How to Find TV Shows That Explore the Future

Television has long been a platform for exploring the possibilities of the future. From post-apocalyptic worlds to advanced technologies, TV shows have allowed us to imagine what our world could become. With the rapid advancement of science and technology in the real world, the future is an increasingly relevant topic in popular media. However, the vast number of shows available can make it difficult to choose the ones that truly explore the future in a meaningful way.

This article will guide you on how to find TV shows that dive deep into futuristic themes. We will explore the different genres and themes that commonly deal with the future, and provide tips on how to search for the best shows based on your interests. Whether you're looking for thought-provoking science fiction, dystopian narratives, or shows that examine the ethical implications of technological advancements, this guide will help you discover the perfect TV show to satisfy your curiosity about the future.

Understanding the Types of Future-Focused TV Shows

Before you dive into your search for the best TV shows that explore the future, it's important to understand the different ways in which future scenarios can be represented in television. These shows often fall into several categories, each of which brings a unique perspective to the subject of the future.

1. Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)

Science fiction is perhaps the most well-known genre when it comes to exploring the future. These shows often take place in distant futures, where advanced technology, space exploration, and artificial intelligence have significantly transformed society. Sci-fi TV shows can range from realistic portrayals of what the future might look like to wildly imaginative depictions of alien worlds and futuristic civilizations.

Some key themes in sci-fi shows include:

• Space exploration: Shows that explore life in outer space or the possibility of colonizing other planets.
• Artificial intelligence and robotics: Stories about robots and AI that challenge what it means to be human or explore the ethical implications of creating intelligent machines.
• Time travel: TV shows that examine the consequences of altering the past or predicting the future through time travel.
• Virtual realities and simulations: Exploring futuristic technologies that allow people to experience alternate worlds.

Examples:

• Black Mirror: An anthology series that explores the dark side of technology and its potential consequences on society.
• The Expanse: A space opera set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, dealing with themes of power, survival, and human nature.
• Star Trek: A classic sci-fi series that explores space exploration, diplomacy, and the ethical dilemmas posed by advanced technology.

2. Dystopian and Post-Apocalyptic Shows

Dystopian and post-apocalyptic TV shows offer a more bleak and often grim view of the future. These shows typically depict a future where society has collapsed due to war, climate change, or other catastrophic events. Dystopian shows focus on oppressive regimes, environmental destruction, and the struggle for survival in a world that is no longer recognizable.

Some key themes in dystopian and post-apocalyptic shows include:

• Authoritarian regimes: The rise of totalitarian governments that control every aspect of life.
• Environmental collapse: The degradation of the planet through climate change, pollution, and other human activities.
• Survival and resistance: Characters who fight against the collapse of society and seek to rebuild or fight for their survival.

Examples:

• The Handmaid's Tale: A dystopian drama set in a future where a totalitarian regime controls women's reproductive rights.
• The Walking Dead: A post-apocalyptic series about a group of survivors navigating a world overrun by zombies.
• The 100: A show about a group of humans returning to Earth after a nuclear apocalypse and trying to rebuild society.

3. Utopian Futures

While most TV shows about the future explore dystopian themes, there are also shows that imagine more optimistic futures. Utopian futures often present societies that have overcome major problems like poverty, war, and disease, offering a glimpse of what could happen if humanity were to solve its most pressing issues.

Some key themes in utopian shows include:

• Social harmony: A future where humans live in peace and equality, with no conflicts or divisions.
• Technological advancements: Society has advanced in ways that improve the quality of life for all people.
• Environmental restoration: The Earth is healed, and humanity lives in harmony with nature.

Examples:

• Star Trek: The Next Generation: A future where humanity has moved beyond many of its flaws, living in harmony and seeking to explore the universe.
• The Orville: A show that blends humor with optimistic depictions of future society and space exploration.

4. Futuristic Thrillers

Futuristic thrillers often combine elements of sci-fi with suspenseful narratives. These shows focus on the mysteries of the future, uncovering conspiracies, solving crimes, and dealing with high-stakes situations involving advanced technology or other futuristic concepts.

Some key themes in futuristic thrillers include:

• Conspiracy theories: Characters uncover hidden plots or agendas that threaten society's future.
• Crime and law enforcement: How advanced technologies change the way crime is committed and solved.
• Survival under extreme conditions: Characters navigating dangerous or high-risk situations in the future.

Examples:

• Person of Interest: A show about a super-intelligent AI that helps prevent crimes in a near-future society.
• Altered Carbon: Set in a future where consciousness can be transferred to new bodies, this show explores identity, morality, and the consequences of immortality.

5. Anthology Series About the Future

Anthology series often focus on different futuristic themes in each episode or season. These shows may not necessarily follow a single storyline but instead present a variety of speculative stories about the future.

Examples:

• Black Mirror: A well-known anthology series that examines the dark side of technology and its potential impact on society.
• Love, Death & Robots: A series of animated short stories, each exploring a different futuristic or science fiction concept.

How to Find TV Shows About the Future

Now that we've established the different types of future-focused TV shows, let's dive into how you can find them. There are several ways to discover these shows, from using streaming platforms to tapping into online communities and critics' reviews. Here are some methods to help you in your search.

1. Streaming Services

Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Disney+ offer an extensive selection of TV shows that explore the future. These platforms have dedicated sections for sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopian genres, which often include futuristic themes.

Tips for using streaming services:

• Browse genre-specific categories: Most streaming platforms have genres like "Science Fiction," "Dystopian," or "Thriller," where you can easily find shows about the future.
• Check recommendations: Platforms like Netflix use algorithms to suggest shows based on what you've watched before. If you enjoy one show that explores the future, the platform will likely recommend similar titles.
• Use advanced search features: Some platforms allow you to filter shows by themes, keywords, or release date, helping you find future-focused shows.

2. Use TV Show Databases

Websites like IMDb (Internet Movie Database) and TV.com provide extensive databases of TV shows, including detailed genre classifications. You can search for shows based on specific keywords, such as "future," "dystopia," "AI," or "space exploration," to narrow down your options.

How to search on IMDb:

• Use the search bar to type keywords related to the future, such as "future," "sci-fi," or "dystopia."
• Explore lists of top-rated or popular shows within specific genres.

3. Social Media and Online Communities

Social media platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and Facebook can be valuable tools for discovering new TV shows. Many communities exist for TV enthusiasts, where users regularly discuss new releases and recommend shows.

Communities to check:

• Reddit: Subreddits like r/television, r/scifi, and r/TVShows often have threads where users recommend shows based on themes like the future or technology.
• Twitter: Follow TV critics, influencers, and hashtag discussions like #scifi or #futuretv for show recommendations.

4. TV Show Reviews and Articles

Websites dedicated to TV reviews, such as Collider, Den of Geek, and Vulture, often write articles about upcoming or existing shows that explore futuristic themes. These reviews provide insights into the plot, themes, and how well a show handles the exploration of the future.

Where to find reviews:

• TV critic websites: Read expert reviews on sites like Vulture, Collider, and The Verge for in-depth analyses of how TV shows address futuristic concepts.
• YouTube: Many TV critics and influencers post reviews of futuristic TV shows, which can give you a good idea of whether the show is worth watching.

5. Check Award Shows and Nominations

If you're looking for critically acclaimed shows about the future, award nominations can be a great place to start. Shows that explore the future often receive nominations in categories like Best Drama, Best Sci-Fi Series, or Best Writing.

Award shows to consider:

• The Hugo Awards: While typically focused on books, these awards also honor TV shows that delve into sci-fi and the future.
• The Emmy Awards: Check out the nominees and winners in genres like Drama or Sci-Fi/Fantasy for highly regarded future-focused shows.

Conclusion

Finding TV shows that explore the future can be a deeply rewarding experience. Whether you're interested in the possibilities of space exploration, the ethical dilemmas of artificial intelligence, or the consequences of societal collapse, there are plenty of shows out there that address these themes in unique and fascinating ways. By understanding the different genres and themes, and using tools like streaming services, TV databases, and social media, you can easily discover a wealth of shows that will take you on thrilling journeys into the future. Happy watching!

View Product