientist (played by Emily Browning) decides to withdraw from society. However, an unexpected turn of events reveals that a catastrophic tidal wave is approaching Australia. Coincidentally, our protagonist happens upon her high school reunion gathering, right as the wave strikes.
As they strive to survive and return to what’s left of society, it doesn’t take long before past animosities and secrets resurface, causing the women to revert back into their old high school groups. There are moments that are amusing, with Browning, Megan Smart, and Caitlin Stasey leading a fantastic ensemble cast. The ending is enjoyable too, making it worth watching to see how even an apocalypse can’t prevent people from clinging to their high school ways.
Streaming on Prime Video
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2024-08-06 00:24