19 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Fringe

Eleventh Hour is reminiscent of Fringe because both shows revolve around brilliant scientists who work with law enforcement to solve mysterious cases. In Fringe, FBI agent Olivia Dunham teams up with unstable scientist Dr. Walter Bishop and his estranged son Peter to unravel a web of unexplained phenomena. Similarly, in Eleventh Hour, a government scientist and his tough FBI handler, Rachel Young, join forces to protect people from deadly scientific experiments, poisoners, rare diseases, and environmental hazards.
However, while both shows share the theme of scientists aiding law enforcement, Eleventh Hour takes a more procedural approach, focusing on different cases each episode, whereas Fringe delves into a complex multi-verse, apocalyptic, and time-traveling story-web that spans over five seasons. Additionally, the chemistry between the main characters in Eleventh Hour, Hood and Rachel, is excellent and grows with every episode, but it doesn't imply a romantic relationship.

Beyond the Edge takes you on a journey to the unknown, just like Fringe. While Fringe is a gripping TV show that combines drama, mystery, sci-fi, and thriller, Beyond the Edge is a low budget sci-fi movie that explores the abstract subject of reaching the end of the universe. Both stories involve scientists and their quest for knowledge, but Beyond the Edge takes it to the extreme by sending a scientist and a pilot on a high profile mission that crashes through the end of the universe. It delves into the theoretical edge of modern cosmology, leaving us with abstract and non-understandable concepts. Just like Fringe, which starts as a copy of the X-files and morphs into an incredible multi-verse, apocalyptic, time traveling story-web, Beyond the Edge lets our imagination construct a wicked and far-out narration on the subject of the end of the universe.

Helix, released in 2014, has some striking similarities to Fringe. Both shows revolve around scientists who find themselves caught up in mysterious and unexplainable phenomena. While Fringe focuses on alternate universes and parallel universes, Helix takes a different approach, with scientists investigating a potential outbreak of a strange disease in an isolated research facility in the Arctic. Both shows keep viewers on the edge of their seats with thrilling plotlines and unexpected twists. However, the two shows differ in their genres, with Fringe leaning more towards drama, mystery, and sci-fi, while Helix incorporates elements of horror into its storyline. Despite these differences, if you enjoyed the intriguing and mind-bending nature of Fringe, you should definitely give Helix a watch.

Day 5 is reminiscent of Fringe in many ways. Both are TV series that delve into mysterious phenomena and keep you on the edge of your seat. While Fringe explores alternate universes and unexplained phenomena, Day 5 takes a different approach by focusing on an unexplainable epidemic that causes death when people fall asleep. The similarities lie in the thrilling and suspenseful nature of both shows, as well as the constant search for answers. However, Day 5 adds a unique twist with its dark comedy elements, providing a fresh take on the apocalyptic genre. The characters in both shows are also intriguing and well-developed, with their own personal struggles and motivations. If you loved the mind-bending mysteries and complex storytelling of Fringe, Day 5 is a must-watch. Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride through the streets of Texas, as survivors battle sleep deprivation and try to unravel the truth behind the epidemic.

Lost is a captivating TV series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Just like Fringe, Lost is filled with mysterious phenomena that will leave you guessing what's going to happen next. The survivors of a plane crash find themselves stranded on a seemingly deserted tropical island and must work together to survive. The show constantly reveals new information about the island and its inhabitants, keeping you hooked and eagerly waiting for the next episode. While Fringe explores alternate and parallel universes, Lost takes a different approach by delving into themes of destiny and time travel. Both shows have a talented cast and intriguing plotlines that will leave you wanting more. So if you enjoyed Fringe, Lost is definitely a series you should watch.

Continuum, also known as "I'll Follow You Down," is a movie that will surely captivate fans of Fringe. Both films explore the mysterious and mind-bending concepts of science fiction, with Continuum diving into the realm of time travel. While Fringe delves into the unexplained phenomena surrounding alternate universes and a brewing storm, Continuum takes a different approach by focusing on the disappearance of a brilliant scientist and the shocking discovery made years later. Although both movies share the common theme of scientists at the center of the story, Continuum stands out with its slow-building style and a brilliant outcome that is worth the wait. The acting performances, especially by Haley Joel Osment and the beloved Gillian Anderson from X-Files, elevate the movie to new heights. So, if you're craving a dose of pure sci-fi drama, with a redeeming second half and a brilliant ending, Continuum is a must-watch for you.

April and the Extraordinary World is reminiscent of Fringe because both movies explore the theme of scientists working on unusual phenomena. While Fringe focuses on an FBI agent collaborating with an institutionalized scientist and his son to solve unexplained cases, April and the Extraordinary World follows a teenage girl named Avril on her quest to find her missing scientist parents in a world trapped in the 19th century, governed by steam and Napoleon V. Both movies captivate the audience with their intriguing plotlines and keep them engaged with the mysteries surrounding the scientific experiments. However, they differ in their genres, with Fringe being a drama, mystery, sci-fi, and thriller series, while April and the Extraordinary World is an animated adventure, comedy, drama, family, fantasy, mystery, and sci-fi film. Despite the differences in genre, if you enjoyed the scientific elements and the thrilling storytelling of Fringe, you will definitely find April and the Extraordinary World an enchanting and delightful watch.

Mirage is reminiscent of Fringe because both movies explore the concept of parallel universes and alternate timelines. While Fringe focuses on a team of investigators trying to rationalize unexplained phenomena, Mirage tells the story of a woman who has the chance to change the past and save her daughter's life. Both movies delve into the mysterious and uncharted territory of alternate realities, captivating the audience with their mind-bending plots. However, Mirage takes a more emotional and romantic approach, as it revolves around the theme of love and the lengths one would go to for their family. With its gripping premise, unpredictable twists, and strong performances, Mirage is a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed the intricate storytelling and sci-fi elements of Fringe.

The Stone Council is reminiscent of Fringe, the TV series. Both involve a scientist and a protagonist working together to unravel a complex mystery. In Fringe, FBI agent Olivia Dunham joins forces with the brilliant but unstable Dr. Walter Bishop, with his estranged son Peter also lending a hand. Similarly, in The Stone Council, translator Diane Siprien adopts an Asian baby and later discovers he has paranormal powers. As she delves into his origins, she becomes entangled in a web of mysterious murders. While Fringe delves into alternate universes and time travel, The Stone Council takes a mystical approach with elements of folklore and a hidden tribe. Although Fringe has a longer runtime, both stories captivate with their intricate plots and supernatural elements. So, if you enjoyed the mind-bending journey of Fringe, you'll find yourself equally engrossed in The Stone Council's mystic tale.

Professor T. is a German crime drama series that bears a striking resemblance to Fringe. While Fringe explores the world of FBI agents investigating unexplained phenomena with the help of a brilliant but unstable scientist and his son, Professor T. takes a different approach. It follows the story of a man who is not Sherlock Holmes but rather a scientist. Both shows revolve around intelligent individuals who use their scientific expertise to solve complex cases. However, the similarities end there. Fringe delves into the realms of alternate universes, parallel universes, and time traveling, creating a mind-bending and apocalyptic narrative. On the other hand, Professor T. focuses more on the eccentricity of its characters, the humor, and the overall craziness of the situations they find themselves in. So, if you enjoyed the scientific intrigue and the unconventional dynamics of Fringe, you should give Professor T. a try.

Person of Interest is reminiscent of Fringe because both are gripping TV series with intriguing plotlines. While Fringe follows an FBI agent working with a scientist and his son to explain unexplained phenomena, Person of Interest revolves around an ex-CIA agent and a wealthy programmer who save lives using a surveillance AI that predicts impending crimes. Both shows are filled with suspense, mystery, and thrilling moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat. However, Person of Interest adds an extra layer of excitement with its unique concept of preventing crimes before they happen, making it a must-watch for fans of Fringe.

The X-Files, released in 1996, is reminiscent of Fringe. Both series follow the investigations of FBI agents who delve into the strange and unexplained. While Fringe starts off as a copy of The X-Files, it evolves into a captivating multi-verse, apocalyptic, time-traveling story-web over its five seasons. The X-Files, on the other hand, captivates viewers with the magical tension between agents Mulder and Scully, their impeccable acting, and the show's gothic atmosphere. The dialogues are memorable, with lines like "If there's an ice tea in that bag, could be love" and "Must be fate, Mulder. Root beer." Both shows boast complex and carefully created characters, but what sets Fringe apart is its exploration of alternate and parallel universes, which adds an extra layer of intrigue.

Dr. Brain is reminiscent of Fringe in its exploration of the scientific world and its impact on human lives. While Fringe focuses on an FBI agent working with an institutionalized scientist and his son to solve unexplained phenomena, Dr. Brain follows the brilliant brain scientist Sewon as he conducts "brain syncs" with the dead to uncover the truth about a personal tragedy. Both shows delve into the mysteries of the mind and the boundaries of scientific knowledge. However, Dr. Brain offers a unique perspective with its Korean setting, providing a fresh cultural experience for viewers. So, if you're ready to embark on a mind-bending journey that combines drama, mystery, sci-fi, and thriller elements, Dr. Brain is definitely worth watching alongside Fringe.

Annihilation: A biologist signs up for a dangerous, secret expedition into a mysterious zone where the laws of nature don't apply. While Fringe is a TV series and Annihilation is a movie, they both revolve around scientists exploring unexplained phenomena. Fringe starts off as a copy of The X-Files but quickly evolves into a mind-bending, multi-verse, time-traveling story-web. Similarly, Annihilation takes us on a visually stunning journey into an otherworldly zone where the laws of nature are distorted. Both stories leave you questioning reality and the boundaries of science. However, while Fringe is a series that allows for deep character development over 5 seasons, Annihilation is a single movie that packs a punch in its compact runtime. So, if you enjoyed the mind-bending aspects of Fringe and want a visually captivating and thought-provoking movie experience, Annihilation is a must-watch.

Sputnik is a thrilling cinematic experience that will transport you to the Cold War USSR in the 1980s. Just like Fringe, it combines elements of drama, mystery, sci-fi, and thriller to create an intense and captivating story. While Fringe explores unexplained phenomena and parallel universes, Sputnik delves into the mystery of a dangerous creature hiding inside the lone survivor of a spaceship incident. Both movies feature strong female protagonists and brilliant scientists who are forced to confront the unknown. However, Sputnik adds a horror element to the mix, making it a chilling and visually stunning film. The Russian influence is palpable throughout, from the setting to the iconic Russian dolls that pop up. So if you're a fan of Fringe and want to embark on a new cinematic adventure, Sputnik is definitely worth watching.

What Lies Below is reminiscent of Fringe. While Fringe explores unexplained phenomena and the collaboration between an FBI agent and a scientist, What Lies Below delves into the unsettling relationship between a teenage girl's mother and her new boyfriend, who appears to be more than meets the eye. Both movies navigate mysterious and supernatural elements within a familiar setting. However, What Lies Below distinguishes itself with its visually captivating scenes, Lovecraftian undertones, and a hypnotic synth soundtrack. Although the plot may not offer groundbreaking twists, the film's atmospheric and thrilling nature, along with the strong performances of the cast, make it a worthwhile watch.

Donnie Darko is reminiscent of Fringe in the way it takes you on a mind-bending journey. While Fringe begins as a copy of The X-Files, it evolves into an incredible multi-verse, apocalyptic, time-traveling story-web. Similarly, Donnie Darko starts with a seemingly absurd plot, where a troubled teenager is haunted by a man in a rabbit suit who manipulates him to commit crimes. However, the brilliance lies in its execution. Donnie Darko, just like Fringe, is thought-provoking, captivating, mesmerizing, and moving. Both movies require multiple viewings to fully grasp their depth. While Fringe explores alternate universes and unexplained phenomena, Donnie Darko delves into mental illness and parallel universes. If you enjoyed the intricate storytelling and mind-bending concepts of Fringe, Donnie Darko is a must-watch.

Coherence is reminiscent of Fringe because both movies explore the concept of parallel universes. While Fringe focuses on an FBI agent working with a scientist and his son to investigate unexplained phenomena, Coherence takes a different approach by presenting a group of friends gathering for a dinner party during a comet passing overhead. The similarities lie in the mysterious events that occur, causing confusion and paranoia among the characters. However, Coherence distinguishes itself by incorporating elements of quantum physics and delving into the psychological aspects of the characters, creating a unique and captivating viewing experience. If you enjoyed the mind-bending nature of Fringe, Coherence is definitely worth a watch.

Eureka, released in 2006, is reminiscent of Fringe because both shows revolve around scientists and their extraordinary adventures. While Fringe focuses on an FBI agent working with an institutionalized scientist and his son to solve unexplained phenomena, Eureka takes us to a remote Northwestern town where a U.S. Marshal becomes the sheriff. In Eureka, this cozy little town serves as a haven for eccentric scientists who secretly build futuristic inventions for the government. The similarities lie in the scientific exploration and the quirky characters found in both shows. However, Eureka brings a lighter and more humorous tone to the mix, creating a perfect blend of science fiction and comedy. With its well-drawn characters and clever writing, Eureka is a delightful show that will keep you entertained from the very first episode.