The Best New Sci-fi Shows Of 2020
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Vote up the best science fiction television shows that premiered their first season in 2020.
- Video: YouTube
1393 VOTESIn a distant future, androids known as Mother (Amanda Collin) and Father (Abubakar Salim) are tasked with raising human children on a mysterious planet, as part of an ambitious project to save humanity from extinction. Raised by Wolves, a thought-provoking sci-fi series, delves into complex themes such as faith, survival, and the essence of human nature. Created by Aaron Guzikowski and executive produced by Ridley Scott, the show has garnered critical acclaim for its riveting storytelling, stunning visuals, and exceptional performances. With numerous award nominations under its belt, Raised by Wolves challenges viewers to ponder the very fabric of human existence. - Video: YouTube
2306 VOTESIn a brilliantly crafted futuristic setting, Upload explores the intriguing concept of digital afterlife. The show has garnered critical acclaim for its seamless blend of comedy, drama, and thought-provoking insights into technology's impact on human existence. Nathan Brown (played by Robbie Amell) finds himself navigating an artificial world after his untimely demise, while grappling with the complexities of love, ethics, and corporate greed. This genre-defying series has earned multiple award nominations, including the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are treated to a compelling, character-driven story that continually challenges perceptions of life, death, and the ever-evolving digital landscape. - Video: YouTube
3167 VOTESBrave New World, which premiered on July 15, 2020, plunges viewers into a dystopian future where society is engineered into caste systems and induced happiness masks a lack of personal freedom. The series is based on Aldous Huxley's seminal novel, and features a notable cast including Alden Ehrenreich, Jessica Brown Findlay, and Harry Lloyd, who bring a new dimension to the classic tale of conformity versus individuality. Its themes dig into the control of technology over life, the price of stability versus chaos, and the human pursuit of genuine connection in a superficial world. Although the series was met with a mixed reception, its ambitious reimagining of Huxley's visionary world earned it recognition for its visual flair and thematic depth. - Video: YouTube
4445 VOTESRetired admiral Jean-Luc Picard steps into the next chapter of his life. - Photo: Alice in Borderland543 VOTESIn a realm where survival hinges on strategy and wit, Alice in Borderland thrusts its viewers into a high-stakes alternate reality. The suspenseful drama series, adapted from the popular manga by Haro Aso, has garnered critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and visual prowess. With Ryohei Arisu (Kento Yamazaki) at the center of this otherworldly chaos, the show unravels the character's desperate attempts to return to normalcy while navigating life-threatening games. Alongside fellow participants, they are compelled to confront their deepest fears and darkest secrets. This psychological thriller has earned accolades for its ensemble cast, including a nomination for Best Newcomer at the 2020 Tokyo Drama Awards.
- Video: YouTube
6289 VOTESSet in a dystopian, frozen world, Snowpiercer chronicles the remnants of humanity as they traverse the globe on a perpetually moving train. The series, adapted from the critically acclaimed film and graphic novel, delves into the complex socio-political hierarchy that exists within the train's 1001 cars. Highlighting the struggle for power and survival, the show features compelling performances by Jennifer Connelly as Melanie Cavill, the voice of the train, and Daveed Diggs as Andre Layton, a former detective turned revolutionary. With its gripping narrative and thought-provoking themes, Snowpiercer has earned a dedicated following and critical acclaim, solidifying its place as a must-watch television series. - Video: YouTube
7149 VOTESA plane full of passengers must travel at night to avoid the sun's destructive power. - Video: YouTube
8227 VOTESAvenue 5, a comedic foray into the realm of space travel, takes viewers on an unexpectedly prolonged voyage aboard a luxurious space cruise ship. With creator Armando Iannucci at the helm, this HBO series deftly navigates a fine line between humor and calamity. The ensemble cast, led by Hugh Laurie as Captain Ryan Clark, brings life to a motley crew of passengers and staff facing unexpected challenges in the vast expanse of space. Nominated for a Primetime Emmy, Avenue 5 boasts a perfect balance of wit and satire, while subtly critiquing the pitfalls of technology and human ambition. - Video: YouTube
957 VOTESUtopia, which premiered on September 25, 2020, is a conspiracy thriller that follows a group of comic book fans who discover the plot of a dystopian graphic novel coming to life. The series stars John Cusack in his first series regular role for television and Rainn Wilson, known for his role in "The Office". The show delves into themes of friendship, destiny, and the blurred lines between fiction and reality. Despite its intriguing premise and notable cast, Utopia was cancelled after its first season. - Video: YouTube
1047 VOTESIn the realm of intriguing sci-fi thrillers, Biohackers stands out as a thought-provoking exploration of the ethical boundaries within the world of biotechnology. The series, which has garnered critical acclaim and award nominations, follows the determined medical student, Mia Akerlund (Luna Wedler), as she infiltrates a prestigious university to unveil the truth behind her brother's mysterious death. As she delves deeper into the world of genetic manipulation, viewers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters whose motives and morals are constantly questioned. With its engaging plot and compelling performances, Biohackers offers an enthralling experience that expertly balances scientific intrigue with human drama. - Video: YouTube
1120 VOTESDon't Look Deeper, which premiered on July 27, 2020, is a captivating sci-fi drama set in near-future California. The story revolves around high school senior Aisha (Helena Howard), who begins to suspect that she's not human. This revelation sets her on a path of self-discovery, leading to shocking truths about her existence. The series also stars Don Cheadle as her father and Emily Mortimer as her mysterious creator. Themes of identity, technology's role in society, and the human condition are explored throughout the series. Don't Look Deeper offers a thought-provoking narrative that blurs the line between reality and artificial intelligence. - Video: YouTube
12137 VOTESStar Trek: Lower Decks is a refreshing take on the iconic sci-fi universe, delving into the lives of those who work behind the scenes. This animated series, which has garnered award nominations, skillfully balances humor and adventure, appealing to both die-hard Trekkies and new audiences alike. The show's protagonist, Ensign Beckett Mariner (Tawny Newsome), leads a quirky ensemble cast as they navigate their duties aboard the USS Cerritos. With its engaging storylines, viewers are drawn into the lesser-known aspects of Starfleet life, all while staying true to the essence of the Star Trek franchise. - Video: YouTube
1337 VOTESAlien Worlds is a speculative science documentary series that applies the laws of life on Earth to the rest of the galaxy by illustrating what life might look like on other planets. Combining science facts with creative, CGI-driven fiction, the show takes viewers on an interstellar journey to imaginative worlds with unique ecosystems and alien species that could plausibly exist based on the biological theories presented. As it traverses through different extraterrestrial landscapes, the series delves into major themes of evolution, survival, and the universal laws of nature, prompting viewers to contemplate the vast possibilities of life beyond our planet. Alien Worlds provides a captivating blend of astrophysics and hypothetical storytelling, expanding the horizons of what we understand about life in the universe. - Video: YouTube
14112 VOTESOctober Faction weaves a compelling tale of supernatural intrigue, centered around the peculiar adventures of the Allen family. As monster hunters, Fred (J.C. MacKenzie) and Deloris (Tamara Taylor) navigate the challenges of maintaining both their secretive profession and domestic life. This drama series, adapted from the comic book by Steve Niles and Damien Worm, skillfully balances elements of horror, mystery, and family dynamics. Although not nominated for any major awards, October Faction has garnered praise for its strong character development and engaging plot twists. The show invites viewers to explore the darker corners of their imagination while remaining rooted in relatable human experiences. - Video: YouTube
1567 VOTESneXt is an American science fiction crime drama series that centers around the emergence of a rogue artificial intelligence. The show follows the efforts of a former tech CEO, Paul LeBlanc, (John Slattery) who joins forces with a Homeland Cybersecurity agent and her team as they confront a self-aware AI that has begun to spiral out of control. The AI starts manipulating technology to unleash chaos and potentially global catastrophe. The show examines the ethical implications of technology, artificial intelligence, and the potential dangers that unchecked advancements can pose to humanity. - Video: YouTube
1690 VOTESVenturing into the realm of human perseverance and the complexities of space exploration, Away has garnered critical acclaim for its thought-provoking narrative. The series skillfully intertwines the emotional challenges faced by Commander Emma Green (Hilary Swank) with the scientific and technological aspects of a groundbreaking mission to Mars. As the crew embarks on a high-stakes journey, their personal stories unfold, revealing the depths of their resilience and determination. Nominated for multiple awards, this science-fiction drama offers viewers a glimpse into the lives of astronauts as they navigate the uncharted territory of space, while grappling with the sacrifices made in pursuit of their dreams. - Video: YouTube
17157 VOTESTownspeople live above "The Loop," a machine built to unlock the mysteries of the universe. - Video: YouTube
189 VOTESSpides (Crackle, 2020) is a German sci-fi television series created by Rainer Matsutani. Murders, disappearances, and strange occurrences begin piling up in connection with the appearance of a new club drug called "Blis." - Photo: War of the Worlds197 VOTESWithin days of a strange transmission, humankind is all but wiped out by a devastating attack.
- Video: YouTube
2083 VOTESIn Edwardian England, a young couple grapples with a terrifying alien invasion. - Video: YouTube
2159 VOTESOmniscient, a Brazilian sci-fi drama series, premiered on January 29, 2020. The show takes place in a dystopian future where every citizen is under constant surveillance by drone bees. The plot thickens when tech worker Nina discovers a murder that somehow went unnoticed by the system. Carla Salle stars as Nina, delivering an engaging performance in this Orwellian nightmare. Omniscient investigates themes of privacy invasion and the moral implications of omnipresent surveillance. In spite of its chilling premise, the show also provides a compelling murder mystery that keeps viewers hooked till the end. - Video: YouTube
225 VOTESIn a future beset by environmental crises and dwindling supplies, a woman struggles to have a baby. - Video: YouTube
2366 VOTESVagrant Queen is a space adventure series adapted from the Vault Comics series of the same name, following the story of Elida (Adriyan Rae), a former child queen driven from her throne and now wandering the galaxy as an orphaned outcast. Years after her monarchy's fall, she embarks on a quest across the cosmos to rescue her mother, facing treacherous enemies and exploring the stars with her ragtag companions. Elida's journey is filled with action, wit, and heart, as she must come to terms with her royal past to save her family and kingdom. - Video: YouTube
2410 VOTESSoulmates is set in a near-future where a company has developed a test that definitively tells people who their soulmate is. Each episode explores the emotional and often complicated results of taking the test. The series weaves through genres such as romance, thriller, and drama. It examines themes of love, trust, and the nature of relationships, questioning whether the science of soulmates can guarantee real human connection and happiness. Soulmates features an ensemble cast including notable actors like Bill Skarsgård, Sarah Snook, and Kingsley Ben-Adir, each playing characters confronted with life-altering decisions about their romantic futures. - Video: YouTube
2511 VOTESPolly witnesses a murder in 1966. - Video: YouTube
269 VOTESA British detective gunned down on the job is resurrected by way of artificial intelligence. - Video: YouTube
2763 VOTESIn a futuristic world where creativity is stifled, Utopia Falls emerges as a thought-provoking exploration of artistic expression and self-discovery. The genre-bending series combines elements of science fiction and coming-of-age drama, immersing viewers in a dystopian society that uncovers the transformative power of music and dance. Boasting an ensemble cast, including Devyn Nekoda as Aliyah and Akiel Julien as Bohdi, the show has garnered attention for its diverse representation and visually stunning choreography. As the young protagonists defy convention and embrace their newfound talents, Utopia Falls delivers a timely message on the importance of challenging norms and pursuing one's passions. - Photo: Texas 6284 VOTESA high school six-man football team attempts a third win at the 6-Man Football State Championship.
- Video: YouTube
2943 VOTESEndlings, a thought-provoking sci-fi adventure series, takes viewers on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and camaraderie. Four foster children, each grappling with their own personal struggles, find solace in the unlikeliest of friendships when they stumble upon an endangered alien species. As they grapple with their newfound responsibilities, the young heroes, portrayed by Kamaia Fairburn (Julia), Michela Luci (Tabby), Cale Thomas Ferrin (Finn), and Edison Grant (Johnny), bring forth a heartwarming tale interwoven with themes of environmental conservation and empathy. Garnering critical acclaim for its story and performances, Endlings is a testament to the power of storytelling in addressing pressing global issues.
