Dark Fantasy (or dark fantasy) is a subgenre that combines magical elements with horror and drama, creating worlds and stories in which the supernatural is intertwined with deep fears and dilemmas, giving greater density and weight to the narratives.
Originating from literature, the genre also stands out in television series, with different productions exploring different aspects of this aspect.
Next, discover ten dark fantasy works to watch on major streaming platforms.
10 dark fantasy series to stream in 2025
The Sandman
Based on Neil Gaiman’s comic book, “The Sandman” is one of the most important works when we think about dark fantasy in pop culture.
The plot follows Dream, one of the seven Perpetuals, who seeks to restore his kingdom after spending a century in prison. After escaping, he needs to recover his lost artifacts to rebuild “Dreaming”, the domain of dreams. On this journey, Sonho crosses different worlds and dimensions.
The series combines mythology, philosophy and existential horror into an epic, poetic and deeply dark narrative.
Terrible Penny
Set in Victorian London, “Penny Dreadful” brings together icons of Gothic literature such as Frankenstein, Dracula and Dorian Gray in dark plots that mix drama, action, fantasy and sensuality.
The story follows a group led by explorer Sir Malcolm Murray, who searches for his missing daughter. Together they will face vampires, demons and other supernatural forces.
Among the highlights are the stunning visuals, detailed costumes and intense performance by Eva Green, in one of her most memorable roles. The cast also includes Timothy Dalton, Billie Piper and Josh Hartnett.
His Dark Materials
Based on Philip Pullman’s trilogy, the series follows Lyra Belacqua on a journey through parallel universes where faith, science and magic intertwine. While investigating a mysterious element called Dust, she becomes involved in a struggle against divine and authoritarian forces.
With a melancholic and philosophical tone, the production combines dark fantasy, moral questions and a profound reflection on free will and power.
The cast includes Dafne Keen (X-23 from “X-Men” and “Logan”) and James McAvoy (from “Split”).
Carnival row
Mixing fantasy, politics and noir aesthetics, “Carnival Row” presents an industrial society where fairies, satyrs and other creatures live oppressed by humans.
In this gothic setting, the series tackles issues such as racism, immigration and bigotry, reflecting real-world inequalities with a dark and elegant approach.
Starring Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevingne, the plot follows a human detective and a fairy who meet again in a series of mysterious murders and escalating social tensions.
The Dark Crystal: The Age of Resistance
A prequel to the 1982 classic, the series expands the magical world of Thra and reveals how power corrupts even the purest creatures.
The story follows three young Gelflings who discover the truth behind the power of the Skeksis and begin a rebellion to save the world.
Despite the use of puppets and a fairy-tale aesthetic, the series is tragic and dark, depicting themes such as destruction, tyranny and resistance. The contrast between visual beauty and dense narrative creates a magical and unique experience.
Lovecraft Country
Set in the 1950s, “Lovecraft Country” combines cosmic horror and social commentary. The series follows Atticus Freeman, a young black man who travels across the segregated United States in search of his missing father, facing both Lovecraftian monsters and the brutal racism of the era.
With striking symbolism, the production transforms supernatural fear into a metaphor for human oppression. With an elaborate production, according to HBO standards, “Lovecraft Country” combines fantasy, horror and social criticism.
The strain
Created by Guillermo del Toro, “The Strain” reinvents the myth of the vampire with a scientific and apocalyptic approach. The series follows Dr. Ephraim Goodweather, head of the CDC’s Canary Project in New York, who is called to investigate a flight where everyone on board died.
His team discovers a virus that transforms people into bloodthirsty creatures, unleashing a threat capable of wiping out humanity.
Mixing biological horror, action and drama, the series stands out for its grotesque images and oppressive atmosphere, becoming one of the most visceral dark fantasy productions on TV.
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
Reinterpretation of the classic teenage witch, the series mixes the youthful universe with dark adventures, full of occultism and witchcraft.
In the plot, Sabrina Spellman must find a balance between her human and witch natures as she faces demonic cults and ethical dilemmas that threaten her family and the human world.
With an aesthetic inspired by 70s horror, the production combines acid humor, social criticism and satanic rituals, being an excellent example of youth fantasy with dark touches.
True Blood
Set in the southern United States, “True Blood” presents a world where vampires live with humans after the invention of synthetic blood, ceasing to depend on human food.
The series follows Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin), a telepathic waitress who falls in love with vampire Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer).
One of TV’s most iconic dark fantasy series, “True Blood” stands out for its surprising characters, as well as bringing action, drama and sensuality, typical elements of vampire stories.
Interview with the vampire
Based on the book by Anne Rice, the series tells the story of Louis and Lestat differently from the famous 1994 film starring Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise.
The plot delves into the relationship between the two vampires, exploring themes such as guilt, immortality, the loss of humanity, as well as addressing issues of race, abuse and LGBTQ+ elements, present in the original work.
With strong performances and a dark, tragic atmosphere, the production combines horror and sensitive drama.
The 10 Dark Fantasy Series to Stream in 2025 appeared first on Olhar Digital.
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Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
