Heroes, which premiered on NBC in September 2006, follows ordinary people whose lives are transformed by unusual abilities and an approaching apocalyptic threat. Its emphasis on psychological consequences, human drama and unconventional powers helped distinguish it from more traditional superhero stories, and its unpredictable style remains notable two decades later now that the series is free to stream on Pluto TV.

The ensemble includes Hiro Nakamura, who bends time and space; Peter Petrelli, who copies nearby abilities; Claire Bennet, whose rapid healing is portrayed as disturbing as well as empowering; and Sylar, whose ability to understand how things work drives him to horrific violence. Other characters generate radiation, manipulate sound or struggle with dangerous alter egos, reinforcing the show’s focus on the physical and emotional costs of extraordinary abilities.