Unveiling the Ultimate Sci-Fi Gems for Diehard Black Mirror Fans

The highly anticipated sixth season of Black Mirror recently premiered on Netflix, offering viewers another five episodes of this beloved sci-fi anthology series. Black Mirror expertly examines the consequences of emerging technologies that humans are increasingly engaging with, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they ponder the potential realities portrayed on the screen.

This thought-provoking series skillfully utilizes science fiction to delve into themes such as individualism, human connection, data privacy, and virtual reality. With creator Charlie Brooker carefully curating each season, fans often endure a significant wait for the next thrilling installment. Therefore, we have compiled a list of 10 underrated shows that every Black Mirror enthusiast should explore while eagerly anticipating the next season.

10 Orphan Black (2013-2017)

Orphan Black revolves around Sarah, who becomes intrigued after witnessing a person who bears an uncanny resemblance to her take her own life. Motivated by curiosity, she decides to assume the identity of the deceased, leading to a series of unexpected twists. However, the heart of the show lies in the intricate dynamics and connections between the clones themselves. Tatiana Maslany delivers an outstanding performance, seamlessly embodying various characters, each with their own distinctive personalities and accents. Her portrayal is so convincing that viewers often forget it is solely one actor portraying the diverse roles. This captivating sci-fi series is a must-watch for fans of Black Mirror, especially those who were captivated by the second season episode "Be Right Back," which similarly delved into the theme of cloning.

9 Alice In Borderland (2020-)

Alice in Borderland is a gripping series that follows the journey of Arisu, a passionate gamer, as he navigates a dystopian version of Tokyo. Alongside his friends, Arisu is forced to participate in a range of intense games in order to survive. The show captivates viewers with its immersive and thought-provoking gameplay, allowing them to engage with the characters and their complex relationships. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Black Mirror's "Playtest" and "Fifteen Million Merits," Arisu cleverly utilizes his extensive knowledge of video games to overcome each challenging trial presented to him.

8 The OA (2016-2019)

The OA follows the journey of Prairie Johnson, a woman who reappears after a seven-year absence with the ability to see, despite her previous blindness. This intricate tale delves into the haunting impact of past traumas on a young woman's life. Prairie finds herself ensnared with others who have also experienced near-death encounters, as they are subjected to tests that challenge their capacity to transcend different dimensions. Through its daring narrative approach, The OA fearlessly explores themes of grief, mortality, love, empathy, and companionship, reminiscent of the distinctive storytelling found in Black Mirror.

7 Torchwood (2006-2011)

Torchwood, a spin-off of the popular show Doctor Who, revolves around a team of skilled alien hunters. Led by the captivating Captain Jack Harkness, the ensemble cast effortlessly captivates the audience. While some episodes may be hit or miss, season 3 of Torchwood, titled "Children of the Earth," stands out as an exceptionally gripping piece of sci-fi television. With its dark and gritty tone, the characters are pushed to their limits, navigating through extreme circumstances that demand their problem-solving skills. This season is an absolute must-watch for fans of sci-fi and Black Mirror enthusiasts.

6 Maniac (2018)

Maniac is a Netflix limited series that explores the depths of mental illness as its characters seek solace in a groundbreaking science experiment. Jonah Hill and Emma Stone deliver captivating performances, immersing viewers in the intricate storyline. The show delves into the concept of true happiness as the characters are transported to surreal worlds, reminiscent of Black Mirror's "San Junipero." This narrative element of escaping reality to find joy in novel experiences captures the essence of the series.

5 Solos (2021)

Solos is a captivating anthology miniseries that delves into the solitary experiences of individuals navigating the complexities of various technologies. With an exceptional ensemble cast including Anne Hathaway, Morgan Freeman, and Helen Mirren, the series showcases their outstanding acting prowess through immersive monologues set in confined spaces. Each episode explores the aftermath of failed innovations, offering a profound reflection on the interconnectedness of the human experience. For fans of Black Mirror, Solos is an absolute must-watch.

4 Russian Doll (2019-)

Russian Doll is a captivating dark comedy series that revolves around Nadia, a game developer who becomes trapped in an enigmatic time loop. After experiencing death at her own birthday party, Nadia is forced to relive the same day repeatedly. The show delves into themes of self-discovery and the need to confront past traumas. Drawing parallels to the interactive film "Bandersnatch" from the renowned series Black Mirror, Russian Doll allows viewers to navigate the time loop through a choose-your-own-adventure narrative. Similar to Nadia's journey in the first season of the show, any misstep leads the character back to the beginning of their extraordinary odyssey.

3 Love, Death + Robots (2019-)

Love, Death + Robots is a captivating anthology series comprising a collection of animated stories that delve into intriguing narratives infused with sci-fi elements. Each short film is meticulously crafted, boasting a distinct storytelling approach and animation style. From exploring alternate histories to venturing into a post-apocalyptic world through the eyes of robots, and even delving into the realm of an intelligent bowl of yogurt, Love, Death + Robots presents a compelling exploration of the intricate relationship between humanity and technology. Drawing similarities to the renowned series Black Mirror, Love, Death + Robots offers viewers the convenience of enjoying its diverse range of stories without requiring a significant time commitment.

2 Humans (2015-2018)

The TV series Humans takes place in an alternate reality where technology has advanced to a great extent, and human-like robots known as humanoids have become a necessity in every household. This show sheds light on how the human population relies on these humanoids to perform tasks they no longer wish to do themselves, relegating them to a lower social class. By showcasing these humanoids in ordinary homes, the series evokes a sense of unease among viewers regarding the potential presence of such technology in their own future. Similar to the thought-provoking show Black Mirror, Humans delves into the consequences of emerging technologies in our daily lives and their impact on the human experience.

1 3% (2016-2020)

3% is a futuristic show where the majority of the population lives in poverty, while a select few enjoy a virtual paradise. Each year, 20-year-olds have the chance to access this paradise by undergoing a series of tests, with only the top 3% making the cut. The acting is exceptional and the plot is filled with unexpected turns that keep viewers hooked as the characters navigate through the various challenges in their quest for utopia. This series is a must-watch for fans of Black Mirror, as it delves into the characters' struggles to reach this seemingly perfect world, only to uncover its true corruption.