It’s been the breakthrough series of the year. Some even believe it’s better than The Boys itself, the series from which it has emerged as a spin-off. If we look at the ratings, this is the case.
Gen V is the new Prime Video series set in the brutal world of The Boys. Just like its parent series, Gen V draws inspiration from the comics by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, specifically the storyline ‘We Gotta Go Now.’
The plot revolves around a group of young superheroes or ‘supes’ who are forced to fight in real battles at the Godolkin College of Crimefighting, run by Vought International.
If you’re looking for more superheroes in a similar vein but unrelated to The Boys, here are five series you should watch to satisfy that craving. These series are fascinating, intelligent, visually striking, and just as memorable as Gen V.
Best series to watch now, similar to Gen V style
Doom Patrol
Based on Grant Morrison’s work on the superhero team of the same name, Doom Patrol is one of the most surprising superhero series currently airing on HBO Max. Here we are talking about the DC Universe.
The series follows the adventures of the Doom Patrol, a team of superheroes who gained their powers under tragic circumstances. Rejected by society, they investigate the inexplicable phenomena of the world until their leader, the Chief, mysteriously disappears, sending them into action.
Both Gen V and Doom Patrol focus on superhero groups, exploring their broken psyche and the damage inflicted on them by their superhuman abilities. They use dark humor to address potentially unsettling and disturbing themes without forgetting the inherent exaggerated aspect of their genre.
Peacemaker
John Cena reprises his role as Peacemaker in the 2022 series of the same name by James Gunn. A sequel to the 2021 film Suicide Squad, Peacemaker follows the character as he is forced to join the mysterious “Project Butterfly,” an A.R.G.U.S. covert operations squad with a mission to save the world from an alien invasion.
Peacemaker, or The Pacifier, is a perfect companion to Gen V. Both series follow the same pattern of chaos and unhinged humor, featuring violent action sequences, foul language, and charming performances.
Peacemaker benefits from the distinctive style of DC’s new head, James Gunn, blending dark and shocking humor with genuine heart and seriousness. The result is a unique superhero series that defies expectations, turning a D-list character into a standout star.
The Umbrella Academy
“The Umbrella Academy” is one of the best and most consistent series on Netflix. A cast of actors stars in the story of a dysfunctional group of adopted superhero siblings who reunite after their father’s death to prevent an imminent apocalypse.
The series incorporates multiple science fiction tropes, such as time travel and alternate timelines.
Like many other superhero series, “The Umbrella Academy” often bites off more than it can chew. However, it remains daring, original, and impressive, with stellar performances, high production values, and an increasingly compelling plot.
It might lack the overt violence of Gen V, but both series focus on the bonds created among superhero teams. “The Umbrella Academy” has more heart, but its biting wit is equally impressive.
Watchmen
Oscar winner Regina King stars in “Watchmen,” a quasi-sequel to Alan Moore’s 1986 graphic novel and one of HBO’s best superhero shows.
Set in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the series follows several characters as they confront a radicalized group of white supremacists, the Seventh Kavalry, and uncover a conspiracy related to Doctor Manhattan and the original hero, Hooded Justice.
Smart and filled with social commentary on racial relationships, “Watchmen” is a worthy continuation of Moore’s groundbreaking story. King confidently directs an impressive cast, including Oscar winner Jeremy Irons and Emmy winner Jean Smart.
Although much less violent than “The Boys” and “Gen V,” “Watchmen” offers a thoughtful and nuanced view of superheroes that will satisfy fans of the beloved Prime Video franchise.
