Possibly the most appealing aspect of the curious sub-genre of the disaster movie is high-budget spectacle and excess. And sometimes, the best of such films perfectly capture that spirit of a playful fireworks show. They feature an ensemble of stars, goofy archetypes, long runtimes, and state-of-the-art effects that bring the disasters of our nightmares to life.
Occasionally, there are even scenarios that compel you to ask what you would do in survival situations. But further still, when a level of poignancy is incorporated, the genre is ripe for compelling drama and social commentary. Richer material taps into primal themes of suffering, endurance, and cynical depictions of violent regression. So, let’s consider the ten most entertaining or touching disaster movies.
War Of The Worlds (2005)
Steven Spielberg’s ambitious take on H.G. Wells’ classic strangely received warmer reviews from critics than audiences. Perhaps the family melodrama and the suspension of disbelief at times, were a bit much for some. However, the film is an absolute thrill ride.
The Tripod designs are terrific, the CGI is convincing, John Williams’ score is on point, and the action sequences are immersive thanks to grounded camerawork. It’s primarily a survival story, showing both the kindness and desperate ruthlessness humans resort to during emergencies. Also, the sense of mystery and awe-inspiring destruction are satisfying.
The Poseidon Adventure
Gene Hackman leads the cast in this ship disaster. It’s conceptually robust, with the simplicity and intrigue of flipping a ship upside down. It makes for a series of visually compelling sets and a unique obstacle course for the desperate survivors. Hackman leads a decent cast as a priest, giving the film more depth than expected.
However, this Irwin Allen classic establishes various archetypes that would permanently inform and perpetuate the disaster sub-genre. Numerous suspense sequences test the characters’ wit and moral fortitude. Rather than a CGI display, the characters must outsmart their dire, unprecedented situation.
Independence Day (1996)
Independence Day is a shameless throwback to ’50s alien invasions. It intentionally skews towards cheesy, but doesn’t shy away from a sincere death scene. The film is very much of its time, genuinely asking how the ’90s would react to an alien invasion.
The ensemble cast mixes government with everyday people, overflowing with stereotypes and archetypes. However, the entire cast is so likable and full of natural charisma, it’s still easy to invest. The pacing is terrific, and the effects are just top notch. The film wholeheartedly commits to grandeur and fun, ultimately living up to every promise.
Titanic
James Cameron’s iconic film is one of the most famous romances of all time. It was a pop culture juggernaut with charming leads who clearly have great chemistry. In fact, the formulaic romance with a class divide wouldn’t thrive without them.
Still, it’s fun historical fiction that remains informed by the inevitable tragedy throughout. The ship herself was a fascinating vessel, and it’s visually arresting to see her brought back to life. Once the disaster occurs, the desperation and white-knuckle action are bolstered by Cameron’s skilled, grounded approach. The sinking is mercilessly heartbreaking and overwhelming.
The Towering Inferno
This brisk follow-up to The Poseidon Adventure boasts a remarkable cast, including both Steve McQueen and Paul Newman. The formula of its precedent is often revisited, with cheesy sentimentality and one-note characters which are carried by familiar faces. Even similar themes are borrowed, and it’s certainly equally claustrophobic.
However, this isn’t a natural disaster — the mesmerizing fire is caused by greed and hubris, which is equally interesting. This allows for an actual villain and careful countermeasures from the heroes. The systematic destruction of a massive high-rise provides some of the most incredible practical sets and action in the genre.
Twister
Twister takes an unusual approach to any disaster, having its protagonists actively pursue disasters for the thrill. Nature isn’t the enemy here but a fascination, both wondrous and merciless. Storm-chasing also gives a perfect reason for the protagonists to be in the middle of such danger to begin with.
Most disaster movies can be a drag, aiming for bloated runtimes and overpopulated casts. But this story focuses on a small team that offers a small-town, family vibe. The love story, characters, and jokes are goofy but the special effects and cast are an absolute treasure of the genre.
Apollo 13
Those who haven’t the slightest interest in science or the space program can still be entertained by this incredible story. Ron Howard’s film captures the sense of wonder regarding space and its mysteries. Its deep commitment to truth is commendable, and unique among disaster movies.
The psychological effects on the astronauts and their families makes for gripping drama. Their family dynamics and camaraderie are convincing and intriguing. Like many science-oriented stories, problem-solving is abundant. This keeps a desperate, exciting urgency both in space and on the ground.
Gravity
This is easily one of the most visually engaging movies in any genre, regardless of the impressive debris. It has a remarkably short runtime, with waves of absolutely breathtaking space destruction. Alfonso Cuarón is clearly an auteur of his own, with brilliant imagery and innovative technical pursuits.
Protagonist Sandra Bullock delivers an equally charming and poignant performance, alone throughout the majority of the movie. Without her, the convincing visual effects would mean nothing. It’s a thematically simple story but it’s still a moving one. It’s about finding a reason to survive, and not just the will.
The Birds
This apocalyptic Hitchcock thriller uses a mysterious disaster scenario to fuel character drama. What begins as a simple romantic comedy is imbued with suspicious bird activity that only escalates into violence. It’s a truly unique concept, taking such an ordinary animal and corrupting its familiarity with horror.
Given the ambiguous ending, let alone a terrifying diner sequence, it certainly applies to the disaster genre. However, the intriguing premise is merely a vehicle for equally compelling, thematically vibrant relationships. Each of the characters has nuanced issues which they are pressured to confront by the increasingly oppressive disaster.
The Impossible
This tale of a true natural disaster is the most moving and terrifying in the genre. The tsunami is flawlessly realistic, with scenes of terror involving both sweeping shots of carnage and intimate points of view. This film is more interested in the aftermath of a disaster than the event itself. As such, it mostly focuses on a family’s desperate attempts to reunite.
However, the action and gore are absolutely merciless, with repulsive depictions of injuries and illness. Ultimately, the film definitely earns its title, with the implausibility offering both frustration and inspiration.
