Twisted Metal is an innovative television adaptation of the beloved video game series of the same name. This show uniquely blends larger-than-life characters with outrageous scenarios, resembling the rare synergy found in only a few cinematic ventures. Samoa Joe, portraying the clown-masked villain Sweet Tooth, undeniably captures the audience’s attention, while Anthony Mackie brings depth to his role as John Doe, an amnesiac milkman tasked with a perilous journey across the United States to deliver a mysterious package.
While Twisted Metal does not adhere strictly to the original game’s plot, this creative choice proves beneficial, allowing for the development of more nuanced characters. Many iconic figures from the video game appear in the show, which features gruesome yet entertaining destruction-derby-style competitions, central to its narrative. As fans await Season 2 of Twisted Metal, here’s a curated list of movies and series that share similar themes and tones.
10 Alita: Battle Angel
The Central Sport in Alita: Battle Angel Shares Energy with Twisted Metal
Alita: Battle Angel and Twisted Metal inhabit distinct post-apocalyptic realms. The former plunges viewers into a cyberpunk universe, portraying a cyborg protagonist with human consciousness, while Twisted Metal emphasizes a more desolate wasteland.
Despite their differing environments, both narratives present brutal games as pivotal themes. Alita’s Motorball introduces life-or-death stakes reminiscent of Twisted Metal’s high-octane chaos, as both involve enhanced vehicles armed with lethal upgrades. Viewers seeking an exhilarating shift in scenery will find this film captivating.
9 The Boys
Both Shows Embrace a Shared Dark Humor
Twisted Metal seamlessly mixes gory scenes with humor, often in tandem. Similarly, the comic book adaptation The Boys exemplifies a dark comedic tone where gruesome fatalities reach such absurdity that they tip into hilarity. Both series probe the consequences of unrestrained power, leading to chaotic results.
8 Death Race
Jason Statham Stars as the Masked Hero in This Action-Packed Film
While Twisted Metal takes liberties with its source material, the film Death Race closely parallels the essence of the video game. Set in a dystopian future, the story revolves around a brutal televised competition where prisoners race for their lives in heavily modified vehicles.
In this narrative, Jason Statham steps into the shoes of a replacement driver who soon uncovers sinister secrets underlining the show. For those craving a more authentic representation of Twisted Metal’s themes, Death Race stands out as a compelling option.
7 Halo
Both Series Are Videogame Adaptations Set in Post-Apocalyptic Battle Zones
Upon initial inspection, Halo and Twisted Metal appear to differ significantly, yet they share compelling similarities. Both shows are adaptations of popular video games, diverging into various genres. While Halo dives into a first-person shooter narrative rich with vehicular warfare, both series leverage iconic weapons and narratives centered around overcoming extraordinary challenges.
6 Blood Drive
An Eccentric Premise Accompanied by High-Octane Chases
Blood Drive was an ambitious endeavor that ended too soon, aired on SyFy and, like Twisted Metal, offers a wildly inventive concept intertwined with intense chases. Featuring Alan Ritchson in his first lead role, the series is likened to a grindhouse flick tailored for fans of Mad Max.
The show revolves around an underground death race where cars run on human blood, pushing the boundaries of gore even further than Twisted Metal, making it a thrilling watch.
5 Fallout
Endearing Characters Navigate a Hostile Wasteland
Videogame adaptations often face scrutiny, yet both Twisted Metal and Fallout have found success, earning impressive audience ratings (92% for Fallout and 93% for Twisted Metal on Rotten Tomatoes). Fallout centers on Lucy, who bravely emerges from her sheltered life to traverse a dangerous post-apocalyptic landscape.
Fans who appreciated Twisted Metal’s character-driven narrative and vibrant atmosphere should definitely catch Fallout next.
4 Blindspot
Exploring the Journey of Amnesia Through Character-Driven Narratives
Both Blindspot and Twisted Metal feature protagonists navigating life without memory, both known as Doe. While Twisted Metal’s John Doe grapples with an identity crisis amidst chaotic vehicles, Blindspot’s Jane Doe, who emerges from a duffel bag with tattoos that become clues about her identity, offers a slightly more subdued mystery. Those intrigued by the central enigma in Twisted Metal rather than the action-packed chases should delve into Blindspot.
3 The Fast & Furious Franchise
A Shared Fast-Paced, Frantic Energy
The Fast & Furious franchise originally focused on undercover cops and street racing but has since evolved into an expansive universe featuring absurd vehicle modifications. It’s easy to draw parallels between this franchise and Twisted Metal, as both encapsulate high-speed chases and seeming chaos. One could speculate that Twisted Metal is what the Fast and Furious world might evolve into centuries down the line.
2 Doomsday
Crossing Factions in a Post-Apocalyptic Scotland
Doomsday’s premise reflects the wild imagination akin to Twisted Metal, making it a perfect watch for those who revel in campy action and fun sequences. The film showcases a faction conflict between cannibalistic punks and medieval knights amid a quarantined Scotland ravaged by a brutal virus. Featuring Rhona Mitra as Major Eden Sinclair, her mission to locate a cure propels the film into gripping territory.
1 Mad Max: Fury Road
An Unforgettable Experience of Nonstop Car Chases
Both Mad Max: Fury Road and Twisted Metal present a captivating array of outrageous villains and high-speed automotive pursuits. Fury Road revitalized the iconic franchise, earning critical acclaim with a staggering 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While Twisted Metal offers its dark moments, Fury Road indulges in epic storytelling while incorporating humor. Both narratives focus on vehicle combat amidst a post-apocalyptic wasteland, warranting recognition as must-watch experiences.