30 Harrowing Movies About Nuclear War

Jason Bancroft
Updated June 1, 2024 30 items
Ranked By
319 votes
57 voters
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite movies that feature nuclear war or the possibility of nuclear warfare.

The devastating impact of nuclear war has inspired filmmakers to craft powerful stories that confront this dire subject. The best nuclear war movies not only visualize the devastating aftermath of such catastrophic events but also delve into the psychological, political, and emotional consequences faced by characters in these harrowing scenarios. Audiences are captivated by the powerful storytelling and dramatic tension that set apart this genre of cinema. 

By presenting perspectives on nuclear warfare, these movies offer deep insight into the societal, political, and moral ramifications of the most terrifying form of conflict. The intricate narratives showcase this grim topic through strong character development, thought-provoking ideologies, and an in-depth exploration of societal repercussions. From gripping tales of geopolitical tension to intimate portrayals of survival in a post-apocalyptic world, these movies about nuclear war offer a journey through a chilling what-if scenario. 

You can find exceptional portrayals of nuclear conflict in films such as Fail Safe, Threads, and Fat Man and Little Boy, each weaving compelling narratives. Fail Safe presents an intense and suspenseful depiction of Cold War-era politics, centering on a malfunction that could lead to full-scale nuclear conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. Threads, on the other hand, takes a more visceral approach by portraying the gritty reality of everyday life, as survivors struggle to cope in the devastating aftermath of a nuclear strike. Similarly, Fat Man and Little Boy delves into the historical roots of nuclear weaponry, chronicling the moral dilemmas and ethical quandaries faced by the scientists who developed the atomic bomb. These  films represent just a few of the many fine examples of great movies about nuclear war. 

Beyond their compelling narratives, these films offer a perspective on the dangers of nuclear war, emphasizing the importance of understanding the potential consequences of cataclysmic conflict. They allow audiences to gain a deeper understanding of the potential horrors of nuclear conflict, and serve as cautionary tales that emphasize the need for diplomacy and peace in our increasingly interconnected world. Watchers are left with both a heightened awareness of the grave consequences that could result from nuclear war. 

  • Threads
    1

    Threads

    Reece Dinsdale, Karen Meagher, Rita May
    44 votes

    Mick Jackson's 1984 Threads is a harrowing and deeply unsettling portrayal of nuclear warfare set against the backdrop of everyday life in Sheffield, England. The film's brutally realistic depiction of the devastating aftermath of a nuclear attack sets it apart from other movies in the genre, showcasing the physical and psychological toll on survivors. With its chilling narrative and uncanny attention to detail, Threads forces audiences to confront the horrifying reality of a potential nuclear conflict. Its raw, unflinching approach to the subject matter truly makes it a standout in the realm of nuclear war cinema.

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  • The Day After
    2

    The Day After

    Jason Robards, JoBeth Williams, John Cullum
    27 votes

    As one of the most renowned nuclear war films, The Day After (1983) offers a devastating depiction of a world irrevocably changed by nuclear conflict. The film's relentless realism and powerful imagery provide a deeply unsettling window into the lives of everyday people affected by the unthinkable event. Director Nicholas Meyer's haunting vision of post-apocalyptic America continues to resonate with audiences as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of human conflict. Its lasting impact on cultural consciousness makes The Day After an essential entry in the annals of nuclear war cinema.

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  • By Dawn's Early Light
    3

    By Dawn's Early Light

    Powers Boothe, Rebecca De Mornay, James Earl Jones
    24 votes

    Jack Sholder's 1990 political thriller By Dawn's Early Light presents a chilling scenario where a submarine captain and the president of the United States must decide humanity's fate in the midst of mounting nuclear tensions. As one of the premier films about nuclear war, it expertly navigates the delicate balance between high-stakes decision-making and the tenuous alliances between world powers. Its absorbing narrative and compelling performances by Powers Boothe, Rebecca De Mornay, and Martin Landau keep audiences on the edge of their seats throughout. By Dawn's Early Light undoubtedly earns its place as a classic film tackling the terrifying consequences of global conflict.

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  • Testament
    4

    Testament

    Jane Alexander, William Devane, Roxana Zal
    22 votes

    Testament (1983) is a deeply moving portrayal of the struggles of an ordinary family in the aftermath of a nuclear attack. Directed by Lynne Littman, this powerful film distinguishes itself with its intimate focus on human emotion and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable devastation. Its heartfelt performances, especially by Jane Alexander as the matriarch of the family, perfectly capture the emotional weight of each character's journey. As a poignant study of love, loss, and survival, Testament stands out as one of the most touching and unforgettable films about nuclear war.

  • Fat Man and Little Boy
    5

    Fat Man and Little Boy

    Paul Newman, Dwight Schultz, Bonnie Bedelia
    15 votes

    Roland Joffé's 1989 historical drama Fat Man and Little Boy delves into the ethical, political, and scientific aspects surrounding the development of the world's first atomic weapons. The film masterfully transports viewers back to the top-secret Manhattan Project, where brilliant minds and military officials struggle with questions of morality and responsibility. Paul Newman and Dwight Schultz deliver captivating performances as they navigate the complex implications of their groundbreaking research. By offering an insider's perspective on this pivotal moment in history, Fat Man and Little Boy solidifies its status as one of the finest movies about nuclear war.

  • Fail Safe
    6

    Fail Safe

    Henry Fonda, Walter Matthau, Dan O'Herlihy
    16 votes

    In Sidney Lumet's 1964 classic, Fail Safe, the audience is treated to an absorbing and suspenseful study of the disastrous consequences of an accidental nuclear attack. As one of the best films dealing with the subject matter, it offers a unique and chilling perspective on the realities of the Cold War, all while providing a interesting political commentary. The film's masterful storytelling and incredible performances by Henry Fonda and Walter Matthau create a tense atmosphere that captivates viewers from start to finish. Fail Safe remains a powerful testament to the chilling inevitability of human error in the face of catastrophic destruction.

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  • The Sum of All Fears
    7

    The Sum of All Fears

    Ben Affleck, Morgan Freeman, James Cromwell
    24 votes

    In the 2002 adaptation of Tom Clancy's novel The Sum of All Fears, a neo-fascist group attempts to ignite a nuclear war between the United States and Russia, forcing young CIA analyst Jack Ryan (played by Ben Affleck) to take drastic action. This high-stakes thriller excels in its portrayal of bureaucratic intrigue and military brinkmanship, providing an edge-of-your-seat examination of modern geopolitical tensions. With its tight pacing, stellar cast, and thought-provoking themes, the film stands out as an engaging and chilling study of the dangers posed by nuclear technology. The Sum of All Fears remains a compelling reminder of the precarious balance that exists in our increasingly interconnected world.

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  • Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
    8

    Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb

    Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Keenan Wynn
    30 votes

    Stanley Kubrick's iconic 1964 black comedy, Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb, delivers a biting satire of the political and military establishments that have the power to unleash nuclear Armageddon. Its unique blend of humor and horror sets it apart from other films on the subject, exposing the absurdity of the Cold War and humanity's flirtation with self-destruction. With an unforgettable performance by Peter Sellers, Kubrick's masterpiece brilliantly walks the line between comedy and tragedy, ultimately cementing its position as an unparalleled classic in the realm of nuclear war films.

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  • When the Wind Blows
    9

    When the Wind Blows

    Peggy Ashcroft, John Mills
    16 votes

    Based on the graphic novel by Raymond Briggs, When the Wind Blows (1986) is an animated film that tells the bittersweet story of an elderly couple's attempts to survive in the aftermath of a nuclear attack. This heart-wrenching film distinguishes itself through its unique blend of hand-drawn and stop-motion animation, as well as its emotional study of the naivety and resilience of its central characters. Its somber themes and unforgettable visual style ensure that When the Wind Blows leaves a lasting impact on audiences, making it one of the most poignant and distinctive films about nuclear war.

  • WarGames
    10

    WarGames

    Matthew Broderick, Dabney Coleman, Ally Sheedy
    26 votes

    WarGames (1983), directed by John Badham, is a thrilling tale of a teenage computer hacker who inadvertently sets off a potentially catastrophic chain of events when he accesses a military supercomputer. As a standout in the nuclear war film genre, it expertly mixes suspense and humor while exploring the dangers of artificial intelligence and the world's reliance on technology. Matthew Broderick's captivating performance as the ingenious protagonist adds a layer of charm and excitement to the film. WarGames remains a beloved classic, not only for its thrilling plot but also for its timely themes that still resonate today.

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  • On the Beach
    11

    On the Beach

    Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, Fred Astaire
    11 votes

    Set in the aftermath of a global nuclear war, Stanley Kramer's 1959 adaptation of Nevil Shute's novel On the Beach is a poignant, powerful meditation on the human capacity for hope in the face of extinction. Featuring an all-star cast including Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, and Fred Astaire, this groundbreaking film examines the fates of disparate individuals as they come to terms with the inevitable end of life on Earth. Its sobering themes and moving performances have firmly established On the Beach as a classic in the nuclear war genre, exploring the limits of human resilience in the face of ultimate despair.

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  • The Bedford Incident
    12

    The Bedford Incident

    Richard Widmark, Sidney Poitier, Martin Balsam
    11 votes

    Taking inspiration from the Cuban Missile Crisis, The Bedford Incident (1965) presents a tense game of cat-and-mouse between a U.S. destroyer and a Soviet submarine during the height of the Cold War. This thrilling film showcases the intricate interplay between military strategy and human psychological frailty, distinguishing itself with its gripping narrative and memorable performances by Richard Widmark and Sidney Poitier. Its chilling study of the complex moral challenges faced during times of war has firmly established The Bedford Incident as a powerful and interesting entry in the pantheon of nuclear war cinema.

  • The War Game
    13

    The War Game

    Michael Aspel
    14 votes

    A pioneering achievement in the realm of nuclear war films, Peter Watkins' 1965 docudrama The War Game offers a chilling, hypothetical account of a nuclear attack on Britain. Its innovative use of documentary-style filmmaking, coupled with its unflinching portrayal of the devastation wrought by nuclear warfare, creates a deeply unsettling viewing experience. At the time of its release, the film's controversial themes and graphic images led to its suppression by the BBC. However, The War Game has since achieved critical acclaim for its provocative study of the unthinkable consequences of nuclear conflict.

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  • Barefoot Gen
    14

    Barefoot Gen

    Takeshi Aono, Katsuji Mori, Kōichi Kitamura
    20 votes

    Based on the semi-autobiographical manga by Keiji Nakazawa, Barefoot Gen (1983) is a harrowing animated film depicting the horrific aftermath of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. This emotionally charged film presents a unique and touching perspective on the human cost of nuclear warfare, as seen through the eyes of a young boy struggling to survive in the ruined city. With its stirring narrative and powerful imagery, Barefoot Gen remains a compelling reminder of the tragic consequences of armed conflict, solidifying its place as one of the best movies about nuclear war.

  • Miracle Mile
    15

    Miracle Mile

    Anthony Edwards, Mare Winningham, John Agar
    15 votes

    Anthony Edwards stars in Miracle Mile (1988), a thrilling tale of love and survival set against the backdrop of an impending nuclear attack on Los Angeles. With its unique blend of romance, action, and social commentary, this cult classic distinguishes itself as a standout in the nuclear war genre. Its nail-biting suspense and thought-provoking themes continue to captivate audiences, making Miracle Mile a must-see for fans of apocalyptic cinema.

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  • Thirteen Days
    16

    Thirteen Days

    Kevin Costner, Bruce Greenwood, Steven Culp
    23 votes

    Thirteen Days (2000) is a riveting historical drama that chronicles the tense political and military maneuvering during the Cuban Missile Crisis. As one of the best movies about nuclear war, the film masterfully captures the high-stakes nature of the events and the tremendous pressure placed on then-President John F. Kennedy and his advisors. With its gripping narrative and powerful performances from Kevin Costner and Bruce Greenwood, Thirteen Days offers an insightful examination of one of the most critical moments in modern history.

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  • Mission: Impossible - Fallout
    17

    Mission: Impossible - Fallout

    Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill, Ving Rhames
    18 votes

    The sixth installment in the action-packed franchise, Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018) sees Tom Cruise return as secret agent Ethan Hunt, tasked with preventing a terrorist organization from launching a nuclear attack. While the film's central focus is on spectacular stunts and thrilling set pieces, its chilling portrayal of nuclear conflict and the potential for global annihilation adds an extra layer of tension to the exciting narrative. Helmed with skill by director Christopher McQuarrie, this blockbuster offers both heart-pounding excitement and a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of nuclear warfare.

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  • The Peacemaker
    18

    The Peacemaker

    George Clooney, Nicole Kidman, Marcel Iures
    14 votes

    In Mimi Leder's 1997 action-thriller The Peacemaker, George Clooney and Nicole Kidman team up to track down stolen nuclear weapons and prevent a global catastrophe. As one of the best movies about nuclear war, the film excels in delivering high-octane action sequences and an absorbing plot, all while addressing the underlying geopolitical tensions surrounding nuclear proliferation. With its charismatic lead performances and intense pacing, The Peacemaker remains an entertaining and interesting journey into the complex world of international diplomacy and security.

  • Right at Your Door
    19

    Right at Your Door

    Mary McCormack, Rory Cochrane, Tony Perez
    8 votes

    In 2006's Right at Your Door, Rory Cochrane and Mary McCormack deliver gripping performances as a couple grappling with the aftermath of a dirty bomb attack in Los Angeles. The film's intimate focus on personal relationships and the challenges of survival sets it apart from other entries in the nuclear war genre. Its tense atmosphere and emotional depth make Right at Your Door a unique and unforgettable study of the human capacity for love and resilience in the face of disaster.

  • This Is Not a Test
    20

    This Is Not a Test

    Seamon Glass, Mary Morlass, Thayer Roberts
    8 votes

    In 1962's This Is Not a Test, a group of strangers is forced to confront their own fears and prejudices when they become trapped together at a highway roadblock during a nuclear emergency. Directed by Fredric Gadette, this low-budget film offers a unique study of human relationships and survival instincts in the face of impending catastrophe. With its tense atmosphere and interesting themes, This Is Not a Test remains a compelling and distinctive entry in the pantheon of nuclear war films.

  • World War III
    21

    World War III

    13 votes

    Starring Rock Hudson and David Soul, World War III (1982) is a gripping miniseries that imagines a world on the brink of nuclear conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. The film masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, portraying the complex and intertwined relationships between politics, military strategy, and human emotion. Its intelligent and thought-provoking examination of the consequences of global conflict has cemented World War III as a powerful and engaging entry in the nuclear war genre.

  • Crimson Tide
    22

    Crimson Tide

    Denzel Washington, Gene Hackman, George Dzundza
    20 votes

    In Tony Scott's 1995 submarine thriller Crimson Tide, Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington go head-to-head as naval officers with opposing views on how to deal with a possible nuclear attack from Russian rebels. This suspenseful and action-packed film showcases the moral and strategic dilemmas faced by those entrusted with the power to unleash nuclear devastation. With its claustrophobic setting, nail-biting tension, and stellar performances, Crimson Tide remains a gripping and thought-provoking addition to the canon of nuclear war cinema.

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  • A Boy and His Dog
    23

    A Boy and His Dog

    Don Johnson, Susanne Benton, Jason Robards
    13 votes

    L.Q. Jones' 1975 cult classic A Boy and His Dog presents a surreal, post-apocalyptic vision of a world devastated by nuclear war. The film follows a young man, played by Don Johnson, and his telepathic dog as they navigate the treacherous landscape in search of food and companionship. Its unique blend of dark humor, social commentary, and dystopian setting ensures that A Boy and His Dog remains a distinctive and unforgettable entry in the nuclear war film genre.

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  • Interceptor
    24

    Interceptor

    Elsa Pataky, Luke Bracey, Aaron Glenane
    10 votes

    Interceptor (1999) is an action-packed thriller starring Andrew Divoff and Jurgen Prochnow as pilots racing to stop a stolen stealth fighter equipped with nuclear weapons. The film's relentless pace and high-stakes plot set it apart in the genre, offering viewers an adrenaline-fueled ride through the skies as the fate of the world hangs in the balance. With its compelling performances and thrilling aerial sequences, Interceptor remains an exciting and enjoyable entry in nuclear war cinema.

  • The Fourth Protocol
    25

    The Fourth Protocol

    Michael Caine, Pierce Brosnan, Joanna Cassidy
    10 votes

    Based on Frederick Forsyth's bestselling novel, The Fourth Protocol (1987) is a gripping Cold War thriller in which British and Russian agents race to prevent the assembly of a nuclear device on British soil. Esteemed actors Michael Caine and Pierce Brosnan deliver outstanding performances, ensuring that this suspenseful tale of espionage and intrigue captivates audiences from start to finish. Its study of nuclear brinkmanship and international tensions continues to resonate today, making The Fourth Protocol a must-watch for fans of the nuclear war genre.

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  • Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines
    26

    Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines

    Arnold Schwarzenegger, Nick Stahl, Claire Danes
    10 votes

    The third installment of the iconic sci-fi series, Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003), pits Arnold Schwarzenegger's T-800 against a new, highly advanced Terminator sent back in time to ensure the onset of a devastating nuclear war. While the film is best known for its groundbreaking special effects and thrilling action, its study of humanity's capacity for self-destruction adds a sobering layer to the narrative. As a continuation of the series' overarching theme of apocalypse and survival, Terminator 3 remains a powerful and thought-provoking portrayal of the consequences of our reliance on technology.

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  • Outside the Wire
    27

    Outside the Wire

    Anthony Mackie, Damson Idris, Emily Beecham
    8 votes

    Starring Anthony Mackie and Damson Idris, Outside the Wire (2021) is a futuristic sci-fi thriller centered around a race against time to stop a rogue military officer from launching a deadly nuclear attack. Its fast-paced story, cutting-edge special effects, and riveting performances make it an entertaining and engaging addition to the nuclear war genre. The film's study of the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and the potential for global catastrophe adds a thought-provoking dimension to its high-stakes narrative.

  • Unthinkable
    28

    Unthinkable

    Samuel L. Jackson, Carrie-Anne Moss, Michael Sheen
    12 votes

    In 2010's Unthinkable, Samuel L. Jackson plays a counter-terrorism expert tasked with interrogating a man who claims to have planted three nuclear bombs in U.S. cities. This intense thriller delves into the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by those responsible for preventing a nuclear catastrophe, providing a chilling reminder of the stakes involved in such situations. With its gripping plot and excellent performances, Unthinkable remains an unforgettable study of the lengths people will go to in order to protect their loved ones and their country.

  • The Manhattan Project
    29

    The Manhattan Project

    John Lithgow, Christopher Collet, Cynthia Nixon
    12 votes

    The Manhattan Project (1986) is a thrilling tale of teenage ingenuity and nuclear espionage as a young boy discovers the secret development of a new atomic weapon. Directed by Marshall Brickman, the film expertly balances humor and suspense, offering an entertaining and thought-provoking look at the potential consequences of unchecked scientific advancement. Its engaging plot, memorable performances, and timely themes make The Manhattan Project a standout entry in the nuclear war genre.

  • Spies Like Us
    30

    Spies Like Us

    Chevy Chase, Dan Aykroyd, Donna Dixon
    10 votes

    In John Landis' 1985 comedy Spies Like Us, Chevy Chase and Dan Aykroyd play bumbling government agents unwittingly sent on a high-stakes mission to prevent a nuclear catastrophe. With its unique blend of slapstick humor and biting satire, the film offers a lighthearted look at the underlying absurdity of Cold War politics. Its clever commentary and hilarious performances ensure that Spies Like Us remains a beloved and memorable entry in the pantheon of films about nuclear war.

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