Top Science Fiction & Genre Web Series Of 2014
2014 was a year of exciting trends in the world of science fiction web series.
There were projects produced that rivaled broadcast network quality in terms of production value and scope.
Also exciting was the continued emergence of voices often marginalized in mainstream media.
For example, our listing of 2014's best includes:
an all-ages adventure featuring a young girl of color as the main protagonist
a time travel drama centered around a lesbian love story
an exciting tale of a world dealing with the emergence of people with superpowers, produced by a Spanish writing-directing team
It's important to note, like our listing of top sci-fi web series for 2013, this list was not compiled by any scientific or statistical means.
Each web series earned its place because of its effectiveness in creating interesting worlds with compelling mythologies.
Also, some of these projects were released prior to 2014, but didn't come to our attention until last year.
So without further delay, here are our picks for the top science fiction and genre web series of 2014!
Frequency
Frequency boasts one of the most original premises on this list.
Set in a world where certain individuals are sensitive to mental "frequencies" that give them extra-sensory powers, two extraordinary women find themselves literally drawn together across time and space.
Boasting engaging characters, gorgeous cinematography, and well-choreographed action sequences, Frequency is a dynamic mix of sci-fi, drama, mystery, and romance told from a refreshing LGBT perspective.
A perspective still far too rare in speculative fiction.
Star Trek New Voyages (formerly Star Trek: Phase II)
When I stumbled upon this ongoing web series last year, I couldn't believe how long it had flown under my radar. The first episode debuted in 2004!
Star Trek New Voyages answers the question: what if the original television series was not canceled after three seasons in 1969, but instead completed its five-year run?
With that premise firmly in mind, the independent production team behind this outstanding series have created original, full-length episodes that almost perfectly mimic the aesthetic of the original Star Trek television show.
This labor of love is a terrific tribute to an iconic science fiction series that has become an indelible part of our cultural zeitgeist.
The Invaders
What if the only person standing between the Earth and alien invaders ... is an eight-year-old girl?
In this all-ages sci-fi adventure, we are introduced to Angie Martinez, a precocious young girl who loves to post video diary entries onto her YouTube channel Angie's Logs.
One night, Angie witnesses the landing of a very real UFO, and embarks on a grand adventure!
The Invaders is a delight, not only because it features a young protagonist of color, but also because it helps provide fun and imaginative science fiction for all young children.
Shadow Bound
This may sound like hyberbole (trust me it isn't), but there is nothing quite like this creepy, atmospheric horror web series.
Set in 1931, the story centers on Jack Pickman, an author who returns to his hometown of Veritas, CA to investigate the mysterious murder of his father, a veteran police detective, and the mental breakdown of his younger brother.
As Jack delves deeper into his father's case, he uncovers a dark underworld of cults, ritualistic murder, and pure terror.
Bottom line, Shadow Bound works as a truly unsettling, eerie, supernatural horror mystery with a distinct style you won't soon forget.
Larry & Lucy
Larry & Lucy is sci-fi comedy reminiscent of popular classic sitcoms Mork & Mindy and Third Rock From The Sun.
In the series we meet Lucy, a wry, put upon young woman who has finally broken up with her ne'er do well boyfriend.
She literally stumbles into Larry, a charming eccentric who she soon discovers has a very big secret - he's actually a tourist from another planet!
Larry & Lucy is a light-hearted comedy that works because of the great chemistry between the two series leads.
Gifted Corporation
This ambitious and slick project is the creation of a dynamic Spanish writing-directing team.
Set in a world where ordinary people suddenly find they are "gifted" with superhuman powers, two law enforcement officers stumble upon the phenomenon while pursuing a serial killer.
As they continue to investigate the mystery, they discover a sinister global conspiracy at work.
Gifted Corporation is similar in theme to tv shows such a The 4400 or Heroes, but what differentiates it is its European sensibilities and flair.
This polished project creates a very compelling universe you will most definitely want to revisit.
OZMAT
What if almost every significant scientific breakthrough in the United States over the past several decades was secretly due to the work of one very clandestine government agency?
This is the premise behind the terrific all-ages web series OZMAT.
OZMAT (Office Of Zoological Mutations, Anomalies & Transformations) tells the story of Dr. Elias Lipton, a kind, mild-mannered genius who oversees the care of fantastic creatures the U.S. government has placed into his custody.
However, facing the imminent shutdown of OZMAT by the Department Of Defense, Dr. Lipton makes the desperate decision to release all of his agency's classified files to the public.
This web series is a fantastic mix of live-action, animation, and broadcast-quality production value that will keep you engrossed in Dr. Lipton's struggle to save the precious, wonderful creatures of OZMAT.
Nightwing: The Series
Nightwing: The Series tells the story of Batman's very first partner, Dick Grayson a.k.a. "Robin The Boy Wonder."
Dick has grown up, and after having a final falling out with his mentor, decides to leave Gotham City for Bludhaven under the new codename Nightwing.
This web series tells a story of Nightwing's solo adventures as the new protector of Bludhaven - and it looks like a million bucks!
In fact, the series production quality is on par with any other superhero tv show currently on the air, such as The Flash or Arrow.
If you dig well done superhero stories, definitely put Nightwing: The Series at the top of your must watch list.
Dynamo
When you first watch Dynamo, your first thought will probably be "What the hell am I watching?" Your second thought may be "Wow, how did they DO that?!"
I know I did, and I'm so glad for it.
Dynamo is a sci-fi project that defies description or categorization.
It's a unique mix of many genres including space opera, dystopia, cyberpunk, and more.
The result of this mish-mash is a gorgeous, surreal, mind-blowing, challenging, and ultimately enjoyable romp with an aesthetic all its own.
Did I mention it looks G-O-R-G-E-0-U-S?
But don't just take my word for it, jump down the rabbit hole.
Ragged Isle
Ragged Isle was the first web series I discovered in 2014, and it also remains one of the best I've seen.
This atmospheric, supernatural mystery about the bizarre goings-on in a tiny Maine fishing community is similar to Twin Peaks in tone, except it makes far more sense.
The series was filmed on location in beautiful, scenic Maine using local actors and production crew.
Everything about Ragged Isle is exemplary, including the chilling central mystery, as well as the very charismatic young series lead.
The mystique and beauty of the Ragged Isle makes it one of 2014's best.
Whew!
Well, there you have it, our list of the top science fiction and genre web series discovered in 2014.
Please take a moment to help these talented, independent filmmakers by sharing this list, and where applicable, visiting their official websites to learn more about their work.
Thanks, and we look forward to sharing even more terrific sci-fi projects with you in the new year.
Wishing you all the best in 2015!
Rod Faulkner
Founder, The 7th Matrix
Help Keep The 7th Matrix Independent and Ad-Free!
