If there is one thing that the world is now definitely familiar with is disasters and the trauma they leave behind.
From pandemics to global climatic shifts, it’s been a rollercoaster ride since. As cinematic as our present-day life looks, you would be surprised by the countless options Hollywood has been putting forward for a long time now.
Hollywood’s obsession with disaster movies is highly evident as we go through the options and the diversity they offer.
And is there a better genre to show off the cutting-edge technology Hollywood has been building all these years?
The genre rose to its fame in the 1970s with star-studded action thrillers like The Airport and The Poseidon Adventure and then after a brief period of dormancy somewhere around the mid-nineties it regained its glory.
And from then tornadoes, asteroids, volcanoes, end of the world have all done a very sophisticated and convincing job of making us fall for the genre.
There is almost always hope at the end of these movies and that’s a major driving force for their success as well.
Amidst so much chaos, maybe it’s the right time to weigh out your worries. Our personal list encompasses a few from the lot that we consider are worth your time.
Here are ENTOIN's personal Top Disaster Movies.
DramaSci-Fi
Director:
Fritz Lang
Release Date:
Sun Mar 13 1927
Star Cast:
Brigitte Helm, Alfred Abel, Gustav Fröhlich
Budget:
DEM 6,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,349,711
Metropolis is widely celebrated as one of the most groundbreaking and influential films in cinema history, leaving a lasting impact on generations of movie lovers.
Considering its release era, the film's visual storytelling and ambitious themes are nothing short of astonishing.
Set in a futuristic city, Metropolis explores a stark division between elite industrialists living in luxury and laborers surviving underground, all overshadowed by towering skyscrapers.
Tension erupts when John Fredersen’s son falls for a woman from the lower class, sparking chaos, rebellion, and the unforgettable introduction of iconic robots.
Metropolis weaves together compelling themes of relationships, emotion, and societal structure, offering a haunting portrayal of the disasters humanity may create.
This man-made catastrophe stands as a powerful reminder that only people have the power to rebuild the society they break apart.
Recommended:
DramaSci-FiThriller
Director:
Alfonso Cuarón
Release Date:
Fri Oct 4 2013
Star Cast:
Sandra Bullock, George Clooney, Ed Harris
Budget:
$100,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$773,031,583
"Gravity" stars Sandra Bullock and George Clooney as astronauts thrust into a dire situation when disaster strikes their spacecraft. Isolated in the vastness of space, their struggle for survival becomes both a technical and emotional ordeal.
As the journey unfolds, only one of them remains, grappling with dwindling oxygen supplies and the overwhelming sense of isolation. The film skillfully creates a gripping, high-stakes atmosphere that immerses the viewer in every desperate moment.
Though not a traditional disaster film, "Gravity" masterfully blends elements of suspense, drama, and thrilling visual storytelling. Hallucinations become moments of revelation and hope, making this space adventure a truly unforgettable experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
DramaHorrorMystery
Director:
Alfred Hitchcock
Release Date:
Fri Mar 29 1963
Star Cast:
Rod Taylor, Tippi Hedren, Jessica Tandy
Budget:
$2,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$53,659
Melanie Daniels (Tippi Hedren), a young woman, travels to Bodega Bay in search of Mitch Brenner (Rod Taylor), a charming man she recently met in San Francisco. However, her visit takes a terrifying turn when flocks of birds begin to attack her and the local community without warning.
The film masterfully builds suspense, using the chilling screeches of birds to create an unsettling atmosphere. Even moments of silence keep viewers on edge, making every sound or movement feel startling.
With its ambiguous ending and lack of clear explanations, the movie lingers in your mind long after it's over. This sense of unresolved mystery is a hallmark of classic thrillers and adds to the haunting experience.
Recommended:
DramaHorrorSci-Fi
Director:
Jeff Nichols
Release Date:
Thu Nov 10 2011
Star Cast:
Michael Shannon, Jessica Chastain, Shea Whigham
Budget:
$5,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$3,741,098
Curtis lives in a loving home with his wife and their young daughter, who is hearing-impaired. Beneath the surface, however, he is plagued by terrifying dreams and visions of impending disaster—nightmares he keeps hidden from his family.
Haunted by these recurring hallucinations, Curtis becomes increasingly obsessed with enlarging their storm shelter, a fixation that strains his relationship with his wife and leads him to seek help from psychiatrists.
The line between his dreams and reality begins to blur when an actual tornado warning suddenly strikes, catching both his wife and the audience off guard. Events from his visions appear to come true, blurring the boundaries between the real and the imagined.
"Take Shelter" is a compelling story that explores humanity’s relationship with fear and uncertainty. Ultimately, it is a reminder that in times of greatest crisis, the steadfast support of family can be our strongest shelter.
Recommended:
AdventureDramaHistory
Director:
Ron Howard
Release Date:
Fri Jun 30 1995
Star Cast:
Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon
Budget:
$52,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$355,237,933
Jim Lovell, who previously orbited the moon on Apollo 8, receives a new opportunity to command Apollo 13 after unexpected issues sideline another crew.
Shortly after launch, the mission encounters a series of life-threatening complications, turning the safe return of the astronauts into a daunting and suspenseful challenge.
Faced with crisis, the crew and ground team innovate under pressure, relying on teamwork, resourcefulness, and determination to survive.
This unforgettable expedition remains etched in history, and the film masterfully captures the tension, resilience, and triumph of the Apollo 13 mission.
ActionHorrorThriller
Director:
Sang-ho Yeon
Release Date:
Wed Jul 20 2016
Star Cast:
Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi, Ma Dong-seok
Budget:
₩10,000,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$92,764,199
As "Aloha 'Oe" drifts hauntingly through the tunnel, the ever-present threat of zombies returns to the screen—proving once again how difficult they are to escape.
A catastrophic chemical leak at a biotech facility unleashes a fast-spreading zombie virus across South Korea, plunging the country into chaos.
Amidst the outbreak, a divorced father travels with his daughter on an early morning train to reunite her with her mother. Their train ride quickly spirals into a desperate fight for survival that is far from ordinary.
As the infection ravages the train, passengers are pushed to their limits, revealing both the darkest and most compassionate sides of humanity. This unforgettable journey cements itself as a classic in disaster cinema.
MysterySci-FiThriller
Director:
Terry Gilliam
Release Date:
Fri Jan 5 1996
Star Cast:
Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt
Budget:
$29,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$168,839,459
In a dystopian future, humanity is forced to live underground, far from a world ravaged by a deadly virus. While this setting may not seem appealing, "12 Monkeys" quickly proves to be a fascinating and gripping film.
After a virus almost wipes out mankind, a mysterious group known as the Twelve Monkeys is suspected of unleashing the catastrophe. Desperate to find answers, scientists from the future devise a plan to change the course of history.
They send James Cole back in time on a mission to discover the virus's origin and prevent humanity's doom. What unfolds is a mind-bending, thrilling narrative brought to life by a stellar cast.
With a complex plot and outstanding performances, "12 Monkeys" stands as one of cinema's most compelling disaster movies. Prepare to be captivated and lose yourself in its unforgettable time loop.
DramaRomance
Director:
James Cameron
Release Date:
Fri Dec 19 1997
Star Cast:
Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane
Budget:
$200,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,264,743,305
Few films have achieved the worldwide acclaim and emotional impact of "Titanic."
James Cameron’s masterpiece swept audiences around the globe on a breathtaking journey, blending romance and disaster aboard the famed 'unsinkable' ship.
The film tells the unforgettable love story of 17-year-old Rose DeWitt Bukater and Jack Dawson—a romance defined not by wealth, but by art, passion, and a zest for life. Their bond unfolds as tragedy looms, creating tension and hope amid the looming catastrophe.
When the Titanic hits a massive iceberg, chaos erupts on board. While the privileged cling to their status, those less fortunate hold on to hope—and watch as fate transforms the course of everyone’s lives.
Through its gripping narrative and dynamic characters, "Titanic" immerses viewers in a journey that is as life-affirming as it is heartbreaking.
The film stands among the finest achievements in cinema history, with its art direction, cast, costumes, and iconic music coming together in a display of true perfection.
HorrorMysteryThriller
Director:
Jaume Balagueró, Paco Plaza
Release Date:
Fri Nov 23 2007
Star Cast:
Manuela Velasco, Ferran Terraza, Jorge-Yamam Serrano
Budget:
€1,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$32,511,655
Another film that skillfully uses the found footage technique, 'Rec' begins with a journalist and her cameraman visiting a local firehouse to document a night on duty.
When the team receives an emergency call about an elderly woman trapped and screaming in her apartment, what first appears to be a routine rescue quickly becomes terrifying. At the scene, the crew discovers multiple victims infected by a mysterious, rapidly spreading virus that appears to cause disturbing, possession-like symptoms.
Reminiscent of a zombie outbreak, this deadly and unnamed disease blurs the line between science and the supernatural. 'Rec' is so gripping that, whether you're religious or not, it may leave you questioning the possibility of demonic possession.
DramaHistoryThriller
Director:
J.A. Bayona
Release Date:
Fri Jan 4 2013
Star Cast:
Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland
Budget:
$45,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$198,087,212
Dr. Maria Bennet, her husband Henry, and their three sons embark on a vacation to Khao Lak, Thailand, seeking relaxation and adventure as a family.
Their holiday turns into a nightmare when the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami strikes, forcefully separating them and leaving them to face unimaginable destruction with no means of communication. Amid the chaos and ruins, the family must confront what seems impossible.
While each member struggles to survive and reunite, they also extend their help to others in desperate need. This gripping story of perseverance and courage is sure to make you reflect on the power of hope and the importance of gratitude.
On their desperate journey to find each other, the Bennet family endures hardship, lends support, and discovers profound lessons about love, survival, and the human spirit.
DramaThriller
Director:
Steven Soderbergh
Release Date:
Fri Sep 9 2011
Star Cast:
Matt Damon, Kate Winslet, Jude Law
Budget:
$60,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$136,515,867
"Contagion" eerily mirrors real-life events, making it easy to mistake its plot for recent global headlines. The film centers on the outbreak of a deadly pandemic and realistically portrays the world's struggle to contain a rapidly spreading virus.
The story begins when Beth Emhoff returns from a business trip in Hong Kong, unknowingly bringing home a virus that swiftly devastates families—including her own—as her sudden death leaves her husband immune but grieving.
As the outbreak accelerates, scientists at the CDC and global health organizations race against time to identify the virus and develop a cure. Society unravels under fear and uncertainty, highlighting the chaos of a world facing an invisible threat.
By the time a vaccine emerges, the consequences have already been profound. The film’s stark depiction of catastrophe resonates deeply today—its sobering ending is both unsettling and strangely comforting in turbulent times.
This gripping, fast-paced thriller is best suited for viewers ready to confront how close fiction can come to reality.
ActionDramaHistory
Director:
Peter Berg
Release Date:
Fri Sep 30 2016
Star Cast:
Mark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell, Douglas M. Griffin
Budget:
$110,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$121,790,373
"Deepwater Horizon" is inspired by the true events of the catastrophic oil rig explosion and subsequent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
This gripping film masterfully balances an accurate portrayal of the disaster with heart-pounding action and adventure. It brings the tension and chaos to life, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats throughout.
The story centers on Chief Electronics Technician Michael "Mike" Williams and Offshore Installation Manager James "Mr. Jimmy" Harrell, who are alarmed by the insufficient testing conducted on recently completed cement work.
When disputes erupt over these safety tests, tragedy quickly follows: a disastrous cement job leads to a deadly explosion, triggering a series of equipment failures and a failed attempt to seal the well, which ignites the escaping oil.
The incident results in tremendous loss of life, leaving survival to fate. As the deadliest oil disaster in U.S. history, "Deepwater Horizon" honors the 11 lives lost, providing a powerful and emotional cinematic journey.
ActionDramaThriller
Director:
Roar Uthaug
Release Date:
Fri Aug 28 2015
Star Cast:
Kristoffer Joner, Ane Dahl Torp, Jonas Hoff Oftebro
Budget:
€6,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$12,975,143
"The Wave" is a Norwegian disaster film centered on a close-knit small town and its everyday residents. The story explores how their ordinary lives are upended when an unforeseen calamity strikes, forcing them out of their comfort zones.
The film's simplicity proves that you don't always need a massive budget or Hollywood flair to craft a powerful disaster story. With the arrival of a devastating tsunami, the town's fate hangs in the balance.
Balancing human relationships with action-packed rescue efforts, the director delivers a compelling narrative with impressive execution. The visuals and soundtrack stand out, enhancing the overall experience.
Norway has a track record of producing remarkable cinema, and "The Wave" is no exception—it's a must-watch for fans of the disaster genre.
ComedyFantasy
Director:
Evan Goldberg, Seth Rogen
Release Date:
Wed Jun 12 2013
Star Cast:
James Franco, Jonah Hill, Seth Rogen
Budget:
$32,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$126,041,322
While the storyline of 'This is the End' may not be its strongest element, this film shines as a wildly entertaining comedy—perfect for audiences in search of laughter rather than serious drama.
The story begins with James Franco hosting a star-studded party, disrupted suddenly by a massive earthquake that creates a sinkhole in his backyard. From that point on, chaos and ridiculous events unfold.
From exorcisms and devils to visions of heaven, the film offers far more than the trailers suggest. Amid all the outrageous, apocalyptic humor, there are also surprising reflections on friendship.
DramaSport
Director:
William Goldenberg
Release Date:
Thu Jan 16 2025
Star Cast:
Jharrel Jerome, Anthony Robles, Jennifer Lopez
Among disaster films, those centered on man-made catastrophes, like Unstoppable, deserve special recognition. These movies often depict shockingly plausible scenarios, adding to their tension and appeal.
Unstoppable taps into the nostalgia of old train journeys but flips it on its head. Imagine the terror when an unmanned, runaway train filled with toxic chemicals and diesel barrels down the tracks, its brakes unengaged and its throttle set to full speed.
A simple mistake by a station engineer sets off this nerve-wracking crisis as the out-of-control train heads for a deadly curve. The storyline is direct and unembellished, but the ninety-eight minutes are packed with gripping, continuous action that keeps you riveted.
Adding to the intensity, Unstoppable is inspired by true events, making it even more compelling. With memorable performances by Denzel Washington, Chris Pine, and the infamous train #777, this film stands out as a must-watch in the disaster genre.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Steven Spielberg
Release Date:
Wed Jun 29 2005
Star Cast:
Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Tim Robbins
Budget:
$132,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$603,873,119
Dr. Clayton Forrester, a renowned atomic scientist, is enjoying a fishing trip with colleagues when a mysterious, massive object crashes in a nearby town. The disturbance quickly sparks curiosity and concern.
Soon, it is revealed that Earth is facing an unprecedented threat: an impending invasion by Martians. Reports flood in about strange cylinders landing worldwide, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
Panic spreads across the globe as news emerges that the alien invaders are growing stronger. Governments respond with force, even deploying atomic weapons—yet nothing seems to halt the Martian advance.
As humanity races against time, hope appears lost, and all conventional solutions fail. In an unexpected twist, something completely unforeseen becomes the key to mankind’s survival.
A miraculous event ultimately spares the world from total disaster, turning the tide in the most surprising way.
HorrorSci-FiThriller
Director:
Matt Reeves
Release Date:
Fri Jan 18 2008
Star Cast:
Mike Vogel, Jessica Lucas, Lizzy Caplan
Budget:
$25,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$172,394,180
"Cloverfield" (2008) is a gripping American monster film, uniquely told through found footage from a personal camcorder. The film's narrative unfolds through videos reportedly recovered by the United States Department of Defense, with much of the action centered around the area once known as Central Park.
The story immerses viewers into the chaos as a group of friends navigates a city under siege, desperately searching for a missing companion. Amid the devastation, a colossal creature wreaks havoc, toppling monuments and buildings while emergency protocols struggle to keep up with the destruction.
The film's found-footage style delivers an intense, immersive experience, though it does come with some drawbacks, such as shaky camerawork that may not appeal to everyone.
Overall, "Cloverfield" succeeds as a thrilling disaster movie, though a deeper exploration of the monster's origins would have added welcome depth to the story.
ActionDramaThriller
Director:
John Guillermin
Release Date:
Sat Dec 14 1974
Star Cast:
Paul Newman, Steve McQueen, William Holden
Budget:
$14,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$116,000,000
"The Towering Inferno" is often credited with bringing well-deserved recognition to the disaster movie genre, solidifying its place in cinema history.
The film centers on the unveiling of the world's tallest building: a stunning glass tower standing 1,688 feet (515 meters) and 138 stories high.
Architect Doug Roberts takes pride in his creation, designed for a prestigious client. However, during inspections, Roberts notices critical wiring deficiencies, fueling his suspicion of budget cuts—though he lacks concrete evidence.
Tragedy strikes during the building's dedication ceremony when a fire erupts, prompting urgent efforts to evacuate guests.
As disaster unfolds with challenge after challenge, "The Towering Inferno" delivers a gripping account of a grand project spiraling into a multimillion-dollar catastrophe, securing its legacy as a classic of the genre.
ActionThriller
Director:
Ric Roman Waugh
Release Date:
Fri Dec 18 2020
Star Cast:
Gerard Butler, Morena Baccarin, Roger Dale Floyd
Budget:
$34,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$52,300,000
"Greenland" (2020) delivers a heart-pounding disaster experience as a comet hurtles toward Earth, threatening total annihilation. The film centers on a father’s desperate journey to save his family, encountering chaos, fear, and unlikely acts of heroism along the way.
Starring Gerard Butler, this suspenseful thriller stands out with its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of an ordinary family facing extraordinary circumstances. "Greenland" is a gripping addition to the modern disaster movie genre, captivating audiences with relentless tension and genuine human drama.
ActionAdventureHorror
Director:
Alexandre Aja
Release Date:
Fri Jul 12 2019
Star Cast:
Kaya Scodelario, Barry Pepper, Morfydd Clark
Budget:
$13,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$91,542,097
When Haley Keller receives a call from her sister warning her about an approaching hurricane in Florida, she sets out to find her estranged father despite the imminent danger.
Ignoring evacuations and the threat of flooding, Haley arrives at the family house, where she ventures into the crawl space with the family dog and discovers her father unconscious.
Soon after, chaos erupts as a pack of vicious alligators invades, shattering any hope of easy rescue. The stakes intensify as survival becomes a relentless fight against rising waters, deadly predators, and a merciless storm.
In this battle against nature's fury and bloodthirsty alligators, there are no simple solutions—survival depends on courage and quick thinking.
ActionAdventureHorror
Director:
Marc Forster
Release Date:
Fri Jun 21 2013
Star Cast:
Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Daniella Kertesz
Budget:
$190,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$540,455,876
Zombies are just the perfect disasters. And at the rate things are going half of the world even wouldn’t be surprised at a zombie apocalypse happening.
Brad Pitt as former UN agent Lane along with his family is stuck in traffic witnessing a rapid zombie overrun.
In a quest to save his family and find the cure they embark on a dangerous journey.
There are some spectacular shots worth mentioning. Not the traditional zombie movies as we believe there is something unique to this movie that makes it worth watching.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Roland Emmerich
Release Date:
Wed Jul 3 1996
Star Cast:
Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum
Budget:
$75,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$817,400,891
David Levinson, an MIT-trained satellite technician decodes a signal that is about to change the history of mankind.
Aliens have decided to strip the earth of its natural resources simultaneously all over the world.
Only a unanimous approach would work against them as they are prepared for worse than we can imagine.
ActionAdventureThriller
Director:
Jan de Bont
Release Date:
Fri May 10 1996
Star Cast:
Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton, Cary Elwes
Budget:
$92,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$494,580,615
When a deadly tornado not only tears down the shelter roof but also her family Jo Thornton makes it her mission to make sure that it never happens again.
Jo, years later is a meteorologist obsessed with chasing tornadoes and heads a team. In order to execute her dream project ‘Dorothy’ which would be a revolution for tornado research calls for unforeseen circumstances.
At the brink of divorce, an invention that would finally quench her childhood trauma takes Jo to a tornado that gives indeed a lot of answers.
The movie also earned Oscar nominations for visual effects and sound design.
ActionAdventureBiography
Director:
Baltasar Kormákur
Release Date:
Fri Jun 1 2018
Star Cast:
Shailene Woodley, Sam Claflin, Jeffrey Thomas
Budget:
$35,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$59,945,012
When Tami and Richard set out on a journey that could finally make a change in their isolated lives, they never knew they were sailing into a disaster that was going to change their future lives together or apart.
Tami Oldham arrives in Tahiti on a schooner and meets Richard Sharp, A British sailor.
They become acquaintances and almost fall in love. When the Crompton’s offer Richard a good offer to sail the luxury yacht Hazaña to San Francisco.
He accepts the offer only under the condition that Tami is allowed on the trip with the same offer as he was offered.
On their way to falling in love, the journey lands them in the middle of a dangerous storm that thrashes their souls on unfriendly tides.
As the boat steers to Hawaii in the hope of survival, they lose a lot more than what they would’ve imagined on this devastating journey of love and survival.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Frant Gwo
Release Date:
Tue Feb 5 2019
Star Cast:
Jing Wu, Chuxiao Qu, Guangjie Li
Budget:
$48,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$699,992,512
It’s the year 2061 and the aging sun is about to swallow the earth and there is no other option but to move earth out of the solar system.
Earth engines and torque engines are used. As the earth moves away from the sun most of the surface solidifies and a large number of the population dies due to different cataclysmic disasters and rest take refuge in the shelters under the engines.
When in dire need to save civilization some very important people are forced to take specific measures and what if the earth is no longer feasible and nothing can be done to reverse it.
Posing a very serious question, the movie has some admirable graphic works and overall qualifies as a good movie.
ActionDramaThriller
Director:
George Seaton, Henry Hathaway
Release Date:
Thu Mar 5 1970
Star Cast:
Burt Lancaster, Dean Martin, George Kennedy
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$100,489,151
Among the first and best of Hollywood’s disaster movies, veteran George Seaton’s Airport to date holds a large number of admirers.
A heavy snowstorm and a Boeing 707 that misjudged the runway gets stuck in the snow and closes the runway.
Demolition expert D. O. Guerrero is aboard flight TGA 2 and plans to suicide.
When the bomb explodes on the plane an emergency landing on the longest runaway is inevitable.
And how do they avoid a massive collision from happening? There are also quite a few subplots that worked very well within the main plot as well.
ActionDramaThriller
Director:
John Andreas Andersen, Jean-Luc Julien
Release Date:
Fri Oct 29 2021
Star Cast:
Kristine Kujath Thorp, Henrik Bjelland, Rolf Kristian Larsen
Box Office (Worldwide):
$4,025,723
"The Burning Sea" is a Norwegian catastrophe thriller about an oil platform collapse and its frightening aftermath, was released in 2021. The indiscriminate drilling of the ocean floor in the North Sea resulted in an environmental disaster that no one could anticipate.
While not a huge Hollywood blockbuster, it achieved success in its area. Despite a tepid critical review, with critics complimenting the graphics but finding the characters and narrative predictable, the film proved popular with Norwegian moviegoers, making about $3 million in Norway alone.
This excellent domestic result is likely due to the film's consideration of timely subjects such as environmental stewardship and the human cost of resource exploitation.
ComedyDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Adam McKay
Release Date:
Fri Dec 24 2021
Star Cast:
Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep
Budget:
$75,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$791,863
"Don't Look Up" is about an apocalyptic comet! Two astronomers discover a planet-killer hurtling towards Earth. If you think the plot is similar to Armageddon, think again!
Their warnings are surprisingly taken lightly. Humanity proves to be hilariously blase due to media indifference, political manipulation, and societal obsession with celebrity drama.
Despite mixed reviews, its star power (DiCaprio, Lawrence, and Streep) and timely satire on climate change ignorance resonated. It amassed 413 million viewing hours on Netflix, becoming one of their most-watched films ever.
While some criticised its heavy-handedness, its dark humour and relatable frustrations with societal issues struck a chord, sparking real-world conversations about climate inaction.
BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Patricia Riggen
Release Date:
Fri Nov 13 2015
Star Cast:
Antonio Banderas, Rodrigo Santoro, Juliette Binoche
Budget:
$26,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$27,972,023
When a mine in Chile collapses leaving the only pathway out locked, 33 miners find it difficult to survive as the mining company takes no interest in rescuing them.
In a challenging struggle between life and death with the intervention of the government whether they survive is the most challenging aspect of the movie.
Based on the 2010 mining incident the movie proved to be actually good.
ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Wolfgang Petersen
Release Date:
Fri Jun 30 2000
Star Cast:
George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, John C. Reilly
Budget:
$140,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$328,718,434
One last late-season fishing expedition that rode into a confluence of two powerful weather fronts and a hurricane costs the crew of Andrea Gail everything they had.
When taunted by the owner on his cold streak, the captain coerced the crew into one last expedition, only if he knew what would happen.
With 40-foot waves crashing into the deck, the crew getting thrown overboard, and a broken stabilizer rammed against the side of the boat.
It is a rough ride worth the time.
DramaFantasyRomance
Director:
Clint Eastwood
Release Date:
Fri Oct 22 2010
Star Cast:
Matt Damon, Cécile de France, Bryce Dallas Howard
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$106,956,330
Hereafter is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking drama that explores the mysterious realm of the afterlife. Directed by Clint Eastwood, this poignant film weaves together the lives of three individuals profoundly affected by death and the supernatural.
Matt Damon delivers a remarkable performance as George, a reluctant psychic grappling with the burdens of his extraordinary gift. As the characters' lives intersect, Hereafter skillfully delves into themes of loss, grief, and the longing for answers beyond the mortal realm.
With its beautiful cinematography, heartfelt storytelling, and powerful performances, this movie invites audiences to ponder the profound questions surrounding life, death, and the hereafter.
ActionDramaRomance
Director:
Steve De Jarnatt
Release Date:
Fri May 19 1989
Star Cast:
Anthony Edwards, Mare Winningham, John Agar
Budget:
$3,700,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,145,404
The movie begins as a romantic comedy and then all of a sudden changes its track.
It all takes place in a single day. Harry and Julie meet at the La Brea Tar Pits and fall in love immediately.
They decide to meet up later but the plan doesn’t work when Harry shows up late.
Harry goes to phone Julie and apologizes. Harry gets an anonymous call about a nuclear war approaching and from there the scene changes.
Harry walks back into the diner and one mysterious woman seem to be convinced about what is about to happen.
And they all are in hurry to save themselves. In between the confusion of what is really real, Harry should find the love of his life and also escape an oncoming disaster.
ActionDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Mick Jackson
Release Date:
Fri Apr 25 1997
Star Cast:
Tommy Lee Jones, Anne Heche, Gaby Hoffmann
Budget:
$90,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$122,823,468
An earthquake strikes downtown, Los Angeles. No major causalities are reported except for seven utility workers who are burned to death in a utility drain.
There is steam rising from sewers, metro collision, and all kinds of damage and yes, you’ve figured it out.
There is molten lava on the loose!
The volcano is equipped with everything a typical disaster movie has we have Michael Roark, the director of the city's Office of Emergency Management, managing the disaster, or as most commonly recalled he is our hero.
There is that particular volcano with not much of a role, a lot of problems that come while managing a city, and the need to survive.
There are not so many intricacies woven into it but it is watchable for those who are into the genre.
ActionAdventureBiography
Director:
Ron Howard
Release Date:
Fri Dec 11 2015
Star Cast:
Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson
Budget:
$100,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$94,320,758
A historical adventure story that is retold has enough to keep its audience engaged. Though it did not ride all its waves perfectly this ship did sail some waves smoothly.
Thomas Nickerson, the last survivor of the sinking of the whaleship Essex had set out with his captain for whale hunting. Owen Chase, the first mate of the ship is a skilled whale hunter.
The captain and the first mate often clash and on one such occasion captain doesn't hear Chase's advice and rides a storm.
They make their first kill of a bull sperm whale but luck runs out and they do not get any further success. Following this many unfavorable situations come their way leading to death, despair, and regret.
DramaRomanceSci-Fi
Director:
Val Guest
Star Cast:
Edward Judd, Janet Munro, Leo McKern
Budget:
£200,000 (estimated)
In between underlying images of hope and despair, the movie is one masterpiece that stands out even today.
When the Soviet Union and the united states are simultaneously run nuclear tests, strange meteorological activities start happening in the world.
The journalists discover that earth's nutation has been affected and it is moving towards the sun. a series of nuclear explosions in Siberia is the only option to bring the balance back.
A fine experience of a deadly disaster is indeed watchable.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Roland Emmerich
Release Date:
Fri May 28 2004
Star Cast:
Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Emmy Rossum
Budget:
$125,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$552,639,571
Jack Hall, an American paleo climatologist along with his colleagues discover an ice age coming.
While his claims are rejected by some, a major drop in ocean temperature rises concern.
His predictions come alive without enough time to prepare. Meanwhile, his son and friends are trapped in New York while the city is caught in one of the major storms.
While the world adjusts to a new regime that all survive the journey is a big question.
And on a journey to find his son Jack faces some very unfortunate losses as well.
Widely regarded as one of the finest disaster movies made. It picks momentum gradually and then from there it goes up.
And we could also confirm that it deserves a spot on your watchlist.
ActionAdventureThriller
Director:
Brad Peyton
Release Date:
Fri May 29 2015
Star Cast:
Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario
Budget:
$110,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$474,609,154
Caltech seismologist Dr. Lawrence Hayes discovers that the entire San Andreas Fault is shifting and will soon result in a series of earthquakes destroying major cities.
As he rushes to warn the population, a series of events unleash around. when a 9.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Los Angeles and San Francisco. a fire department rescue pilot, Dwayne Johnson along with his divorced wife is on the way to find their daughter and also outrun this disaster.
Will the duo succeed.? A tsunami also hits San Francisco Bay and will anything be left behind is the question.
The CGI effects look almost real and the effort behind those details is admirable. Be prepared to watch a fine, entertaining disaster movie.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Michael Bay
Release Date:
Wed Jul 1 1998
Star Cast:
Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Ben Affleck
Budget:
$140,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$553,709,788
Armageddon is forever described as an important member of the list of disaster movies. When a massive meteor is about to hit the earth, Deep-sea oil digger Harry and his crew when some unusual requests are met are going to save the earth.
This sci-fi movie is thrilling, and emotional. There is family, friends, action, a spine-chilling disaster, and it is even cheesy but has so much to keep you entertained and engaged and is a must-watch.
ActionDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Mimi Leder
Release Date:
Fri May 8 1998
Star Cast:
Robert Duvall, Téa Leoni, Elijah Wood
Budget:
$75,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$349,464,664
An enormous comet is about to hit the earth, the Messiah is called upon to save the world.
When an amateur astronomer recognizes unusual activity in the sky, he takes the help of a professional astronomer that confirms a meteor targeting earth.
An ELE- Extinction Level Event that can only be reversed by the spacecraft The Messiah.
A joint venture of the United States and Russia to destroy the comet using nuclear bombs is crucial in deciding what might happen to the world.
The initial attempt fails and splits the comet. What will happen when the deadly comet strikes and will anyone be left after that?
The cast, special effects, and the level of detailing all show, how much effort have gone into the making of this spectacular creation.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Roland Emmerich
Release Date:
Fri Nov 13 2009
Star Cast:
John Cusack, Thandiwe Newton, Chiwetel Ejiofor
Budget:
$200,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$791,217,826
Well, if there was a year that most of us did look forward to happening that was 2012.
And why? because the World was supposed to end in December. To make it all better they even made a movie on it.
Robert Emmerich took out one of the most controversial elements from history and added fiction to it.
Was the Mayan Calendar right about the world ending in 2012? It all starts in 2009 when Adrian Helmsley an American Geologist visits his Indian friend Satnam Tsurutani and learns about the heating up of the earth’s core which is going to be catastrophic.
China and the G8 nations start building nine arks that are going to save humanity and its remains.
Will they survive?? In 2012 when the actual events start unveiling struggling science-fiction writer Jackson Curtis accidentally comes across the details regarding the disaster and the arks.
In times of desperate need against all odds, he decides to save his family and who knew his employer as well.
And it’s a rollercoaster ride you’ll want to be on and don’t forget to put seatbelts on, please.
ActionDramaThriller
Director:
Jeong-woo Park
Release Date:
Fri Mar 17 2017
Star Cast:
Kim Nam-gil, Kim Joo-Hyun, Jung Jin-young
Budget:
₩15,500,000,000 (estimated)
Jae-hyeok a middle-aged man and his family have spent all their life working for a nuclear power plant in their family.
Although he wanted to leave his job and wanted to join a fishing vessel everyone discouraged him.
When an unexpected earthquake strikes the town one of the nuclear reactors malfunctions. Attempts to save it go astray.
While all authorities fail, it is up to a simple man to save this country and the potential disasters that follow.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Jon Amiel
Release Date:
Fri Mar 28 2003
Star Cast:
Aaron Eckhart, Hilary Swank, Delroy Lindo
Budget:
$60,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$73,498,611
When scientists discover that the earth's molten core has stopped rotating, they have been entrusted to save the earth from destructive solar radiation.
A secret project is initiated by the government to drill into the core and use nuclear weapons to restart it.
As all perfect plans work, many things go wrong with this one also. Will they be able to save the world and more importantly will they all come back home safely?
A journey to the center of the earth that can mark the end of civilization if not rightly done.
This Sci-fi disaster movie with not many scientific applications has more than enough to keep you entertained.
Remember that it's not a fact but sometimes fiction is what you crave.
AnimationAdventureComedy
Director:
Phil Lord, Christopher Miller
Release Date:
Fri Sep 18 2009
Star Cast:
Anna Faris, Bill Hader, Bruce Campbell
Budget:
$100,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$243,006,126
FLDSMDFR (an acronym for Flint Lockwood Diatonic Super Mutating Dynamic Food Replicator) is the revolution that is going to change the future of Swallow Falls.
Flint Lockwood loves his widowed father and dog when he invents the machine that accidentally ends up on the stratosphere creating food storms that change the timeline of his dying town, he becomes a local celebrity.
But soon the machine goes wrong creating disasters even a spaghetti tornado and it is now up to Flint to save his town and himself as well.
ActionAdventureCrime
Director:
Rob Cohen
Release Date:
Fri Mar 9 2018
Star Cast:
Toby Kebbell, Maggie Grace, Ryan Kwanten
Budget:
$35,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$32,517,273
In 1992 a stage 5 hurricane crushed their father and years later it is revealed that Will and Breeze Rutledge turned out as fine young men with capable jobs.
Will works in maintenance and Breeze is a National Weather Service meteorologist. As another destructive category 5 hurricane named "Tammy" is aiming them, the boys are around.
Meanwhile, a plot to steal from a US Treasury facility is running parallel to the upcoming disaster.
What could possibly happen when seeing the bigger picture makes you forget to concentrate on the minute details.
Will the plan work? An average addition to the listing and can be watched if you don’t come packed with so much expectation.
ActionAdventureThriller
Director:
Roger Donaldson
Release Date:
Fri Feb 7 1997
Star Cast:
Pierce Brosnan, Linda Hamilton, Jamie Renée Smith
Budget:
$116,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$178,127,760
When an annual fest is about to happen, the nearby kind of friendly dormant volcano starts giving out some unusual signs.
When volcanologist Dr. Harry Dalton is assigned to monitor seismic activity near Dante’s peak he finds a lot of signs of some kind of activity but nothing confirms an eruption until when he was about to leave he finds that the towns water supply has been contaminated with sulphur dioxide and then readings spike.
When the town meeting is called there is a massive earthquake and the eruption begins.
Running between family, relationships, convincing the elders, and a run from being melted Dantes peak will fill the caldera for any lover of the genre.
ActionAdventureHorror
Director:
Nicolás López
Release Date:
Thu Jun 12 2014
Star Cast:
Eli Roth, Ariel Levy, Nicolás Martínez
Budget:
$2,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$294,696
‘There's no worry if it's a small quake, and if it's a big one there'll be no escape anyway’.
The movie begins by introducing us to a happy family of four but then an earthquake strikes killing the father and leaving the mother with a choice to choose between her children.
She chooses to save the boy but unfortunately or fortunately the girl also survives but ends up being adopted.
Will they be reunited and what can happen again? A sad devastating story as it goes Aftershock portrayed the finest technological brilliance and would take a place in your favorites list.
This Chinese movie definitely made it to the hearts of a lot of people.
ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Paul W.S. Anderson
Release Date:
Fri Feb 21 2014
Star Cast:
Kit Harington, Emily Browning, Kiefer Sutherland
Budget:
$100,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$117,831,631
Great costumes, brilliant effects, and great camera work. The gladiator imagery was widely criticized and also for its lack of understanding.
But if you’re into 3D and perfection motion stories it would be an enriching experience.
While a tribe of Celtic horsemen is brutally wiped out, a boy named Milo is left behind to build their legacy.
When one of the greatest disasters of mankind is yet to be unveiled Milo is on his way to hunt down the general who murdered his family.
In a war between Milo and the world fire rises from their swords and what follows rest is history
ActionDramaHistory
Director:
Mario Van Peebles
Release Date:
Fri Oct 14 2016
Star Cast:
Nicolas Cage, Tom Sizemore, Thomas Jane
Budget:
$40,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,158,568
While the true story behind Indianapolis is widely regarded as scary, brave, and compelling the movie received considerable backlash for its lack of good execution.
When the heavy cruiser carrying parts of an atom bomb to be used in Hiroshima while returning is sunk by the Japanese navy.
Most of the crew is left on the open sea except for the ones in the submarine.
By day 5 when they were rescued only a few survived as the rest of them had already been prey to the deadly dangers of the sea.
The trauma most of them would carry forever of sharks, death, and survival. Even though there was enough evidence that the captain was not wrong he was used as the scapegoat by the government by the end of which he committed suicide.
There are also subplots running among two crewmates and love interests which are gradually brought forth as subject interests during the shark attacks.
It is not a bad movie but there are better movies available in the genre.
ActionSci-FiThriller
Director:
Dean Devlin
Release Date:
Fri Oct 20 2017
Star Cast:
Gerard Butler, Jim Sturgess, Abbie Cornish
Budget:
$120,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$221,900,160
When Dutch Boys a group of climate-controlling satellites run by an international collision is corrupted and is about to cause a global cataclysm known as Geostorm there is very little that can be done by the good people but what if the bad guys are twice stronger?
There is fire, ice and all is now up to the Dutch Boys architect Jake to save the world.
And as a fun spoiler, there is a cute little dog who survives all this.
It is science fiction and definitely not science but you can watch it once, not really bad.