Top 10 Simulated Reality Movies and Shows
#10: “eXistenZ” (1999)
Set in a future where biotechnology has become commonplace, “eXistenZ” follows the story of VR game designer Allegra Geller and her publicist diving into her newest game. But as the two go deeper into the game, they find themselves encountering threats from all sides. Both rival game companies and radical elements are willing to do anything to stop VR from spreading. Eventually, the true nature of Allegra’s existence comes into question too. If tangled rabbit holes of betrayal and reality-bending twists are your thing, then give “eXistenZ” a look. Make sure you can stomach the gooey effects though!
#9: “Upload” (2020-)
The concepts of death and simulated realities often walk hand in hand, but rarely to this degree. In this TV series, humanity has managed to create a digital afterlife where people’s consciousnesses are transferred over to a virtual world when their bodies cease to function. Nathan Brown finds himself having trouble adjusting after he’s put into an expensive post-life simulation by his girlfriend. His interactions with new people, both living and deceased, provide the bulk of the show’s action. But the mystery surrounding his demise is also slowly revealed. Through some great visuals and memorable characters, “Upload” features a fascinating look into what such an artificial afterlife could look like.
#8: “Open Your Eyes” (1997)
You may be more familiar with the American remake, “Vanilla Sky,” but we’d like to give credit to the original article here. Also known as “Abre Los Ojos,” (AH-bray loce OH-hoce) “Open Your Eyes” follows César as he experiences some confusing encounters after having his face disfigured in an accident. First, his injuries disappear, and then he takes the life of his lover who appears to become his ex-girlfriend. César eventually realizes he had himself cryogenically preserved after his accident. All of these realistic VR dreams are part of the process. Thrilling and featuring plenty of big questions, “Open Your Eyes” is a real “eye-opener” of a film.
#7: “Dark City” (1998)
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John Murdoch awakens in a mysterious city with no memories of who he is and being pursued for a violent crime. To make matters more confusing, the city is perpetually shrouded in darkness. The residents also appear to be manipulated by mysterious beings known as “the Strangers.” As the movie continues, Murdoch gradually unravels the identity of the Strangers and the abilities he possesses that seem similar to theirs. “Dark City'' is memorable for laying an intriguing plot onto a haunting and unique atmosphere. And while it does bear several similarities to a film we’ll be discussing later, this movie is definitely worth “tuning” into.
#6: “Westworld” (2016-)
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This sci-fi TV show begins its story with a western-themed park. At Westworld, artificial/robotic hosts are used for the entertainment of wealthy guests. After some of the hosts begin to develop consciousness, the world is gripped with violence, revolution, and many revelations. Even some of the human guests and employees start to question what’s real. “Westworld” is a stunning examination of free will and what it means to be human. The dystopian show also features some truly impressive visuals, a fascinating future world, and some outstanding performances. “Westworld” is a violent delight you won’t want to end.
#5: “Source Code” (2011)
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Army pilot Colter Stevens finds himself repeating the same 8 minutes before a bomb goes off on a train. After learning that he has been placed inside a simulation of a bombing that has already occurred, Colter must find the bomber before they can strike again. But the simulation seems to be a bit too real. And Stevens’ connection with one of the victims brings up questions of whether the “source code” might be more than virtual reality. Suspenseful throughout and tackling some interesting ideas, “Source Code” blends several familiar sci-fi concepts to create something unique.
#4: “WandaVision” (2021)
When the “WandaVision” series debuted, it had everyone buzzing. In the show, Avengers Wanda Maximoff and Vision suddenly find themselves living in a sitcom-like world that’s based around them. But underneath the happy façade lurks a darkness that gradually seeps through. Who created this television-inspired world? Why did they do this? It’s so fascinating to discover the answers to those questions along with the characters that we won’t spoil it here. The miniseries combines different genres, has a reality-bending premise, gives us stellar performances, and has awesome visuals. It’s no wonder why “WandaVision” had everyone glued to their screens each week.
#3: “Inception” (2010)
Are you dreaming or are you awake? This movie had everyone asking this and plenty of other questions. “Inception” follows thieves who usually steal information from people’s minds in their dreams. However, this time around, they’re tasked with trying to plant an idea of their own. Along with some new teammates, their mission through dreams within dreams within dreams is an absolute trip for the audience. Our heads are still spinning from trying to keep track of everything. The movie blends weighty ideas with a clever, heist-style set-up. “Inception” has left a big impact on film and on anyone who’s seen it. We’ll certainly never forget the soundtrack!
#2: “The Truman Show” (1998)
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Truman Burbank lived a perfectly normal and average life...that just happened to play out on a popular long-running TV show. As it turns out, his entire existence has been a carefully controlled story overseen by others. His town, family, and his love interests have all been carefully chosen for him. However, Truman’s gradual realization that something is wrong with his world leads him to try to leave it. The comedy-drama is supported by an earnest and awe-inspiring lead performance from Jim Carrey. Released in 1998, “The Truman Show” also serves as an interesting look into the nature of celebrity and reality television that proved surprisingly ahead of its time.
#1: “The Matrix” (1999)
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Neo may be surprised, but we’d be shocked if any of you are – of course, “The Matrix” is the best! No other movie has succeeded as well at firing our collective imaginations about simulated reality. Neo’s discovery that his world is a digital simulation created by intelligent machines to control humanity blew his mind and those of audiences. Similarly, the groundbreaking effects and crazy action sequences also left our jaws on the floor. “The Matrix” takes heady philosophical concepts and packages them in a way that’s enormously entertaining and makes you think. What more could you ask for?
