As a devoted viewer, I can’t help but be captivated by the shows that not only entertain but also question the very fabric of our understanding. They twist and bend familiar TV concepts, forcing us to reconsider our reality. These are the series that bring existential queries—about identity, morality, perception, humanity, and truth—into sharp focus, often blending the real with the fantastical. Watching them leaves me changed, seeing the world differently or at least questioning the solidity of my assumptions.
What Makes a Mind-Bending TV Show?
As a passionate film aficionado, I find myself captivated by extraordinary television productions that defy their timeframe, employing daring storytelling methods, breathtaking visuals, and production techniques, alongside powerfully human performances to ensure their enduring relevance. Be it the examination of artificial intelligence, the intricacies of time travel, or the enigmas of human consciousness, these series continue to captivate audiences because they delve into universal questions that seem more pressing than ever in today’s world. In this article, I am delighted to share my top 15 picks of mind-bending TV shows—ranging across decades and genres—that retain their compelling allure even after their initial debut.
15
‘Humans’ (2015 – 2017)
As a cinephile immersed in the world of cinema, I’d put it this way: In an alternate reality where advanced robots, or “synths,” are part of our daily lives, assisting humanity, the series “Humans” delves into the intricacies of living side by side with sentient AI. The narrative unfolds around the Hawkins family—Joe (Tom Goodman-Hill), Laura (Katherine Parkinson), and their children—who bring home Anita (Gemma Chan), a synth that initially appears ordinary, but quickly proves to be anything but run-of-the-mill.
Unveiling Anita’s genuine character, the series expands its focus to delve into the lives of other synthetic beings, such as the mysterious and defiant Niska (Emily Berrington), and their inventor, Dr. George Millican (William Hurt), who wrestles with his intricate ties to technology.
When Machines Are More Human Than We Are
Jonathan Brackley and Sam Vincent, as showrunners, rework the original Swedish series “Real Humans,” emphasizing emotional complexity and profound questioning. Unlike other sci-fi shows, “Humans” offers a heartfelt depiction of families and societies grappling with uncharted realities. What sets this series apart is its skillful transformation of common themes—such as machines defying their makers—into profoundly human narratives.
Through skillfully combining elements of speculative narrative and everyday family struggles, it invites us to ponder the costs and benefits when our inventions surpass our own intelligence and emotions. The acting, especially Gemma Chan’s nuanced portrayal of Anita/Mia, roots the story’s profound questions in genuine emotional depth, making Humans both thought-provoking and disquieting.
14
‘Legion’ (2017 – 2019)
Legion, crafted by Noah Hawley (Fargo), reinvents the Marvel superhero realm as a groundbreaking investigation into identity and mental health. The narrative revolves around David Haller (Dan Stevens), a man who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, but uncovers that his fragmented grasp on reality is linked to his formidable mutant abilities. The characters, such as the caring Syd Barrett (Rachel Keller), the mysterious Melanie Bird (Jean Smart), and the indelible Lenny Busker (Aubrey Plaza in a pivotal role), lend emotional depth to the show’s colorful visuals and complex narrative structure.
A Superhero Show That Breaks Its Own Rules
Hawley’s guidance transforms each episode into a mesmerizing work of surrealist art, seamlessly combining elements of psychological terror, melodious interludes, and stunning visual spectacles. Notably, Lenny emerges as a symbol of disorder and danger, with Aubrey Plaza portraying her as both captivatingly alluring and profoundly disquieting. The series also subtly infuses the character of Shadow King, a villainous master of telepathy who influences David’s thoughts, skillfully played by Navid Negahban with a chilling grace.
In addition to its groundbreaking visual style, the TV series Legion delves into the subject of mental health, tackling the stereotypes and misconceptions that were once widespread and remain relevant today. By depicting David’s mental illness as a multifaceted intersection of his mutant powers and distorted reality, the show encourages viewers to reconsider their own beliefs about sanity, autonomy, and personal identity.
One captivating aspect of Legion lies in its daring defiance of genre norms, converting a typical superhero beginning into a profound exploration of perspective, recollection, dominance, and the societal structures influencing mental health. Hawley’s innovative perspective infuses each sequence with intricate puzzles, leading to a series that delights those prepared to appreciate its vagueness and thrive on its disorder.
13
‘Aunty Donna’s Big Ole’ House of Fun’ (2020)
Hailing from the offbeat humorists Mark Samual Bonanno, Broden Kelly, and Zachary Ruane, collectively known as Aunty Donna, comes a comedic sketch series that defies conventional reasoning. In partnership with Ed Helms (known for his work on The Office), Aunty Donna’s Big Ol’ House of Fun situates the trio within an otherworldly residence where the norms of reality are cast aside. Each episode takes viewers on a whimsical adventure through humor’s most peculiar realms, presenting strange and hilarious scenarios with boundless enthusiasm and unfettered quirkiness.
Meta to the Max
What makes “Aunty Donna’s Big Ol’ House of Fun” stand out is its unique blend of extreme self-awareness and bold structural innovation. Unlike traditional TV episodes, each scene follows the rhythm of a sketch, disregarding conventional narrative structures for rapid-fire comedic sequences. This style fosters an unpredictable world where unexpected events are common, consistently challenging viewer’s expectations. The show draws significant inspiration from surrealist trailblazers such as “The Mighty Boosh“, Monty Python, and “Tim and Eric“. Despite embracing absurdism, it manages to preserve a distinct identity for itself.
The trio consisting of Mark, who’s always overly bold and keeps everyone laughing, Broden, who claims to be the top dog amidst the mess, and Zach, whose dry humor cuts through the absurdity, is a lively group that flourishes on unpredictability. This TV show consistently pokes fun at sitcom conventions, satirizes audience assumptions, and even shatters the fourth wall completely, thereby challenging and redefining the very essence of television.
Featuring special appearances by Ed Helms, Kristen Schaal, and Weird Al Yankovic, “Aunty Donna’s Big Ol’ House of Fun” skillfully balances anarchy with ingenuity. The program intertwines absurd humor with a surprisingly consistent narrative thread. This is a show that not only amuses but also scrutinizes the essence of storytelling, demonstrating that even within the madness of silliness, there lies hidden brilliance.
12
‘The OA’ (2016 – 2019)
Originating from Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij, The OA starts off as a realistic puzzle that eventually transforms into an extraordinary journey through life’s meaning. The narrative centers around Prairie Johnson (Brit Marling), who mysteriously reappears after a seven-year absence, now with the ability to see and equipped with an unusual account of crossing dimensions. As Prairie assembles a motley crew of locals to hear her story and learn movements that seem beyond comprehension, the series delves into topics such as trauma, bonding, and the influence of faith. It’s a show that is just as intriguing as it is deeply affecting.
Where Reality Ends and the Unknown Begins
What makes The OA unique is its daring departure from conventional storytelling patterns. Each episode presents a puzzle-like structure, skillfully combining genres such as science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and drama, encouraging viewers to ponder what’s genuine and what transcends our grasp of reality. Marling and Batmanglij venture into thematic territories rarely explored by other shows, utilizing intensely moving performances and a profoundly spiritual ambiance to transport audiences into a realm that feels simultaneously personal and boundless.
From a movie enthusiast’s perspective, I found myself deeply immersed in the thought-provoking journey of “The OA”. It delved into the delicate nature of human existence and provided a profound contemplation on the endless potential that exists within us. The show left an indelible mark, lingering long after the closing credits, offering a mind-bending experience that continues to resonate.
11
‘WandaVision’ (2020 – 2021)
The inaugural TV production by Marvel Studios, titled “WandaVision,” has reshaped the notion of superhero narratives by seamlessly merging various genres with an impactful emotional depth that left even seasoned fans in awe. The plot kicks off with Wanda Maximoff (played by Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (portrayed by Paul Bettany), living in a sitcom setting reminiscent of the 1950s, only for their seemingly perfect life to start falling apart as the veneer of perfection cracks, revealing a much darker undercurrent. As Wanda grapples with her sorrow over Vision’s demise by shaping a fictional reality around her grief, “WandaVision” evolves into an intensely poignant examination of loss, love, and the potent influence of storytelling.
Television’s Grief-Stricken Love Letter to Itself
Jac Schaeffer, the showrunner, cleverly employs the sitcom structure not only as a storytelling tool but also as a symbol for Wanda’s fragmented mind. Each episode subtly echoes various periods in television history, ranging from “The Dick Van Dyke Show” to “Modern Family,” while simultaneously unveiling layers of Wanda’s mourning process.
The unique combination of heartwarming humor rooted in nostalgia and raw emotional depth pushes the limits of convention and showcases the inherent humanity, resulting in a series that questions established norms within superhero entertainment. Outstanding acting by Olsen and Bettany, coupled with skillful integration of self-referential narratives and character-focused plots, makes WandaVision an ode to television storytelling and a pioneering exploration of loss and recovery.
10
‘Agatha All Along’ (2024)
In a continuation of the popular show WandaVision, the series Agatha All Along delves further into the life of Agatha Harkness, portrayed by Kathryn Hahn, who charmed viewers with her mischievous and power-seeking witch character in the original series. Following the events of WandaVision, this show focuses on Agatha’s efforts to reclaim her powers amidst a supernatural landscape reshaped by Wanda’s actions. Accompanying her is an enigmatic ally, Lady Death played by Aubrey Plaza, whose character infuses the series with additional elements of intrigue, humor, and peril, enhancing its already captivating storyline.
Witches, Chaos, and Aubrey Plaza’s Menacing Charm
As a cinephile under Jac Schaeffer’s expert direction, I found myself utterly captivated by the unique blend of the whimsical charm reminiscent of WandaVision with the ominous undertones of chaos in Agatha All Along. The series delved deep into its supernatural essence, and the brilliant performances by Hahn and Plaza brought an intriguing balance of dark humor and emotionally nuanced depth to the narrative, keeping me glued to my screen.
As a cinephile delving into the world of “Agatha All Along”, I must say that this series is an intriguing meta journey at its heart. It masterfully intertwines its plot with familiar genre tropes, all while skillfully subverting our assumptions. With a captivating focus on witches, power dynamics, and the aftermath of the reality-altering events in “WandaVision”, this series not only builds upon its predecessor’s themes but also forges its own path as an unpredictably twisted, thought-provoking examination of power and self-discovery.
9
‘Sense8’ (2015 – 2018)
In a collaboration by Lana, Lilly Wachowski, and J. Michael Straczynski, Sense8 delves into the lives of eight diverse individuals who unexpectedly find they possess a mental bond, allowing them to share feelings, abilities, and wisdom globally. The primary characters – Will (Brian J. Smith), a police officer from Chicago; Sun (Doona Bae), a Korean businesswoman and martial artist; and Nomi (Jamie Clayton), a tech-savvy hacker from San Francisco – each add unique cultural and personal elements to the narrative. As they navigate their lives, they must outwit Whispers (Terrence Mann), a hunter from a clandestine group pursuing people like them.
A Global Connection That Transcends Space and Identity
In a similarly groundbreaking fashion as its topics, the structure of Sense8 is innovative. Filmed across nine different countries, the series flawlessly weaves these global settings into its storyline, fostering an authentic feeling of unity among locations. The cross-cutting method employed by the show intensifies the characters’ shared moments, particularly in fight scenes and emotional montages where their powers synchronize instantaneously.
In terms of theme, Sense8 seamlessly combines science fiction with human emotions, delving into the topics of identity and empathy via their unique “cluster.” This innovative TV series challenges traditional norms by utilizing the diversity of its characters not merely for representation, but as a crucial element in storytelling. Consequently, the emotional and cultural links among these characters become pivotal to the plot’s development.
8
‘Devs’ (2020)
Alex Garland’s “Devs” presents a meticulously crafted tale that unfolds in the ominous, dystopian underbelly of Silicon Valley. The plot centers around Lily Chan (Sonoya Mizuno), an engineer delving into the enigma surrounding her boyfriend Sergei’s (Karl Glusman) demise, who was employed at a secretive sector called Devs within Amaya, a tech conglomerate helmed by Forest (Nick Offerman). The Devs project aims to decipher a deterministic universe using quantum computing, enabling it to precisely forecast past and future occurrences. This transforms science fiction into a haunting exploration of fate versus free will.
The Code That Governs Reality
Informally, Garland builds tension by setting stark contrasts: the pristine, golden-hued interior of Dev’s lab stands in sharp relief against the untamed surroundings, symbolizing the constant struggle between human nature and technological advancement. The series shuns conventional explanations, opting instead for pointed dialogues and Garland’s chilling visual storytelling – such as the frequent appearance of a towering child statue over Amaya’s campus – to evoke disquiet.
Devs, as a show, delves into the concepts of determinism and moral responsibility, notably through Forest’s relentless pursuit of recreating a deceased loved one using technology. The methodical tempo and disjointed editing style mirrors the narrative’s underlying themes of predestination, prompting viewers to ponder if free will truly exists when outcomes are controlled by programming codes.
7
‘Altered Carbon’ (2018 – 2020)
In the futuristic setting of Richard K. Morgan’s cyberpunk novel “Altered Carbon,” individuals’ consciousnesses are stored in entities known as “stacks” and can be transferred into different “sleeves” or bodies. The story revolves around Takeshi Kovacs, a soldier-turned-investigator who is hired to unravel the murder mystery of wealthy aristocrat Laurens Bancroft (portrayed by James Purefoy). Throughout the series, Kovacs, portrayed first by Joel Kinnaman in Season 1 and later by Anthony Mackie in Season 2, employs his combat prowess and sharp instincts to traverse a world characterized by moral decay and stark class distinctions.
What Makes Us Human When Bodies Are Optional?
The structure of the series shifts between the styles of a gritty detective story and advanced science fiction, while incorporating glimpses into Kovacs’ past that enrich the plot. The show’s visual style is dominated by cyberpunk elements such as neon-lit landscapes, wet streets, and towering corporate buildings. It also features intricately designed fight scenes to underscore the bodily repercussions of a world where bodies can be swapped.
The series delves into the commercialization of selfhood and recollections, questioning if genuine humanness persists when the physical form transforms into a mere asset. Its complex construction of settings and moral complexity ensures that every installment presents a conundrum, compelling viewers to ponder the ethical consequences of digital longevity.
6
‘Yellowjackets’ (2021 – Present)
The series titled “Yellowjackets” unfolds a narrative by merging two time periods: one following a high school girls’ soccer team who experience a catastrophic plane crash in the wilderness and their lives decades later as adults grappling with the consequences. Actresses like Melanie Lynskey, Sophie Nélisse, Tawny Cypress, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Christina Ricci, and Sammi Hanratty portray the characters of Shauna, Taissa, and Misty in their teenage and adult forms. As the survivors struggle with chaos in the wilderness and hidden truths emerge in the present day, the show delves into the delicate nature of group relationships and the lasting impact of trauma on individuals.
Survival, Trauma, and the Monsters We Become
Yellowjackets weaves together survival drama, psychological horror, and mystery, employing a nonlinear narrative to keep things suspenseful and blur the boundaries between the supernatural and mental turmoil. The series skillfully employs character-driven flashbacks and unsettling symbolism, like the enigmatic antler queen figure, leaving viewers pondering the truth behind the events that unfolded in the woods.
In my humble opinion as a movie connoisseur, “Yellowjackets” masterfully redefines survival narratives, shifting the focus from the ominous perils of the wilderness to the chilling possibilities lurking within each character. This gripping series skillfully intertwines gut-wrenching terror with profound emotional resonance, resulting in a haunting exploration of guilt, power dynamics, and the extreme measures we’re willing to take to endure.
5
‘Archive 81’ (2022)
Archive 81, inspired by the podcast of the same name, centers around Dan Turner (Mamoudou Athie), a man employed to restore a set of videotapes from the ’90s. As Dan unravels the tale of Melody Pendras (Dina Shihabi), a filmmaker probing a cult, he encounters chilling parallels between her realm and his own. The series masterfully combines found footage, psychological terror, and cosmic enigma, ensnaring viewers in its eerie narrative.
Lost Footage and Found Nightmares
The unique aspect of Archive 81 lies in its clever blending of style. The gritty, piecemeal video recordings contrast sharply with Dan’s cold, secluded office environment, creating a chilling duality. The series skillfully merges timelines and dimensions, crafting a complex narrative that intertwines reality and recollections. It explores themes such as obsession and the human instinct to reveal hidden facts, despite potential peril. By incorporating Lovecraftian horror elements and fostering an air of subtle fear, Archive 81 provides a novel perspective on the found footage genre, transforming the act of viewing into an unsettling experience.
4
‘Love, Death, and Robots’ (2019 – Present)
A collection of standalone stories titled “Love, Death & Robots,” co-produced by Tim Miller and David Fincher, delves into the complexities where technology meets humanity and the enigmatic. Each story is unique in its animation style and tone, spanning from lifelike sci-fi adventures like “Beyond the Aquila Rift” to comical, surreal tales such as “When the Yogurt Took Over.” The show covers a broad spectrum of themes, including AI, post-apocalyptic living, and the dread of existence.
Short Form, Infinite Possibilities
The show excels in its innovative approach to narrative, leveraging the versatility of animation to break new ground in storytelling. For instance, episodes like “Zima Blue” delve into profound questions about art and self, while “The Witness” offers visually stunning experiences through cutting-edge, avant-garde animation. The variety of themes is mirrored by its dynamic tone, moving effortlessly between biting satire and heartfelt poignancy. What sets this show apart is its fearlessness in taking risks, resulting in a series of short films that frequently outshine full-length productions, pushing the boundaries of what animated storytelling can accomplish.
3
‘Watchmen’ (2020)
Damon Lindelof’s Watchmen functions as both a continuation and an innovative reinvention of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’ renowned graphic novel in the realm of superheroes. Set in a timeframe following the occurrences of the initial story, the series revolves around Angela Abar (Regina King), a police officer dwelling in a racially tense alternate universe where white supremacy and masked vigilantism intersect. The plot intertwines real-world events, like the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, with fantastical elements such as Dr. Manhattan’s divine influence and the ominous activities of the Seventh Kavalry.
Superheroes, Racism, and the Weight of Legacy
In Watchmen, the story unfolds in a unique way by weaving together flashbacks, alternate realities, and dreamlike scenes. This innovative approach to storytelling puzzles the viewer’s perception of time and recollection. It delves into the impact of past wounds and the societal systems that reinforce inequality, employing the superhero setting to scrutinize systemic racism, intergenerational suffering, and the ethics behind masked vigilantism.
These episodes, titled “A God Walks Into Abar” and “This Extraordinary Being”, break new ground in storytelling by employing unique narrative structures and exploring profound emotions. The intricate scripting, stunning visuals, and exceptional acting, notably Regina King’s powerhouse performance, cause Watchmen to reimagine the superhero genre as a platform for social commentary, challenging its conventions.
2
‘Twin Peaks’ (1990 – 1991, 2017)
David Lynch and Mark Frost’s “Twin Peaks” is a bizarre voyage into the enigmatic, initially presented as a murder mystery concerning Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee) and subsequently evolving into an examination of good, evil, and the human mind. The series takes place in what appears to be a tranquil small town, where FBI agent Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan) is investigating Laura’s death, revealing the sinister undercurrents hidden beneath. In 2017, the revival titled “Twin Peaks: The Return” takes this narrative to new heights, transforming it into a fractured, dream-like exploration of time, self, and recollection.
The Lynchian Dreamscape That Redefined Television
In simpler terms, the show “Twin Peaks” broke traditional TV rules by combining elements from soap operas, noir movies, and horror with a touch of the surreal. David Lynch’s unique style, which includes long pauses, odd humor, and disturbing visuals, creates a world that feels both recognizable and strange. The sequel series “The Return” adds to this by challenging viewers with its unconventional storytelling techniques, like the nearly dialogue-less “Part 8“, which delves into the roots of evil during the atomic era.
As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but delve deep into the intriguing world of “Twin Peaks.” This captivating series seamlessly blends the realms of dreams and reality, offering a narrative that’s as dreamlike as it is gripping. Its impact on modern television is truly immeasurable, as it boldly redefined what TV can be – transforming it into an art form with the complexity and ambition typically associated with cinema.
1
‘Severance’ (2022 – Present)
Titled “Severance“, this captivating series was brought to life by Dan Erickson and skillfully directed by Ben Stiller. It delves deep into the eerie realm of corporate power dynamics and the disintegration of individual identity. The narrative revolves around Mark Scout, portrayed by Adam Scott, a character whose recollections are physically separated between his private and professional lives. In the setting of Lumon Industries, individuals like Mark lead double lives: “innies” who are unaware of anything beyond their workplace and “outies” who remain clueless about their in-office existence. As Mark starts to ponder the morality and objective behind the severance process, the series gradually reveals a complex web of corporate secrets and ominous feelings of dread.
Corporate Dystopia at the Edge of Identity
In a more relaxed and understandable manner: Severance stands out due to its intricate set design, where the cold, maze-like offices of Lumon Industries intensify the sense of oppression. The storyline reflects the mental confusion of the characters, combining corporate criticism with elements of psychological terror. It delves into the commercialization of identity and the dehumanizing aspects of contemporary work environments, sparking discussions about autonomy, recollections, and what constitutes being complete.
In a captivating portrayal that highlights the emotional turmoil of the character Mark, Adam Scott gives a performance that could be career-defining. The series Severance skillfully explores the theme of control and individuality within a corporate dystopia, using sharp writing and an unsettling, nearly sterile atmosphere to create a thought-provoking introspection.
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2025-01-20 03:05