20 Best Time Loop Movies & TV Episodes You Can Watch Over and Over
Time loop stories hook me with their clever mix of repetition and discovery, where characters are trapped in the same day or moment, forced to find a way out. They blend humor, drama, and sometimes horror, making each loop a fresh chance to explore life’s big questions or just enjoy the chaos.
From iconic comedies to gripping sci-fi, this list ranks the 20 best time loop movies and TV episodes, starting with the least impactful but still worth watching, up to the absolute must-sees. Each one offers a unique spin on the genre, perfect for anyone craving a story you can revisit endlessly.
20. ‘The Fare’ (2019)
This indie gem follows a taxi driver, Harris, who picks up a mysterious passenger, Penny, only to find they’re stuck reliving the same ride. The $500,000 budget led to a tight, emotional story with gorgeous black-and-white visuals, earning a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score. The loop’s twist reveals a bittersweet truth about love and fate.
It’s a quiet, contained tale, but the chemistry between Gino Anthony Pesi and Brinna Kelly makes it compelling. The low budget keeps it simple, yet it’s a solid entry for time loop fans.
19. ‘Black Mirror: White Bear’ (2013)
In this chilling ‘Black Mirror’ episode, Victoria wakes with no memory, hunted by masked killers while bystanders watch. The loop’s dark twist—she’s a criminal being punished—flips the narrative. Lenora Crichlow’s raw performance carries the horror of her endless torment.
It’s less about breaking the loop and more about its cruel purpose, making it a haunting, one-of-a-kind take. The single-loop focus limits its scope but packs a punch.
18. ‘Two Distant Strangers’ (2020)
This Oscar-winning short film stars Joey Bada$$ as Carter, a man caught in a loop where he’s killed by a racist cop. The 30-minute runtime tackles police brutality with gut-wrenching clarity, using the loop to show the cycle of systemic violence. It’s raw and unflinching, with a powerful message.
Its brevity keeps it lower on the list, but the emotional weight and sharp writing make it unforgettable. It’s a must-watch for its social commentary alone.
17. ‘Mondays: See You “This” Week!’ (2022)
This Japanese comedy blends ‘Office Space’ with time loops, trapping office workers in a week-long cycle of mundane work. The $1 million budget delivers quirky humor as employees slowly realize they’re stuck, led by Tomomitsu Adachi’s deadpan performance. It’s a fresh take on the grind of daily life.
The workplace setting feels relatable, but the humor can drag. Still, its clever commentary on routine makes it a fun, light watch.
16. ‘Before I Fall’ (2017)
Zoey Deutch stars as Sam, a teen reliving her last day after a car crash. Based on Lauren Oliver’s novel, this $5 million film explores bullying and redemption as Sam tries to fix her mistakes. It earned $18 million but shines for its emotional depth.
The teen drama angle feels familiar, but Deutch’s growth from selfish to selfless keeps it engaging. It’s a heartfelt look at second chances.
15. ‘Supernatural: Mystery Spot’ (2008)
Sam Winchester, played by Jared Padalecki, watches his brother Dean die repeatedly in this ‘Supernatural’ episode. The trickster Gabriel orchestrates the loop to teach Sam a lesson about loss. The mix of humor and heartbreak, with Dean’s creative deaths, makes it a fan favorite.
It’s a standalone episode, so it lacks the depth of full-loop stories, but the emotional stakes and clever writing land it solidly on the list.
14. ‘Happy Death Day’ (2017)
This horror-comedy follows Tree, played by Jessica Rothe, a college student killed on her birthday, only to wake up in the same day. The $4.8 million film grossed $125 million, blending slasher thrills with laughs. Tree’s growth from shallow to heroic is the heart of the story.
Its sequel expands the loop, but the original’s tight pacing and Rothe’s charm make it a genre standout. It’s pure fun with a sharp edge.
13. ‘The Endless’ (2017)
This $200,000 indie sci-fi horror follows brothers, played by directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, returning to a cult they escaped. They find members trapped in loops controlled by a cosmic entity. The creepy atmosphere and complex narrative elevate it.
Its low budget limits spectacle, but the unsettling vibe and unique mythology make it a cult hit. It’s a slow burn that rewards patient viewers.
12. ‘Charmed: Déjà Vu All Over Again’ (1999)
In this ‘Charmed’ episode, the Halliwell sisters face a demon, Tempus, who resets the day to kill them repeatedly. Alyssa Milano and Holly Marie Combs shine as the sisters fight to break the cycle. The late-’90s vibe adds charm to the supernatural stakes.
It’s a fun, early take on time loops, though the TV budget constrains its scope. The sisterly bond keeps it engaging for fans.
11. ‘One More Time’ (2023)
This Swedish comedy sees Amelia, played by Hedda Stiernstedt, relive her 18th birthday after a wish on her 40th. The $2 million Netflix film mixes coming-of-age humor with nostalgia, as Amelia confronts her past. It’s light but heartfelt, with a 2020s spin on youth.
The familiar setup holds it back, but the charm and emotional beats make it a cozy watch for loop fans.
10. ‘Run Lola Run’ (1998)
Franka Potente stars as Lola, racing to save her boyfriend in 20-minute loops. This $1.5 million German film grossed $7 million, blending kinetic visuals and a techno soundtrack. Each loop tweaks the outcome, showing how small choices ripple.
Its short runtime and experimental style feel fresh, though it’s less character-driven. The energy and creativity make it a classic.
9. ‘The X-Files: Monday’ (1999)
Mulder and Scully, played by David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson, are stuck in a bank robbery loop that ends in tragedy. A woman aware of the cycle tries to stop it. The episode’s grounded tone and emotional weight set it apart in the series.
It’s a strong standalone, but the loop’s resolution feels rushed. Still, the chemistry and tension make it a sci-fi gem.
8. ‘Naked’ (2017)
Marlon Wayans plays Rob, waking naked in an elevator on his wedding day, trapped in a loop. This $5 million Netflix comedy grossed modest streaming views but thrives on Wayans’ chaotic humor. Each loop brings new antics as Rob tries to reach the altar.
It leans heavily on slapstick, which can tire, but the wild energy and heart keep it entertaining for comedy fans.
7. ‘Doctor Who: Heaven Sent’ (2015)
Peter Capaldi’s Doctor is trapped in a castle, pursued by a creature in a loop lasting billions of years. This $2 million episode is a solo showcase, blending grief and resilience. Capaldi’s raw performance and the twisty narrative make it a standout.
The heavy tone might not suit all, but its ambition and emotional depth earn it a high spot.
6. ‘Source Code’ (2011)
Jake Gyllenhaal’s Colter Stevens relives eight minutes on a train to stop a bombing. The $32 million film grossed $147 million, blending sci-fi and thriller elements. Gyllenhaal’s intensity and the tight pacing keep you hooked as he unravels the mystery.
The loop’s short span limits emotional depth, but the clever plot and action make it a thrilling ride.
5. ‘Stargate SG-1: Window of Opportunity’ (2000)
Colonel O’Neill and Teal’c, played by Richard Dean Anderson and Christopher Judge, are stuck in a 10-hour loop caused by an alien device. The $1 million episode mixes humor—like O’Neill golfing through a stargate—with clever problem-solving.
It’s a fan favorite for its lighthearted take, though the TV scope feels small. The duo’s chemistry makes it endlessly rewatchable.
4. ‘Russian Doll’ (2019-2022)
Natasha Lyonne’s Nadia dies on her birthday, restarting at her party in this $10 million Netflix series. Season 1’s eight episodes blend dark comedy and trauma, with Lyonne’s gritty charm shining. It grossed massive streaming views, earning critical acclaim.
The second season stretches the concept, but the first’s tight narrative and heart make it a top pick.
3. ‘Legends of Tomorrow: Here I Go Again’ (2018)
Zari, played by Tala Ashe, is trapped in a loop where the Waverider explodes. This $2 million episode uses humor and heart to integrate Zari into the team, with fun montages and a sci-fi twist. It’s a highlight of the Arrowverse.
The ensemble focus dilutes the stakes slightly, but the charm and pacing make it a joy to revisit.
2. ‘Palm Springs’ (2020)
Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti star as Nyles and Sarah, stuck at a wedding in a $5 million Hulu comedy. Grossing big streaming numbers, it blends romance and existential humor. Their chemistry and the fresh take on living without consequences elevate it.
It’s not as groundbreaking as the top pick, but its wit and heart make it a modern classic.
1. ‘Groundhog Day’ (1993)
Bill Murray’s Phil Connors, a cynical weatherman, relives February 2 in this $14.6 million comedy, grossing $71 million. Harold Ramis’ direction and Murray’s arc from jerk to hero set the time loop standard. Its mix of humor, romance, and growth is timeless.
No film nails the loop’s emotional and comedic beats better. It’s the gold standard, endlessly rewatchable.
Which time loop movie or episode is your favorite, or did I miss one you love? Share your picks in the comments!