16 TV Series that Are Better than The Movies
TV series have evolved to become more cinematic, with intricate storytelling, complex characters, and high-quality production values that rival even the best films. In fact, some TV shows have taken stories from the big screen and expanded them in ways that movies couldn’t, delivering deeper plots and more immersive experiences. Here are 16 TV series that many consider better than the movies.
1. The Mandalorian (Disney+)
While the Star Wars movies are legendary, The Mandalorian brought a fresh, character-driven take to the franchise. The series has been praised for its episodic adventures, breathtaking visuals, and beloved characters like Baby Yoda (Grogu), proving that a smaller, more intimate story can captivate fans just as much—if not more—than the epic space battles of the films.
2. Fargo (FX*)
Inspired by the 1996 Coen Brothers film, Fargo takes the quirky, dark crime world of the original movie and expands it into an anthology series. Each season features a new set of characters and storylines, combining mystery, humor, and brutality in a way that gives more depth and creativity than a single film could offer.
3. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (The WB/UPN*)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer started as a 1992 cult movie, but it was the TV series that made Buffy a pop culture icon. Joss Whedon’s long-running show added depth, emotional complexity, and character development to the supernatural storyline, turning it into a beloved teen drama with real heart.
4. MAS*H (CBS*)
The original MASH* movie (1970) was a satirical take on the horrors of war, but the TV series became a cultural phenomenon. The show ran for 11 seasons, allowing for rich character development and blending humor with poignant drama in a way that outshone the film’s shorter, more chaotic take.
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5. Westworld (HBO*)
The 1973 Westworld film introduced the concept of a futuristic theme park where robots rebel, but it’s the TV series that took this idea to the next level. With deep philosophical questions about AI, free will, and morality, the show goes far beyond the original movie’s premise, making it a gripping and complex sci-fi drama.
6. Friday Night Lights (NBC*)
While the 2004 film Friday Night Lights captured the spirit of high school football in Texas, the TV series took the same setting and explored it in greater depth. With rich character arcs and deeply emotional storytelling, the show became a heartfelt portrayal of small-town life, leadership, and family.
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7. Bates Motel (A&E*)
Inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, Bates Motel serves as a prequel to the famous horror film. It gives a backstory to Norman Bates’ descent into madness and his complicated relationship with his mother. By focusing on Norman’s formative years, the show offers psychological depth and a slow-burn tension the movie couldn’t fully explore.
8. What We Do in the Shadows (FX*)
Based on the 2014 mockumentary film, the What We Do in the Shadows TV series expanded on the hilarious premise of vampires living in modern-day society. The series explores new characters and situations, making it just as funny, if not funnier, than the original movie thanks to its ensemble cast and absurdly clever writing.
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9. The Exorcist (FOX*)
The 1973 movie The Exorcist is a horror classic, but the TV adaptation took the same concept of demonic possession and expanded it into a multi-layered story of faith, family, and horror. The series builds tension over time and delivers scares that resonate deeper than the quick shocks of the film.
10. 12 Monkeys (Syfy*)
Based on the 1995 film, 12 Monkeys takes the movie’s time-travel concept and transforms it into a rich, detailed narrative over four seasons. The TV series dives deeper into the mechanics of time travel and builds complex relationships, creating a sci-fi epic with emotional stakes that surpass the original movie.
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11. Parenthood (NBC*)
While the 1989 movie Parenthood was a lighthearted look at family life, the TV series took the same concept and turned it into a deeply emotional, multi-generational story. With a talented ensemble cast, the series explored the struggles and triumphs of raising a family with far more nuance and heart.
12. Stargate SG-1 (Syfy*)
While the 1994 film Stargate was a fun, action-packed sci-fi adventure, Stargate SG-1 took that world and built it into a long-running, beloved TV franchise. With compelling story arcs, character development, and a wider exploration of alien worlds, the show became a cornerstone of 90s and early 2000s sci-fi television.
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13. Hannibal (NBC*)
Though The Silence of the Lambs and its follow-up films are iconic, the Hannibal TV series offers a fresh, visually stunning, and psychological take on the relationship between Hannibal Lecter and FBI investigator Will Graham. The series delves deep into their complex dynamics, offering a slow, poetic build-up that outshines the movies.
14. The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance (Netflix*)
The original Dark Crystal (1982) movie was a cult favorite, but its prequel series, Age of Resistance, expanded the world of Thra with breathtaking visuals and compelling storytelling. With richer character arcs and deeper exploration of the lore, the series surpassed the original in scope and emotional impact.
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15. Cobra Kai (Netflix*)
The Karate Kid films were beloved in the 80s, but Cobra Kai took the story further by revisiting the characters decades later. With its blend of nostalgia and fresh perspectives, the series dives into the grey areas of rivalry, redemption, and personal growth, making it arguably more impactful than the original films.
16. Ash vs Evil Dead (Starz*)
The Evil Dead films are cult horror classics, but Ash vs Evil Dead brought Ash back to life in a series that mixes horror, comedy, and nostalgia with plenty of blood and gore. The show’s episodic format allowed for more outrageous adventures and character development, keeping fans entertained far beyond what the movies offered.
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