WhatsOn presents a must-see list of the top 7 all-time best disaster movies that have captivated audiences and kept them on edge. In this list, we’ve compiled 7 of the most iconic and unforgettable disaster movies that have left a lasting impression on viewers. Whether you’re a fan of classic disaster films or looking for something new to watch, these movies are sure to entertain and inspire.

San Andreas

The destructive yet action packed movie starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson focuses on a mega earthquake that rocks the world and it’s up to the hero to save the day. The disaster movie will have your jaw dropping in awe from the sheer amount of CGI that sucks you into the world and makes you think it’s real.  

Johnson brings charisma to the role, delivering both action and emotional depth as he strives to save his estranged wife and daughter. The film follows a familiar disaster movie formula but has enough action and depth to make it worth the watch. 

The day after Tomorrow

A 2004 disaster movie is an oldie but a Goldie. The film based on the 1999 novel The Coming Global Superstorm by Arte Bell explores the world after a catastrophic climate change event takes place. The main story depicts a climatologist Jack Hall as he runs to warn the world of this impending doom, whilst also going on a difficult journey to rescue his son Jack, played by a young Jake Gyllenhaal.

The CGI sequences have breathtaking visuals of superstorms, tidal waves, tornados and sequences of abrupt and extreme weather scenes that will take your breath away from the sheer realistic nature of this world. In the midst of the emotional relationship as a plot point, the film manages to get across a message about the dangers of climate change and a warning to the audience of being responsible about the environment they are in charge of.

Train to Busan

The South Korean film explores an outbreak of the Zombie Virus that breaks the normal modern world into a post-apocalyptic scenario where a father, played by well renown South Korean actor Gong Yoo, as he strives to protect his young daughter whilst on a train that keeps on running on a single track.

This heart breaking, goosebump inducing and unique idea combined with the action sequences on and around the train results in a dramatic and thrilling movie. A perfect movie to mark the end of a week that will transport your mind into a movie that is both unpredictable and emotionally charged.

Twisters

A sequel to the cult class Twister, this is a newly released film that made its stormy debut in the summer of 2024. This film will have you on the edge of your seat as you watch Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones battle against a series of destructive tornados. The film’s breath-taking cinematography and action will be sure to take your breath away.

Going beyond the action of Twisters are characters whose determination, courage and strive to survive will allow you to root for the characters throughout the journey they have in the film. Don’t miss out on this movie that will make its streaming debut on Peacock this November. 

Don’t look up

Another disaster movie that focuses on climate change has a gripping story that focuses on the indifference of society members towards this issue. Despite the lack of action, this movie is an eye opener on the ignorance of the public towards an issue that will potentially result in the end of the world.

The film starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence give a gripping performance on their journey to warn everyone of an impending meteorite that’s making its steady way towards Earth, and its inhabitants.

Directed by Adam McKay the film offers an engaging way that involves the media and public which allows the audience to have provoking thoughts about the real-world issues.

Edge of Tomorrow

The cult class sci-fi movie is a must watch for anyone who’s a sci-fi fan. Starring the Hollywood legend Tom Cruise whose joined by a stunning Emily Blunt. Tom Cruise plays Major William Cage who finds himself in a time loop and must work with Emily Blunt, a fierce combat veteran to alter the outcome of the battle.

The two stars give one of the best performances of their acting career. Tom Cruise is effective in this staring role, giving both a comedic and action star vibe to this film, while Emily Blunt is not the usual female lead whose only role is to be saved by the male character. She strives in the film as a levelheaded strong character. The film combines the elements of an alien invasion on Earth with time traveling aspects that makes the movie unpredictable and engaging.

2012

This list must end with the epic sci-fi disaster film that explores a what if scenario of if the Malayan calendar’s prediction that the world will end in 2012 came true. The film follows struggling writer played by actor John Cusack as he tries to escape with his family to find a place in a government bunker that has been designed to preserve the remaining population of humanity. The film has spectacular visual effects depicting destruction on Earth from massive Earthquake, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.

The gripping plot with the earth destroying scenarios is enough to keep the audience’s attention throughout.

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