When the COVID-19 pandemic crippled the world's social, political and financial systems, almost all of us were forced into believing that the planet is actually coming to an end. Therefore, it is not surprising that several films have been released over the years to bring many such grave problems to light.
These end-of-the-world feature films are often so impactful that they drive the viewers to create their to-do lists. Not only do these movies make them wonder what they'd do during an extinction event but they also make them realize the significance of time, family, and, ultimately, life.
Therefore, motion pictures that try to project the end of the world on the big screen have become a brand in their own right. Needless to say, they amass a dedicated following the world over courtesy of the fact that they integrate the adrenaline rush of disaster movies with the creeping panic of horror movies.
That said, there is no denying that these world-ending movies are quite possibly the biggest reflection of civilization's biggest apprehensions. Often, to come out of our personal disasters, we resort to watching these movies that help us relate to our circumstances in numerous ways.
Therefore, this story is our earnest attempt to bring to light some of the best films that revolve around numerous end-of-the-world scenarios.
ComedyWar
Director:
Stanley Kubrick
Release Date:
Wed Jan 29 1964
Star Cast:
Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden
Budget:
$1,800,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$9,528,665
Stanley Kubrick's masterpiece unfolds at the precipice of nuclear war, spotlighting the efforts of government agencies scrambling to prevent catastrophe. The film is remarkable for its sharp political satire, with each character, line, and agency embodying clever commentary on Cold War-era tensions.
The character of Dr. Strangelove represents the era's scientific community—a group driven by an obsession to perfect the bomb, ultimately bringing the world to the edge of destruction. Kubrick’s genius lies in creating a film that appeals to anyone intrigued by global affairs and history.
It's no surprise that 'Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb' earned Academy Award nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Actor (Peter Sellers).
Recommended:
AnimationAdventureFamily
Director:
Andrew Stanton
Release Date:
Fri Jun 27 2008
Star Cast:
Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin
Budget:
$180,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$521,311,890
Pixar's ninth animated feature film, 'Wall-E', stands out as an ambitious and innovative project that took creative risks to deliver a lasting impact upon its release. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the film's compelling narrative relies less on dialogue and more on evocative lighting, expressive performances, atmospheric music, and distinctive cinematography to convey its message.
The movie follows the journey of a small waste-collecting robot on an abandoned, garbage-strewn Earth. His routine existence is transformed when he encounters another robot, Eve, and falls in love. Together, they embark on an adventure that holds the promise of changing humanity's fate forever.
With breathtaking animation throughout, 'Wall-E' is visually captivating. For a film centered on themes of planetary devastation and humanity's possible demise or exodus, the stunning visuals are essential to its appeal.
The movie's vivid color palette and striking settings are a constant visual treat. Complementing these is a remarkable musical score and a series of imaginative sequences 13 most notably the zero-gravity dance and the exhilarating voyage through space 13 that make 'Wall-E' truly memorable.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
George Miller
Release Date:
Fri May 15 2015
Star Cast:
Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult
Budget:
$150,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$380,418,444
George Miller's 'Mad Max: Fury Road' elevates the dystopian future with breathtaking action and bold visual storytelling. Set in a relentless desert wasteland, survivors risk it all in thrilling clashes for water and gasoline, racing across the sands in hulking custom vehicles. The film stands out as the finest entry in the Mad Max franchise and earns its reputation as one of the greatest end-of-the-world movies ever made.
Charlize Theron and Tom Hardy deliver riveting performances that anchor the chaos, while the film captivates with its spectacular, high-adrenaline set pieces. Although the narrative is straightforward, Miller's visionary direction transforms this film into a milestone in recent action cinema.
Explosive sequences and relentless energy keep viewers fully engaged from start to finish. What truly defines 'Fury Road' is its fearless commitment to pure adrenaline-fueled storytelling, unafraid to forge its own unforgettable path.
Recommended:
DramaHorrorSci-Fi
Director:
Don Siegel
Release Date:
Sun Feb 5 1956
Star Cast:
Kevin McCarthy, Dana Wynter, Larry Gates
Budget:
$417,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,861
In Don Siegel's legendary film, "Invasion of the Body Snatchers," an alien invasion slowly unfolds in the quiet, fictional town of Santa Mira, California. As one of the finest examples of classic science fiction from its era, this movie stands out for its suspense and originality.
The enduring appeal of its screenplay lies in its ability to create lasting paranoia and fear in viewers. Kevin McCarthy delivers a standout performance, while the film’s simple yet highly effective execution heightens tension and atmosphere throughout.
Given its impact, it is no surprise that this iconic movie has been remade several times and remains a favorite for dedicated fans even decades later.
HorrorThriller
Director:
George A. Romero
Release Date:
Fri Oct 4 1968
Star Cast:
Duane Jones, Judith O'Dea, Karl Hardman
Budget:
$114,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$236,452
George A. Romero’s groundbreaking film first introduced audiences to the relentless presence of the living dead, sparking a cultural fascination with zombies that persists today. While the genre has since blossomed with imitators, 'Night of the Living Dead' remains one of the most authentic, chilling depictions ever brought to the screen.
The story follows a group of survivors taking refuge in a farmhouse, as they gradually come to recognize and rely on Ben (Duane Jones), an African American man whose intelligence and calm leadership set him apart in a crisis.
Romero’s choice to cast an African American as the protagonist and strategic thinker was revolutionary, especially for a film released more than four decades ago, challenging genre norms and social expectations of that time.
Thanks to sharp writing and haunting visuals, this classic endures as a standout, proving that powerful storytelling can outlast trends and the passage of time.
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
Alfred Hitchcock, renowned for his pioneering contributions to cinema, has become synonymous with innovative filmmaking. In 'The Birds,' Hitchcock invites audiences to follow Melanie, a wealthy socialite, as she travels to Bodega Bay to play a practical joke on Mitch, an attorney she is interested in.
However, the film takes a terrifying turn when flocks of birds inexplicably begin to attack the residents, threatening the very fabric of civilization. Hitchcock’s masterful use of an eerie, atmospheric score and unsettling bird noises sets this film apart as a chilling depiction of an apocalyptic threat.
Employing both mechanical and real birds in the production, Hitchcock intensifies the sense of looming disaster, particularly as the film reaches its suspenseful climax. This approach heightens the mounting dread and uncertainty experienced by viewers.
The movie’s final haunting scene, starkly different from the once-idyllic setting, serves as a powerful reminder of life’s unpredictability and the ever-present risk of disaster—a message Hitchcock conveys with remarkable skill.
ActionDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Alfonso Cuarón
Release Date:
Fri Jan 5 2007
Star Cast:
Julianne Moore, Clive Owen, Chiwetel Ejiofor
Budget:
$76,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$70,595,464
Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, 'Children of Men' features powerful performances from Julianne Moore and Clive Owen. The film presents a gripping vision of civilization's collapse, where a global pandemic has left humanity infertile and teetering on the brink of extinction.
Amid widespread despair, hope emerges when a woman is discovered to be pregnant—an unprecedented event. A disillusioned former activist must risk everything to protect her and ensure her safe passage to scientists searching for a cure.
The film stands out for its remarkable cinematography and creative storytelling. By blending intense drama, a haunting musical score, and stellar acting, 'Children of Men' delivers a heart-pounding and thought-provoking glimpse into a possible future.
AnimationActionAdventure
Director:
Michael Rianda, Jeff Rowe
Release Date:
Fri Apr 30 2021
Star Cast:
Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph
Budget:
$38,000,000 (estimated)
‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’ captivates audiences with its unique visual style, masterfully directed by Michael Rianda. By seamlessly blending 2D and 3D animation, the film creates a visually dazzling and contemporary world.
This Netflix original turns the idea of a robot apocalypse into a wildly entertaining adventure. It follows a quirky, dysfunctional family forced to band together and fight back against machines during a cross-country road trip to save humanity.
The film earned widespread critical acclaim for its inventive animation, strong voice performances, memorable humor, heartfelt themes, and meaningful LGBT representation.
DramaHorrorSci-Fi
Director:
John Krasinski
Release Date:
Fri Apr 6 2018
Star Cast:
Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Millicent Simmonds
Budget:
$17,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$340,952,971
John Krasinski and Emily Blunt deliver one of the most memorable horror films of the 21st century with "A Quiet Place." Set in a world overrun by deadly, noise-sensitive creatures, the movie centers on a resilient family desperately trying to stay alive amid relentless danger.
To survive, they communicate solely through sign language—an inventive and suspenseful dynamic that hooks the audience from the start and never loosens its grip until the very end.
Krasinski's masterful direction, paired with Emily Blunt's compelling performance, creates a tense and immersive atmosphere. Relying on a chilling setting and strong character work, "A Quiet Place" resonates powerfully with viewers seeking an edge-of-the-seat experience.
ActionSci-Fi
Director:
James Cameron
Release Date:
Wed Jul 3 1991
Star Cast:
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong
Budget:
$102,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$520,881,154
In the early '90s, director James Cameron teamed up with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Linda Hamilton to deliver what is widely regarded as one of the greatest sequels in Hollywood history. "Terminator 2: Judgment Day" follows a relentless Terminator sent to eliminate Sarah Connor's son, John, who holds the key to humanity's future.
The film takes an intriguing twist as another cyborg—once Sarah's enemy—returns to safeguard John and, by extension, the entire human race. With sleek cinematography and a dark, bold tone reminiscent of its predecessor, the movie powerfully hints at an impending apocalypse unless the titular hero intervenes.
Though the movie's generous budget means the set pieces are more polished than terrifying, the imaginative visuals and immersive atmosphere are as impressive as technology allows. Cameron's expert direction and the chilling score help cement this landmark film's place among the best apocalyptic movies ever made.
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
Written and directed by Jeff Nichols, 'Take Shelter' features outstanding performances by Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain. The film delves into the life of a man tormented by haunting apocalyptic visions that blur the lines between premonition and paranoia.
As a devoted husband and father, Curtis LaForche, portrayed masterfully by Shannon, faces a harrowing dilemma: should he protect his family from himself or from an impending storm threatening to end humanity? His emotional journey is both powerful and thought-provoking.
The compelling character study asks viewers to consider what desperate measures they might take to save loved ones if faced with an approaching apocalypse. 'Take Shelter' stands out as a cinematic gem, thriving on its stellar acting, incisive dialogue, captivating visuals, and an intense, nerve-racking atmosphere.
ActionDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Bong Joon Ho
Release Date:
Fri Jul 11 2014
Star Cast:
Chris Evans, Jamie Bell, Tilda Swinton
Budget:
$39,200,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$86,758,912
Directed by Bong Joon-ho, 'Snowpiercer' is a gripping post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller inspired by the French graphic novel Le Transperceneige by Jacques Lob. The film stands out for its intense action and outstanding performances, especially by Chris Evans and Tilda Swinton.
Set in a world frozen by a climate catastrophe, the last survivors of humanity live aboard a perpetually moving train, separated by a rigid class system. As tensions mount, the film explores the gripping journey toward rebellion and survival.
If you haven't experienced this unique apocalyptic tale, prepare to witness Bong Joon-ho’s visionary take on humanity’s fight at the edge of extinction.
ComedyHorror
Director:
Edgar Wright
Release Date:
Fri Sep 24 2004
Star Cast:
Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Kate Ashfield
Budget:
£4,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$38,649,825
Edgar Wright's 'Shaun of the Dead' is widely regarded as one of the most inventive and hilarious horror comedies ever to hit the big screen. The film is often credited with launching the successful careers of both Wright and Simon Pegg, thanks to its sharp wit and unique style.
The story unfolds at the onset of a zombie apocalypse, placing Shaun in the unlikely position of having to fend off an entire horde of the undead. Over the years, this clever blend of humor and horror has earned the movie a devoted cult following.
AdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Franklin J. Schaffner
Release Date:
Wed Apr 3 1968
Star Cast:
Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowall, Kim Hunter
Budget:
$5,800,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$32,599,488
Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, "Planet of the Apes" is a landmark science fiction drama that explores humanity's dramatic transformation after an astronaut crew crash-lands on a distant, unfamiliar planet.
Initially, the planet seems barren, but the surviving astronauts soon discover a society ruled by intelligent apes. These apes possess advanced speech and reasoning, reversing familiar roles as they dominate mute, animal-skin-clad humans.
This iconic film delivers profound commentary on the human condition by depicting mankind as a vulnerable and oppressed species, constantly under threat in a world where the tables have turned.
The screenplay is enriched with gripping action, moral dilemmas, suspenseful exploration, and enduring entertainment.
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
Directed by Terry Gilliam, 12 Monkeys imagines a world devastated by a lethal virus, forcing the few survivors to live underground. Bruce Willis stars as James Cole, who embarks on a mission to travel back in time and track down the epidemic's origins, hoping to change humanity's fate.
While Willis delivers a strong performance, Brad Pitt stands out as Jeffrey Goines, an eccentric and troubled conspiracy theorist whose connection to the pandemic may hold the key to saving the future.
The narrative is sharp, coherent, and utterly absorbing, rewarding viewers with new layers on repeat viewings. The cast excels in their roles, and Gilliam's unique treatment of the end-of-the-world theme elevates the film to unforgettable heights.
With a smart, intricately woven screenplay that reflects a believable vision of the future, 12 Monkeys remains a thought-provoking and sophisticated entry in the sci-fi genre.
HorrorThriller
Director:
George A. Romero
Star Cast:
David Emge, Ken Foree, Scott H. Reiniger
Budget:
$650,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$159,822
Written and directed by George A. Romero, 'Dawn of the Dead' stands as one of the most influential horror films ever made. Few premises are as haunting—and oddly captivating—as a handful of survivors barricaded in a shopping mall after civilization collapses.
This renowned zombie classic masterfully explores the idea of humanity's downfall, featuring unforgettable zombie effects that quickly draw viewers into its suspenseful atmosphere. Each viewing uncovers new layers within the film's gripping narrative.
Romero also weaves thoughtful commentary on feminism, civilization, and rampant consumerism into the storyline. These deeper themes enrich the film without overshadowing its chilling vision of an impending apocalypse.
HorrorSci-Fi
Director:
Philip Kaufman
Release Date:
Fri Dec 22 1978
Star Cast:
Donald Sutherland, Brooke Adams, Jeff Goldblum
Budget:
$3,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$24,946,715
'Invasion of the Body Snatchers' is Philip Kaufman's masterful and chilling remake of the 1956 sci-fi classic. The film follows the unsettling arrival of mysterious seeds from space, which blossom into pods that quietly begin infiltrating San Francisco.
As these pods replicate the city's residents one by one, paranoia and dread spread rapidly. Kaufman and his talented cast deliver a gripping narrative that suggests the first ominous sign of the apocalypse might just be your loved one acting disturbingly unlike themselves.
ActionComedyHorror
Director:
Ruben Fleischer
Release Date:
Fri Oct 2 2009
Star Cast:
Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, Woody Harrelson
Budget:
$23,600,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$102,392,080
Directed by Ruben Fleischer, 'Zombieland' follows Columbus, a cautious college student, as he joins three quirky strangers on a wild journey through the zombie-ravaged southwestern United States in search of sanctuary.
What truly sets this film apart is its heartfelt approach; the characters are vibrant, relatable, and their interactions feel genuinely authentic, drawing viewers deeper into the drama.
This blend of relentless zombie action and a touching exploration of human connection makes 'Zombieland' both entertaining and emotionally resonant, ensuring audiences become thoroughly invested in the story and its cast.
DramaFantasyMystery
Director:
Peter Weir
Star Cast:
Richard Chamberlain, Olivia Hamnett, David Gulpilil
Budget:
A$810,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,382
Directed and written by Peter Weir, "The Last Wave" features Richard Chamberlain as an Australian lawyer named David Burton, who is tasked with defending a local Aboriginal clan accused of murder. The film skillfully blends legal drama with supernatural intrigue.
As Burton delves deeper into the case, he uncovers the tribe's ancient prophecies and is plagued by haunting visions of catastrophic floods. These apocalyptic dreams convince him that the foreboding "last wave" could spell the devastation of civilization as he knows it.
Drawn into a mysterious web where reality blurs with illusion, David is forced to question all he understands. With its unique combination of murder mystery and indigenous mythology, "The Last Wave" stands out as a gripping and underrated entry on this list.
DramaHorrorSci-Fi
Director:
Danny Boyle
Release Date:
Fri Jun 27 2003
Star Cast:
Cillian Murphy, Naomie Harris, Christopher Eccleston
Budget:
$8,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$84,661,434
Directed by Danny Boyle, "28 Days Later" plunges viewers into a Britain devastated by a mysterious, incurable virus, following a group of survivors navigating the harrowing aftermath. The film vividly captures the sheer chaos and desperation that unfold in the wake of the outbreak.
The screenplay delves deep into the primal survival instincts of humanity, offering moments of psychological terror that resonate strongly—even beyond conventional horror tropes. Viewers are left pondering what real fear truly means.
"28 Days Later" stands out for its relentless pacing, gripping action sequences, and chillingly atmospheric world. The haunting depiction of deserted cityscapes, masterfully shot, lends an added shock factor, making the apocalypse feel disturbingly real and unforgettable.
HorrorMysteryThriller
Director:
Drew Goddard
Release Date:
Fri Apr 13 2012
Star Cast:
Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison
Budget:
$30,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$70,038,838
Helmed by Drew Goddard, 'The Cabin in the Woods' tracks the journey of five friends who unknowingly summon a family of murderous zombies in the woods. Unwillingly, they become involved in a ritual of human sacrifice that is carried to please the cruel belowground deities; something that threatens to not only wipe out their existence but also that of the planet.
The cabin, which is the battleground for these victims, is controlled by an underground facility that unleashes different monsters to slay them. 'The Cabin in the Woods' is an unusual motion picture that cannot specifically claim to belong to one genre.
In fact, it combines the clichés of several horror movies and strives to produce something entertaining and original. That said, the final revelation in this movie is both bizarre and awesome at the same time.
DramaHorrorSci-Fi
Director:
John Krasinski
Release Date:
Fri May 28 2021
Star Cast:
Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds, Cillian Murphy
Box Office (Worldwide):
$297,372,261
This critically and commercially successful post-apocalyptic horror film does complete justice to the first instalment of the franchise. We catch Regan and her family trying to utilize the fact that the predators can perhaps be deterred using high-frequency audio.
Needless to say, in a world where humans are nowhere to be found, this particular discovery and their brainpower are the only true weapons that the family is in possession of.
While Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds, and Noah Jupe continue to play their respective roles from the first movie, actors like Cillian Murphy and Djimon Hounsou are new and worthy additions to the cast. 'A Quiet Place II' set the box office on fire at a time when nobody expected it to.
It recorded one of the biggest opening weekends during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.
ActionDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Rupert Wyatt
Release Date:
Fri Aug 5 2011
Star Cast:
James Franco, Andy Serkis, Freida Pinto
Budget:
$93,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$481,800,873
Directed by Rupert Wyatt and starring James Franco in the lead, 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes' tells the story of Caesar, a chimpanzee, who has stayed with Will Rodman ever since he was born.
However, a new drug helps him think and react like humans, and when Caesar finds himself subjected to mistreatment, he decides to rebel against humanity. The CGI apes in this motion picture work really well and the action sequences and set pieces are all too good.
Furthermore, the characters are mostly engaging, even though the ape roles are far more interesting than the human characters. It is not surprising then that Caesar is the most spellbinding character in this film that strives to demonstrate a threat to the human species.
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
This Steven Soderbergh directorial venture became one of the most-watched films online during the Coronavirus pandemic. The story shows how healthcare specialists, government officials, and the common man find themselves amid a pandemic as the Centers for Disease Control fights to thwart its unprecedented spread.
The feature film, which focuses on the symbol of human strength, desire, and endurance, thrives on the performances of its outstanding cast members. While there have been a ton of doomsday movies in the market, this one here really "predicted" a virus that jolted humanity and brought it to its knees just years after its release.
DramaMysterySci-Fi
Director:
Grant Sputore
Release Date:
Fri Jun 7 2019
Star Cast:
Luke Hawker, Rose Byrne, Maddie Lenton
Box Office (Worldwide):
$643,593
In filmmaker Grant Sputore's I Am Mother, we are introduced to a teenage girl and a robot. The latter is not only doing its best to raise the girl but is also trying to repopulate the earth since society seems to have perished once and for all.
However, their rather unique bond is put to the test when they chance upon a stranger who comes with alarming news. While this science fiction drama may not exactly be brilliant, it certainly is thought-provoking.
A cautionary story about advanced Artificial Intelligence, it touches upon complicated ideas and does its best to keep its targetted audience hooked to their seats. It does come with its obvious shortcomings, but it is tough to negate the fact that it gives us a lot to ponder.
Even though it feels like this science fiction tale has been told on a controlled budget, it has enough suspense to give you enough room to appreciate its effort to amuse.
That being said, there is a possibility that some of you may feel that the story progresses rather slowly in this one. However, we feel that it could be a deliberate decision to make you feel and see things from the daughter's perspective.
HorrorSci-Fi
Director:
Juan Carlos Fresnadillo
Release Date:
Fri May 11 2007
Star Cast:
Jeremy Renner, Rose Byrne, Robert Carlyle
Budget:
$15,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$65,048,678
Director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo's '28 Weeks Later' is a well-paced and atmospheric drama with more than enough moments present to please fans who wish to watch movies that aim to depict a threat to humanity.
Needless to say, it is a surprisingly good British horror film that not only adds to its predecessor but also leaves the door open for another sequel, courtesy of its well-timed ending.
The film is a series of scary set pieces, each of which is outlandish and dramatic in essence.
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
Directors Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg bring an end-of-the-world story to life with this film delightfully. The screenplay shows how during James Franco's house party, which is being attended by celebrities, all hell breaks loose when a series of ravaging events begin to take place.
The film has a thing or two to say about certain issues, each of which is snappily placed in the screenplay so as to not come across as preachy. That said, 'This Is the End' is an adventurous flick that manages to be exceptionally funny.
Props to the incredible star cast for keeping the comedy going even in the middle of unexpected occurrences.
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
Director Steven Spielberg's 'War of the Worlds' stars Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning in the lead and talks about an alien invasion that threatens to jeopardize the future of humanity.
An alien species with higher intelligence have occupied the earth and plan to terraform it for their own survival. To do so, they need human blood and tissue to grow their vegetation.
This unfortunate nightmare is portrayed through the eyes of one American family fighting for survival. Spielberg directs his actors spectacularly in this motion picture and ascertains that everyone gives a remarkable performance.
What's vital to note here is that he does not use special effects to impress the viewers, but only as a tool to tell his story. Also, the inimitable Cruise anchors the feature film with his portrayal of a blue-collar America who wants nothing more than for his family to survive.
Sci-FiThriller
Director:
Danny Boyle
Release Date:
Fri Jul 27 2007
Star Cast:
Cillian Murphy, Rose Byrne, Chris Evans
Budget:
£26,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$34,806,812
Danny Boyle's 'Sunshine' tracks the journey of a team of astronauts that is assigned the enormous duty of saving the sun. Things, however, take a terrible turn when an unseen accident occurs and the lives of the crew members, and those living on planet Earth, are endangered.
This feature film thrives on its stunning visuals and cinematography. Tagging along is the breathtaking usage of light, shadow, and monochrome colors that capture its spirit in the most outstanding ways possible.
DramaSci-FiThriller
Director:
Zak Hilditch
Release Date:
Thu Jul 31 2014
Star Cast:
Jessica De Gouw, Nathan Phillips, David Field
Budget:
A$2,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$360,234
Written and directed by Zak Hilditch, 'These Final Hours' makes its intentions of wanting to grab the attention of viewers clear right from its opening sequence. It shows planet Earth approaching a disaster that will be its absolute end.
However, it is not your average apocalypse drama, but one that stresses the importance of relationships among other things that matter the most. The brilliant and compelling entertainment that this feature film provides is aided by the decent performances of its cast members.
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
Helmed for the screen by Matt Reeves, 'Cloverfield' is a found-footage monster project that stars actors such as Michael Stahl-David, Mike Vogel, Odette Yustman, Lizzy Caplan, Jessica Lucas, and T.
J. Miller in pivotal roles. In the story, we are introduced to Rob, Hud, Lily, and Marlena, who come together to form a group after a gigantic monster goes all out in destroying New York City.
Together, they try to rescue one of their friends, Beth, who is trapped in her apartment amid the chaos with no possible room for escape. This motion picture opened to positive reviews and was appreciated for its tight execution and narrative style.
DramaThriller
Director:
John Hillcoat
Release Date:
Wed Nov 25 2009
Star Cast:
Viggo Mortensen, Charlize Theron, Kodi Smit-McPhee
Budget:
$25,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$27,639,579
Based on the book by Cormac McCarthy, this John Hillcoat directorial venture follows a man and his son who are striving to prevail in a post-apocalyptic world. They do their best to evade brutal scavengers and other evil forces as they make their way down "the road"; trying to move towards the coast where the situation might be warmer and safer.
Starring Viggo Mortensen and Charlize Theron in significant roles, 'The Road' revolves more around the destruction of both civility and civilization. Furthermore, the action sequences in this end-of-the-world motion picture are very well handled and are packed with enough anxiety to keep the viewers on the edge of their seats.
ActionHorror
Director:
Zack Snyder
Release Date:
Fri Mar 19 2004
Star Cast:
Sarah Polley, Ving Rhames, Mekhi Phifer
Budget:
$26,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$102,278,712
Popular director Zack Snyder brings a remake of one of the finest horror movies of all time. The story shows how survivors of an epidemic are infected and are turned into flesh-eating zombies who threaten to destroy the human species.
Even though this one is a remake of a classic film, it carries a different attitude. The fact that this was produced more than two decades after the original also helped it take full advantage of the advancement in technology.
Needless to say, 'Dawn of the Dead' is a solid feature film that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
ActionDramaHorror
Director:
Francis Lawrence
Release Date:
Fri Dec 14 2007
Star Cast:
Will Smith, Alice Braga, Charlie Tahan
Budget:
$150,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$585,410,052
Francis Lawrence's 'I Am Legend' chronicles the journey of a scientist named Robert Neville, who is the last human survivor of a plague in New York. The man wants nothing more than to find a way to reverse the effects of the man-made virus by using his own immune blood.
Loosely based on Richard Matheson's 1954 novel of the same name, the film opened to positive reviews with praises being directed towards Will Smith's performance.
DramaRomanceSci-Fi
Director:
Stanley Kramer
Release Date:
Thu Dec 17 1959
Star Cast:
Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, Fred Astaire
Budget:
$2,900,000 (estimated)
Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, and Fred Astaire headline this feature film, which takes place after a nuclear war has wiped out all but a few. However, when it becomes apparent that the radiation clouds threaten to finish off the rest, the survivors have to adapt to the tragic news in their own specific ways.
Director Stanley Kramer's effort is a grim apocalyptic film that attempts to cast light on the worldwide nuclear contamination as a result of an all-out nuclear war. This motion picture is a compelling reminder of how serious and deadly a nuclear war could turn out to be for humanity.
AdventureComedyDrama
Director:
Kevin Smith
Release Date:
Fri Nov 12 1999
Star Cast:
Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Linda Fiorentino
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$31,429,330
Written and directed by Kevin Smith, 'Dogma' traces the journey of an abortion clinic worker with special roots who is called upon to save the existence of humanity. As different as the storyline sounds, it is as good and is backed by sharp comedy and a splendid star cast that delivers strong performances.
Often considered to be a motion picture that talks about the importance of faith and religion, 'Dogma' is a unique film and certainly one of Smith's finest.
HorrorSci-FiThriller
Director:
Frank Darabont
Release Date:
Wed Nov 21 2007
Star Cast:
Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden, Laurie Holden
Budget:
$18,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$57,470,220
Helmed by Frank Darabont, the screenplay of 'The Mist' shows a monstrous storm unleashing a species of ferocious and bloodthirsty beasts on a small town, where several residents hole up in a supermarket and fight for their lives and, potentially, for civilization.
This feature film evaluates fear and its repercussions quite effectively and couples the horror outside in the fog with the horrors inside the market as paranoia, impracticality, and religion all come into conflict with the pragmatic issues of survival.
The performances in this movie are good, but it is the cinematography, editing, and direction that come together wonderfully to make it a must-watch film.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Luc Besson
Release Date:
Fri May 9 1997
Star Cast:
Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman
Budget:
$93,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$263,920,180
Helmed by Luc Besson, 'The Fifth Element' stars Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, and Gary Oldman in prominent roles. It is primarily set in the 23rd century. The motion picture's central plot revolves around the survival of planet Earth; the responsibility of which is bestowed upon Korben Dallas (Bruce Willis), a taxicab driver and former special forces major, after a young woman named Leeloo (Mills Jovovich) drops into his cab.
Thriving on its beautiful setting and fantastic visual effects, this feature film has a lot of ingredients that make it a fabulous watch of the science fiction genre. Those who have a knack for sci-fi films or are willing to watch something truly unconventional would like this movie even more.
While Besson's direction is excellent here, Eric Serra's atmospheric background score, and the fun and charismatic characters, help in making this venture come across as artistic, to say the least.
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
Directed by Marc Forster, 'World War Z' traces the thrilling journey of a former United Nations employee, Gerry Lane (Brad Pitt), who travels the world in a race against time to stop a zombie pandemic that is overthrowing armies and governments and threatening to destroy humanity.
Gerry is one of the finest investigators in the United Nations, and in return for the safety of his family, he is asked to accompany Dr. Fassbach, who has a theory that the origin of the disease is a virus and that finding its origin will enable them to make an antidote.
This quick-paced, edge-of-your-seat thrill ride shows the civilization on the brink of extinction.
AdventureComedySci-Fi
Director:
Garth Jennings
Release Date:
Fri Apr 29 2005
Star Cast:
Martin Freeman, Yasiin Bey, Sam Rockwell
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$104,478,416
This Garth Jennings directorial venture shows Arthur's friend, an alien, notifying him of Earth's impending destruction and whisking him away in a spaceship. Even though Arthur deals with his distress, he also has a great adventure and that is what forms the base of the film's story. 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' thrives on its sardonic sense of humor and an underlying sense of the absurd and unpredictable; elements that it carries from its source material.
Visually, the feature film looks good as the creatures and special effects grasp the tone of the vision pretty well. That said, the screenplay throws in a bit of a surprise by injecting quirky and off-beat humor to please its viewers.
Also, the performances in this flick are neat and leave little to no margin for error.
DramaFantasyHorror
Director:
John Carpenter
Release Date:
Fri Feb 3 1995
Star Cast:
Sam Neill, Jürgen Prochnow, Julie Carmen
Budget:
$8,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$8,924,549
Director John Carpenter's 'In the Mouth of Madness' shows an insurance investigator discovering that the influence an author's stories have on his fans is more than just inspirational. One of the most ambitious slasher horror feature films ever produced, the film tries to bring in the true nature of reality; a reality that could mean doomsday for the protagonists in the screenplay.
Even though this motion picture can and does have a polarizing stand among cinema enthusiasts, Carpenter can take pride in his smart piece of mind-bending, nightmarish insanity. Overall, one feels that the story tries to convey that nothing is real and, therefore, there is nothing solid to hold on to in the real world.
AdventureComedyDrama
Director:
Lorene Scafaria
Release Date:
Fri Jun 22 2012
Star Cast:
Steve Carell, Keira Knightley, Melanie Lynskey
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$11,681,781
Written and directed by Lorene Scafaria, 'Seeking a Friend for the End of the World' stars Steve Carrell and Keira Knightley in the lead. The film talks about an asteroid heading towards Earth, and how Dodge (Steve Carrell) and Penny (Keira Knightly) try to reunite the former with his lost love before it hits and destroys the planet for good.
In addition, the story traces how during their journey, the duo also meets others who are dealing with the impending doom in their own unique ways. This motion picture does not necessarily portray a grim, realistic look at life; primarily because a good deal of humor is injected into its screenplay.
To add to the proceedings, Carrell plays the role of a down-and-out loser to near perfection.
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
Trust Adam McKay to make an astounding and thought-provoking apocalyptic full-length feature and inject it with the right dose of political commentary and black comedy to make a solid impression.
Headlined by the dynamic duo of Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, the story follows two low-level astronomers who realize that a comet approaching planet Earth threatens to destroy it once and for all.
While the film does provide some inevitable cringe-laughs given its plot, it does a great job at showcasing how the media largely functions today and how the world's collective IQ has hit its lowest.
AdventureComedyFamily
Director:
Joe Johnston
Release Date:
Fri Dec 15 1995
Star Cast:
Robin Williams, Kirsten Dunst, Bonnie Hunt
Budget:
$65,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$262,821,940
The end of the world has never seemed as much fun as this Joe Johnston directorial venture. The film tracks the journey of two kids who find and start to play a mysterious board game.
Soon after, they release a man who has been trapped in it for decades. But, the catch here is that they also unleash a host of other threats that can only be stopped by completing the game. 'Jumanji' is a great family feature film that is packed with some of the finest graphic materials of its time.
Even though the plot is a lot of fun and appeals to both kids and adults alike, it can still turn out to be a bit terrifying for young children.
This is because the screenplay shows hundreds of animals and other forces being unleashed as the game advances. Add to that the fact that Robin Williams plays the role of Alan Parrish perfectly and is, therefore, a reason strong enough for one to sit through this cult film.
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
Written and directed by Steve De Jarnatt, 'Miracle Mile' features Anthony Edwards and Mare Winningham as Harry and Julie, who endure a missed connection right before the breakout of a nuclear war between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
The screenplay shows how Harry struggles to find Julie before the world meets its devastating end. An underrated motion picture, it shows an apocalyptic vision of an entire city with visuals so potent that it can stir the viewers from within and make them fear for the world and their very lives.
Indeed, the premise of this movie has a wonderfully urgent tone to it.
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
Written and directed by Roland Emmerich, this motion picture encompasses the term 'climate crisis' and attempts to showcase extreme weather conditions that break out across the country, and possibly even beyond.
The plot shows how a group of survivors gather in the New York Public Library and begin to work toward their rescue. This disaster movie starts brilliantly and comprises an incredible idea for a story and impressive special effects.
The performances in 'The Day After Tomorrow' are decent and the "approach" it furthers is open to speculation by one and all.
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
This Michael Bay directorial venture was the highest-grossing film of 1998. It introduces us to NASA astronauts who discover that a large asteroid is about hit Earth in the next eighteen days.
With humanity on the brink of extinction, their hopes of survival are pinned on an oil driller named Harry Stamper. While the motion picture serves its purpose and goes on to provide unlimited entertainment to its viewers, several prominent critics believe that it is an assault on our common sense.
DramaSci-Fi
Director:
Lars von Trier
Release Date:
Thu May 26 2011
Star Cast:
Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Kiefer Sutherland
Budget:
$7,400,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$17,498,887
Directed by Lars von Trier, 'Melancholia' tracks the lives of sisters Justine and Claire who get involved when they uncover that Earth is about to collide with an enormous planet called Melancholia; an event that threatens to destroy mankind for good.
The motion picture features some solid acting and great filmmaking from a person who carefully identifies with and understands human interaction. It is one of the most thought-provoking and heart-touching movies to make it to our story today.
DramaMysterySci-Fi
Director:
Geoff Murphy
Release Date:
Fri Oct 18 1985
Star Cast:
Bruno Lawrence, Alison Routledge, Pete Smith
Budget:
$1,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,123,562
This Geoff Murphy directorial venture tracks the journey of Zac, a scientist, who wakes up from a failed suicide attempt to find himself alone on planet Earth. Eventually, he finds two more survivors and once they begin to trust each other, they set out to find out why they are the only ones left on the planet and what their true purpose is.
The life and death idea in this feature film is incredible and well thought out, to say the least. For a New Zealand indie film that was produced in the mid-'80s, this one is a truly worthy watch.
The limited budget of this motion picture has been used to great effect and it shows on the screen. Even though some of the viewers might be left dissatisfied or a bit bewildered by the surreal finale, they can't help but admire the ambiguity that tags along with it.