Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer
Menu
Menu
Movies

18 Best Virtual Reality Movies: Exploring Boundless Realms of Imagination

June 28, 2023
Virtual Reality Movies

Movies about virtual realities have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of imagination and technological possibilities. These films offer a fascinating exploration of the concept of virtual worlds, where individuals can immerse themselves in digital realms and experience unimaginable adventures. To help you delve into the captivating realm of virtual realities, we have curated a list of 18 Movies about virtual reality that are a must-watch.

Virtual Reality Movies often tackle thought-provoking themes such as identity, morality, and the consequences of unchecked technological progress, resonating with contemporary audiences’ concerns about our increasingly digital world. The following films offer thrilling narratives that push the boundaries of human perception. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping action or profound philosophical ponderings, these movies will take you on an unforgettable journey through the limitless possibilities of virtual realities. So grab your popcorn and prepare to be transported to worlds beyond imagination.

List of Virtual Reality Movies

  1. The Matrix
  2. Dark City
  3. Ready Player One
  4. Videodrome
  5. The Thirteenth Floor
  6. Tron
  7. Existenz
  8. Total Recall
  9. The Cell
  10. Ender’s Game
  11. Hackers
  12. Don’t Worry Darling
  13. Disclosure
  14. Virtuosity
  15. Gamer
  16. The Lawnmower Man
  17. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
  18. Spy Kids 3-D

1. The Matrix (1999)

The Matrix is a sci-fi film set in a dystopian future where humanity is unknowingly trapped in a simulated reality created by sentient machines. The story follows Neo, a computer hacker who discovers the truth about the Matrix and joins a group of rebels to fight against the machines.

The film explores themes of reality, identity, and the nature of existence. It is a groundbreaking movie with stunning visual effects, a gripping storyline, and thought-provoking concepts. “The Matrix” appeals to viewers with its philosophical undertones, intense action sequences, and its ability to challenge perceptions of reality.

2. Dark City (1998)

Dark City is a neo-noir science fiction film that revolves around a man named John Murdoch, who wakes up with no memories and finds himself accused of a series of brutal murders. As he unravels the mystery of his identity, he discovers that the city he inhabits is an artificial construct manipulated by a group of mysterious beings known as the Strangers.

The film delves into themes of memory, perception, and free will. It captivates viewers with its atmospheric visuals, intricate storytelling, and a compelling blend of noir and sci-fi elements, making it a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking cinema.

3. Ready Player One (2018)

Ready Player One takes place in a dystopian future where people escape the harsh realities of life by immersing themselves in a virtual reality world called the Oasis. When the creator of the Oasis dies, he leaves behind a hidden Easter Egg and the person who finds it will inherit his fortune and control over the Oasis.

The story follows Wade Watts as he embarks on a thrilling treasure hunt within the Oasis. The movie combines nostalgia for pop culture references with exhilarating action sequences, making it an entertaining watch for both gamers and general audiences.

Also Read: Movies like Ready Player One

4. Videodrome (1983)

Videodrome is a surrealistic sci-fi horror film that explores the dark side of media and technology. The story follows Max Renn, the CEO of a small television station, as he becomes obsessed with a mysterious and sadistic television program called Videodrome. As Max delves deeper into the world of Videodrome, he experiences disturbing hallucinations and blurs the line between reality and fiction.

The film is known for its provocative themes, unsettling visuals, and chilling performance by James Woods. Videodrome is a cult classic that appeals to viewers who appreciate unconventional storytelling and psychological horror.

5. The Thirteenth Floor (1999)

The Thirteenth Floor is a sci-fi mystery film that follows a computer scientist, Hannon Fuller, who creates a virtual reality simulation of 1937 Los Angeles. However, when Fuller is murdered, his protégé discovers a hidden message suggesting that they are also living in a simulated reality. The film intertwines the narratives of the virtual world and the real world as the characters seek to uncover the truth.

 Through its engaging plot twists, philosophical implications, and atmospheric noir aesthetics, The Thirteenth Floor offers a captivating experience for fans of mind-bending science fiction.

6. Tron (1982)

Tron is a pioneering science fiction film that takes place inside a computer world. The story follows a programmer named Kevin Flynn, who is digitized and transported into a virtual reality known as the Grid. There, he becomes involved in a struggle against the malevolent Master Control Program.

Tron  is renowned for its groundbreaking visual effects and imaginative depiction of a digital realm. The movie’s unique concept, combined with its action-packed sequences and memorable score, makes it a favourite among viewers who appreciate innovative storytelling and early computer-generated imagery.

7. Existenz (1999)

Existenz is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller directed by David Cronenberg. The film is set in the near future, where virtual reality gaming has become a dominant form of entertainment. The story follows a game designer named Allegra Geller, who is on the run from assassins.

Together with a security guard, she enters the virtual reality game “eXistenZ,” blurring the lines between the game and reality. “Existenz” delves into themes of identity, reality, and the nature of existence, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience for viewers who appreciate cerebral and unconventional narratives.

8. Total Recall (2012)

Total Recall is a sci-fi action film set in a future where a company called Rekall offers the ability to implant artificial memories. The story centres around Douglas Quaid, who visits Rekall but soon discovers that his entire life may be a lie.

As he navigates a world of intrigue and espionage, Quaid must uncover his true identity and prevent a catastrophic event. The movie provides a thrilling blend of action, mystery, and visual effects, offering viewers an exciting and adrenaline-pumping experience.

Also Read: Movies Like Alita Battle Angel

9. The Cell (2000)

The Cell is a psychological horror film that follows Catherine Deane, a psychologist who enters the minds of comatose patients using advanced technology. When an FBI agent enlists her help to enter the mind of a serial killer, Catherine finds herself in a nightmarish world of the killer’s creation.

The film combines stunning visual imagery with a gripping storyline and explores themes of the human psyche and the line between reality and fantasy. “The Cell” captivates viewers with its haunting visuals, intense performances, and dark, psychological narrative.

10. Ender’s Game (2013)

Ender’s Game is a sci-fi film adapted from Orson Scott Card’s novel of the same name. Set in a future where Earth is preparing for an alien invasion, the story follows Ender Wiggin, a young prodigy who is recruited to join a military academy in space. Ender’s tactical skills and leadership abilities are put to the test as he trains for an impending battle against the alien species known as the Formics. 

The film explores themes of morality, leadership, and the consequences of war. “Ender’s Game” offers a thrilling and emotionally resonant experience for viewers, combining action, drama, and thought-provoking storytelling.

11. Hackers (1995)

Hackers is a cyberpunk thriller that follows a group of young computer hackers who uncover a conspiracy involving a powerful corporation. The story focuses on Dade Murphy, a talented hacker known as Zero Cool, as he becomes entangled in a plot to unleash a devastating computer virus.

The film captures the spirit of the mid-90s cyberculture and features stylish visuals, fast-paced action, and youthful energy. “Hackers” appeals to viewers with its high-tech intrigue, charismatic characters, and its portrayal of hacking as a form of rebellion against oppressive systems.

12. Don’t Worry Darling (2022)

Don’t Worry Darling is a psychological thriller set in the 1950s. The story revolves around a housewife named Alice, who begins to suspect that something sinister is happening in her seemingly perfect suburban community. As she investigates further, Alice unravels a web of dark secrets and deception.

Directed by Olivia Wilde, the film offers a suspenseful narrative, strong performances, and a visually stunning depiction of the era. “Don’t Worry Darling” captivates viewers with its atmospheric tension, compelling storytelling, and exploration of gender dynamics and societal expectations.

13. Disclosure (1994)

Disclosure is a thriller based on Michael Crichton’s novel of the same name. The story follows Tom Sanders, an executive who is wrongfully accused of sexual harassment by his new female boss. As he fights to clear his name, Tom uncovers a web of corporate intrigue and manipulation.

The film explores themes of gender, power dynamics, and workplace politics. With its gripping plot, strong performances from Michael Douglas and Demi Moore, and thought-provoking commentary on sexual politics, “Disclosure” engages viewers with its intense drama and timely subject matter.

14. Virtuosity (1995)

Virtuosity is an action sci-fi film set in a future where virtual reality has advanced to create realistic simulations. The story centres around a virtual serial killer named SID 6.7, who escapes into the real world. A former cop named Parker Barnes is enlisted to track down SID 6.7, leading to a high-stakes battle of wits and skills.

The movie combines explosive action sequences, futuristic visuals, and an intriguing cat-and-mouse storyline. Virtuosity offers a thrilling experience for viewers, particularly those who enjoy fast-paced action and the exploration of the boundaries between reality and virtuality.

15. Gamer (2009)

Gamer is a sci-fi action film set in the near future where gaming and reality have become indistinguishable. The story follows Kable, a death row inmate controlled by a teenager named Simon in a real-life video game called Slayers. As Kable fights for his freedom, he uncovers a conspiracy that goes beyond the game itself.

The film explores themes of technology, control, and the blurred lines between virtual and real-world identities. With its adrenaline-fueled action, dystopian setting, and social commentary, “Gamer” provides an entertaining and thought-provoking experience for viewers who enjoy high-octane sci-fi thrillers.

16. The Lawnmower Man (1992)

The Lawnmower Man is a sci-fi horror film that tells the story of Jobe Smith, a simple-minded gardener who becomes the subject of a virtual reality experiment. As Jobe’s intelligence and powers grow exponentially, he develops dangerous megalomaniacal tendencies.

The film explores themes of technology, intelligence enhancement, and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation. “The Lawnmower Man” offers a blend of thrilling sci-fi elements and psychological horror, captivating viewers with its visually striking virtual reality sequences and its cautionary tale of unchecked technological advancement.

17. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is a fantasy adventure film and a sequel to the 1995 film Jumanji. The story follows four high school students who are transported into the world of Jumanji through a video game console. Trapped in the bodies of their avatars, they must complete a quest to escape and return to the real world.

The movie combines action, humour, and heartwarming moments, making it an entertaining watch for audiences of all ages. With its exciting jungle setting, engaging characters, and clever video game-inspired storyline, “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” offers a fun-filled cinematic experience.

18. Spy Kids 3-D (2003)

Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over is a family adventure film and the third instalment in the Spy Kids franchise. The story follows Juni Cortez, a former spy who is recruited to enter a virtual reality video game to rescue his sister, Carmen. Inside the game, Juni must face a series of challenges and defeat the evil Toymaker to save his sister and the real world.

The movie combines action, comedy, and 3D visuals, providing an enjoyable experience for younger viewers. “Spy Kids 3-D” offers a mix of imaginative virtual reality sequences, exciting escapades, and a positive message about family bonds and teamwork.

Honourable Mentions

Here are a few virtual reality movies that didn’t make this list, but you can check them out nonetheless: 

  1. Upgrade 
  2. Inception
  3. A Free Guy
Share Post

When Lost aired over a decade ago, its successful narrative created a pop culture impact and changed the landscape of television. If you are a fan and want to watch shows like Lost then you can have a look at this list we made just for you.

Lost

The hugely successful television series Lost aired in 2004. The premise, as we know, deals with a group of people surviving a commercial passenger plane crash on a remote island. The show masterfully explores supernatural and sci-fi elements on this mysterious south Pacific island. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTu8iDynwNc

The use of cliffhangers at the end of each episode of Lost kept the viewers on the edge of their seats, desperately craving for the next episode to come. Even though it's a large ensemble cast, most of the characters receive a justifiable personal arch. Lost was inspired by the movie Castaway and became one of the most expensive pilots to be shot at the time! Lost continues to be appreciated for its originality in storytelling and dynamic character arcs. 

List of TV Shows Like Lost

  1. The Leftovers
  2. Manifest
  3. Lost Room
  4. Twin Peaks
  5. The Prisoners
  6. Battlestar Galactica
  7. The New People
  8. Flight 29 Down
  9. Fringe
  10. Alcatraz
  11. Under the Dome
  12. Dark

1. The Leftovers (2014)

IMDB ratings: 8.3/10

Cast: Carrie Coon, Justin Theroux, Amy Brenneman and Margaret Qualley

Creator: Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta

The director of Lost, Damon Lindel also created a supernatural drama series called The Leftovers. The show begins 3 years after an unexplainable global event called ‘Sudden Departure’  where almost 2 per cent of the population, nearly 140 million people, disappear. The Leftovers isn't about WHY people are gone, it's about how the ones who remain dealt with their loss, people often try to comfort themselves with dreams, angels, gods, or even death.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLT3YUALJno&t=8s

The Leftovers will leave you with so many questions but beyond words, you have to feel it and savour its unanswered questions to find peace. The Leftovers is an incredible television series that starts incredibly well but loses its way by the series's end. I have to say though, Carrie Coon has brilliant moments in the end. The Leftovers is so weird, fragmented and nonsensical at times that it reminds me of Lost. If you are looking for shows like Lost, I recommend that you give The Leftovers a try.

2. Manifest  (2018) 

IMDB ratings: 7.1/10

Cast: Melissa Roxburgh, Josh Dallas and J.R. Ramirez 

Creator: Jeff Rake


The Manifest is a supernatural drama show about a bunch of people who discover that they lost 5 years of their lives when they landed in New York after their aeroplane faced severe turbulence. All the people on the plane were presumed to be dead. Now, these people have to find a way to adjust themselves to a new life around their loved ones. Mild spoiler! They learn their loved ones and the rest of society is not as they left it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1hNAIzkQWY

I found that the show’s premise was very intriguing and the actors give a very convincing performance. The narrative details of the show, however, in my opinion, are a bit sloppy and inconsistent. The writers surely have room for improvement but their concept is incredibly thrilling. Every episode of Manifest keeps you on your toes. Manifest has completed 3 seasons up until now and continues to be on air. Manifest is a pretty good choice if you want to watch TV shows like Lost.

3. Lost Room (2006)

IMDB ratings: 8.1/10

Cast: Peter Krause, Julianna Margulies and Peter Jacobson

Creator: Christopher Leone, Laura Harkcom

This lesser-known show The Lost Room is an American Sci-fi television miniseries which only had 3 episodes of 90 mins each and no follow-up seasons. The show was based on a very unique idea where the room in question (known as the ‘Lost Room’) and the objects in the said room had supernatural powers. This strange room is set in a 1960s motel along the iconic U.S. Route 66. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfWrECLnFYU

One day the protagonist (Peter Krause) Joe Miller’s daughter disappears inside the room. Joe, with the help of objects present in the room, tries to find his daughter Anna (Elle Fanning). The story of Lost Room was intensely engaging. I found the direction and the actor’s performances to be absolutely brilliant. It baffles me that the creators did not return to make another short season within the same concept. If you have been searching for TV series like Lost then I can assure you that Lost Room will be worth a watch.

4. Twins Peaks (1990) 

IMDB ratings: 8.8/10

Cast: Kyle MacLachlan, Mädchen Amick, Sherilyn Fenn and David Lynch

Creator: David Lynch

David Lynch, the well-known director of weird and captivating films such as Eraserhead and Blue Velvet created an iconic show called Twin Peaks. It is a hauntingly eccentric show about the investigation of the mysterious murder of a small-town homecoming queen named Laura Palmer. Believe me, as odd as the show may seem at first, you will grow to love it, after all, it is considered to be one of the best mystery shows ever created. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zwn9ou_nf-I

With the mysteries, the supernatural elements and the list of bizarre characters, Twin Peaks has it all. In my opinion, the cinematography of the show was truly ahead of its time. Kyle’s Dale Cooper was especially entertaining. Twin Peaks’ experimental formula of the satirical soap opera is extremely unsettling yet rewarding to watch, I must warn you, it’s not for the faint-hearted!  If you are in search of TV shows like Lost then Twin Peaks won’t disappoint you.

The Prisoners (1967)

IMDB ratings: 8.5/10

Cast: Patrick McGoohan, Angelo Muscat and Geroge Markstien

Creator: Patrick McGoohan


The Prisoner centres around an unnamed British agent (Patrick McGoohan) who tries to flee his country after abruptly quitting his high-ranking government job. He is abducted and held captive in a strange ‘sea-side’ village that is isolated from the rest of the world. This village is a highly secure and monitored place filled with weird technology. There are only 17 episodes to this late 60s show but it manages to bring up such surreal surprises, it's sure to leave a great impact on the viewer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JrNr85fPms

The Prisoner’s unique concept influenced many popular shows including Lost. The creators of Lost even cited the show. I was very impressed by how ahead of its time The Prisoners proves to be. If you want to watch more shows similar to Lost the Prisoners should definitely be on your list.

6. Battlestar Galactica (2004)

IMDB ratings: 8.7/10

Cast: Katee Sackhoff, Edward James Olmos and Tricia Helfer 

Creator: Glen A. Larson

The 2004 Battlestar Galactica is a reboot of the original 1978 miniseries of the same name. Do not be mistaken by the title, the show is not related to Star Trek.  Battlestar Galactica is set in the 7th millennium AD and follows Cylons, the robot enemy of humanity that resurfaces to destroy the 12 colonies of Mankind. Only a few survive and are able to escape on ships led by a powerful warship called Battlestar Galactica. Mankind struggles to fight the Cylons and work their own political agendas and disputes while finding their long-lost 13th colony Earth.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnYsf2Yv8i8

The show is a dark, intense and gritty socio-political commentary with EPIC cinematic value. The script is especially clever and as a huge fan of sci-fi shows, this show ticks the boxes in all the right categories. When the show was released, it blew the viewers and critics away. As far as an obsessive and gripping story goes, Battlestar Galactica is one of the most similar to shows like Lost. 

7. The New People (1969)

IMDB ratings: 7.3/10

Cast: David Moses, Zooey hall and Tiffany Boiling

Creator: Larry Gordon Aaron Spelling

The New People is an American Tv series that aired only for 1 season and is focused on a couple of college students who survive a plane crash. The incident takes place while they were returning from a trip to Southeast Asia, their plane crashes on an island in the south of the Pacific ocean. 

By now this show must already be sounding a lot like Lost to you, and it surely is. The remaining group of people discover an unusual truth about the island: there’s an above-ground unused nuclear test site filled with supplies for the survivors. If you want to see more plane survival stories like Lost then The New People should definitely be on your list.

8. Flight 29 Down (2005)

IMDB ratings: 7.2/10

Cast: Allen Alvarado, Halle Hirsh and Corbin Bleu

Creator:  Stan Rowgow D. J. MacHale

The show Flight 29 Down is a drama series about a group of pre-teens/teens who are stranded on a South Pacific island after their plane crashes in a tropical storm while they were flying from an eco-adventure camping trip in Palau. The show is in many ways a younger version of the Adult-centred show Lost but sans the supernatural elements. I’d say that the show draws inspiration from the show The New People.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLeG0w3kL8k

Flight 29 Down uses the technique of a video diary as a plot device for the viewers to keep up with the story of these children. It was very engaging to watch young intelligent characters finding their way on the island. The first two seasons of the show are quite engaging but I seemed to lose interest in its 3rd and final season. Regardless, Flight 29 Down is a really good series to watch if you want to see TV shows like Lost.

9. Fringe (2008)

IMDB ratings: 8.4/10

Cast: Anna Torv, John Noble and Joshua Jackson

Creator: J. J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci

Fringe is a popular Sci-fi crime drama television series. It may seem like a standard procedural drama at first, but the show actually explores the parallel universe, alternate versions of people filled with crazy scientific experiments. I personally had a great time watching this show.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29bSzbqZ3xE

Fringe is actually inspired by shows like Lost, The X-files and The Twilight Zone. The 3 main characters of the show work with a special division called Fringe. There are so many brilliant twists and turns in Fringe that in my opinion, the show is at the top of its category. If you are searching for TV series like Lost, I strongly recommend you watch Fringe. 

10. Alcatraz (2012)

IMDB ratings: 6.9/10

Cast: Sarah Jones, George Garcia and Jonny Coyne 

Creator: Elizabeth Sarnoff, Steven Lilien, Bryan Wynbrandt

This American fiction show is based on the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary built on Alcatraz island in San Francisco Bay. The prison is now closed but once kept some of the most dangerous criminals of America. The show takes the liberty to make a show around the conspiracies of the place.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V514ACIGp_k

In the interesting premise we see that under unknown circumstances, 256 inmates and 46 guards of the prison disappear without a trace. Later the disappeared ones start to appear one by one without ageing a day and resume their criminal activities with no realisation of disappearance. A special government unit is dedicated to finding and putting those criminals back in prison. If you are looking for mystery shows similar to Lost, try watching Alcatraz. 

11. Under the Dome (2013)

IMDB ratings: 6.5/10

Cast: Alexander Koch and Rachelle Lefevre

Creator: Stephen King

Based on a novel written by the sci-fi legend Stephen King, Under the Dome tells the story of the residents of the fictional small town called Chester's Mill, when a huge, transparent and indestructible dome suddenly cuts them off from the rest of the world. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_Y5YeYrqUk

Now the trapped residents try to find a way to discover the truth, origin and purpose of these domes. This journey forces them into situations where they learn more about each other than they ever knew. Under the Dome may not be on the top of this list but it’s quite a decent watch if you’re looking for mystery shows similar to Lost. 

12. Dark (2017)

IMDB ratings: 8.7/10

Cast: Louis Hofmann, Lisa Vicari and Gina Stiebitz

Creator: Baran bo Odar, Jantje Friese

The German-language Netflix series Dark is an interesting blend of Science fiction and Mystery. Truly a compelling and mind-bending story to watch. At the beginning of Dark, many children suspiciously start disappearing in the German town of Winden. The dark past of generational mysteries of 4 families living in the town namely, Kahnwald, Nielsen, Doppler, and Tiedemann is brought to light.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrwycJ08PSA

After the discovery of a wormhole, the lives of the families intertwine more than one can imagine. I believe every element of the show is top-notch, especially Dark’s cinematography, which is a TRUE masterpiece. If you are looking for TV series similar to Lost then the intense and gripping story of Dark is sure to keep you engrossed.

Honourable Mentions

Here are a few TV shows like Lost that didn’t make the list, but you can check them out nonetheless: 

  1. Carnivale
  2. Yellowjackets
  3. Game of Thrones
  4. Black Mirror
  5. Flashforward
Similar Lists