The 70+ Best Doomsday Movies, Ranked
- 1Cillian Murphy, Noah Huntley, Naomie Harris
In a world ravaged by a highly contagious "rage" virus, survival becomes the ultimate challenge for those not yet infected. Danny Boyle's heart-pounding thriller captures the intensity, panic, and despair that accompanies an unstoppable pandemic. From empty London streets filled with dread to heart-stopping encounters with the "infected," this film doesn't shy away from showcasing the darker side of humanity when faced with annihilation.
More 28 Days Later
- #23 of 253 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #470 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #6 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- 2Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone
When it comes to combining humor with a dangerous post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, this film knocks it out of the park. With a killer cast, cleverly inventive rules for surviving a zombie-infested America and some truly memorable moments, every viewer's left with an oddball sense of enjoyment amidst a bleak setting. Not only is the movie funny and scary at times, but it also manages to be oddly heartwarming as our ragtag group of survivors creates an unconventional family of their own.
More Zombieland- #167 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #15 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #72 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 3Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong
James Cameron's sci-fi masterpiece continues to captivate audiences to this day through its thrilling story, groundbreaking special effects, and nail-biting suspense. Arnold Schwarzenegger reprises his role as a fierce machine sent back in time to protect humanity's only hope for survival against an even more advanced Terminator. The stakes couldn't be higher, and the ensuing epic battle makes for cinematic perfection, leaving little doubt as to why this sequel has become synonymous with doomsday films.
- 4Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum
Packed with jaw-dropping visual effects, Will Smith's undeniable charm, and patriotic themes, this action-packed blockbuster captivates viewers from start to finish. When Earth comes under attack by technologically superior extraterrestrial beings, humankind is forced to band together in an all-out effort to save their planet from total destruction. With pulse-pounding aerial battles and a triumphant climax, this doomsday tale is as American as apple pie and worth every spectacular frame.
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- 5Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Ian Holm
In this awe-inspiring disaster epic from Roland Emmerich, viewers are faced with a chilling vision of Earth's future—an abrupt climate change that triggers catastrophic natural disasters enveloping the globe. From torrential storms to colossal tidal waves and unprecedented freezing temperatures, this film showcases the devastating consequences of a world unprepared for environmental catastrophe. Spine-chilling visuals and harrowing tales of human survival make this doomsday film both engaging and thought-provoking.
- #163 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #59 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #36 of 91 onThe 95+ Greatest Dystopian Action Movies
- 6Denzel Washington, Gary Oldman, Mila Kunis
Journey through a desolate wasteland as a lone wanderer named Eli fights to protect the last remaining copy of the Bible that holds the key to humanity's redemption. As an unexpected hero, Denzel Washington delivers a powerful performance in this tale of faith, sacrifice, and perseverance amidst an unforgiving post-apocalyptic world. With its rich atmosphere, riveting story, and gut-wrenching action sequences, this film is an unforgettable addition to the doomsday genre.
More The Book of Eli- #69 of 253 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #494 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #27 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- 7Will Smith, Alice Braga, Dash Mihok
Witness Will Smith deliver a gripping performance in this poignant adaptation of Richard Matheson's novel. As the last man on Earth after a deadly virus has wiped out most of humanity, Dr. Robert Neville struggles to find a cure while defending himself against bloodthirsty mutants. With palpable tension and heartache woven throughout its captivating narrative, this film serves as a haunting reminder of humanity's fragile existence.
More I Am Legend- #23 of 115 on50+ Movies That Need Sequels
- #28 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #164 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- 8Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Liv Taylor
A doomsday classic filled with humor, romance, and breathtaking special effects, Michael Bay's Armageddon follows a ragtag group of unlikely heroes tasked with saving Earth from an approaching asteroid. With Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, and Liv Tyler leading an all-star cast, this adrenaline-pumping adventure keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as they root for the planet's survival.
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- #100 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 9John Cusack, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Amanda Peet
Roland Emmerich once again takes us on an unforgettable ride through global cataclysm, envisioning a world ravaged by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis tied to the ancient Mayan prophecy. With all-star performances from John Cusack, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Amanda Peet, this visually stunning film pushes the boundaries of disaster cinema, creating a heart-stopping and emotional rollercoaster experience.
More 2012- #455 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #112 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #11 of 138 onThe 100+ Best Disaster Movies Of All Time
- 10Simon Pegg, Kate Ashfield, Lucy Davis
Imagine trying to maintain your mundane daily routine while the world comes crashing down around you in an undead apocalypse. That's precisely the witty premise of this cult favorite dark comedy featuring lovable slackers Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. Combining razor-sharp humor with tongue-in-cheek parody, it's impossible not to enjoy this hilarious take on an otherwise grim doomsday scenario.
More Shaun of the Dead- #169 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #3 of 115 on50+ Movies That Need Sequels
- #22 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 11Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Millicent Simmonds
Experience a chilling new twist on the doomsday genre with John Krasinski's A Quiet Place, where surviving in silence becomes paramount after mysterious creatures with hypersensitive hearing nearly wipe out humankind. Tension mounts as a family struggles to stay one step ahead of these deadly hunters. Visionary direction and a powerful cast, including Krasinski himself and Emily Blunt, make this film both nerve-wracking and emotionally resonant.
- 12Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Brendan Gleeson
Step right into a nail-biting time loop with Tom Cruise as he battles alien invaders in Doug Liman's smart and action-packed sci-fi thriller. Forced to relive his death repeatedly, Cruise's character learns from each fatal encounter and ultimately works alongside Emily Blunt to save humanity. Fast-paced and inventive, Edge of Tomorrow cleverly mixes apocalyptic danger with mind-bending plot twists that keep viewers hooked till the very end.
More Edge of Tomorrow- #135 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- #4 of 115 on50+ Movies That Need Sequels
- 13Sarah Polley, Ving Rhames, Jake Weber
Zombies have never been more terrifying than in director George A. Romero's iconic 1978 horror classic that explores consumerism amid a devastating undead apocalypse. As survivors take refuge in a shopping mall swarming with flesh-eating ghouls, they quickly learn that fighting for survival is more than just outrunning brain-hungry monsters. It's a sobering glimpse into humanity's darker nature.
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- 14Robert Carlyle, Rose Byrne, Jeremy Renner
In this pulse-pounding sequel to Danny Boyle's groundbreaking film, we're thrust back into the horrifying world of the Rage virus six months after its initial outbreak. Militarized zones and attempts to repopulate London quickly backfire, resulting in a horrifying resurgence of the bloodthirsty infected. With heart-stopping scenes and gritty realism, this sequel more than holds its own against its predecessor.
More 28 Weeks Later- #546 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #47 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #74 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- 15Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, James Badge Dale
When flesh-eating zombies threaten to bring about the end of humanity, it's up to Brad Pitt's character, a former United Nations investigator, to find answers and save the day. Director Marc Forster takes viewers on a whirlwind journey across the globe, showcasing terrifying infected hordes and harrowing moments of survival. A gripping narrative and breathtaking action sequences make World War Z an intense, exhilarating entry in the doomsday genre.
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- #173 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- #71 of 174 onThe Best Science Fiction Action Movies
- 16Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult
Immerse yourself in the post-apocalyptic wasteland that is George Miller's Mad Max: Fury Road—an action-packed, visually stunning thrill ride that redefines the doomsday genre. Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron lead us on a high-octane and immersive chase through a desolate, desert world ruled by a tyrannical warlord. The movie's relentless action, impressive practical effects, and striking cinematography create an unforgettable experience.
More Mad Max: Fury Road- #421 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #8 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #39 of 66 onMovies You Wish You Could Still Watch for the First Time
- 17Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin
Who says doomsday movies can't be wholesome? Pixar's heartwarming tale of a lonely trash-compacting robot named WALL-E reminds viewers of the true essence of life even when Earth is left uninhabitable due to overwhelming pollution. Aided by beautiful animation and touching storytelling, WALL-E is an impressive ode to perseverance and love amid environmental destruction.
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- #143 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #11 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- 18Jason Robards, JoBeth Williams, John Cullum
An eerily realistic portrayal of nuclear war's aftermath, The Day After delves deep into human vulnerability and despair as survivors struggle to cope in a ravaged world. With terrifyingly authentic depictions of a nuclear attack and its consequences, this chilling movie remains one of the most powerful and important doomsday films within the genre.
- 19Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt
Delve into the mind-bending world of Terry Gilliam's time-travel thriller as Bruce Willis' character is sent back from a pandemic-ravaged future to discover the origin of a deadly virus that wiped out most of humanity. Featuring thrilling twists, phenomenal acting (including Brad Pitt's eccentric portrayal of a mental institution inmate), and a message about the fragility of mankind, this film is a must-watch for doomsday movie enthusiasts.
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- #26 of 253 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #552 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 20Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Miranda Otto
Steven Spielberg reinvents H.G. Wells' classic tale of alien invasion, creating a heart-pounding spectacle with Tom Cruise at its center. As Earth is besieged by monstrous extraterrestrial tripods intent on exterminating humanity, one man fights to keep his family alive amidst chaos and destruction. Outstanding special effects and Spielberg's knack for blending action with emotion make this film a worthy addition to the doomsday movie canon.
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- #214 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
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- 21Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine
Set in a future where humanity faces extinction due to infertility, Children of Men presents a hauntingly realistic portrayal of societal breakdown and loss of hope. Alfonso Cuarón's gripping dystopian thriller stars Clive Owen as a reluctant hero tasked with escorting the last pregnant woman to safety amid chaos and violence. Combining thought-provoking themes and astounding cinematography, this film offers an unforgettable look into a fragile world on the brink of collapse.
More Children of Men- #734 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #17 of 162 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
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- 22David Emge, Ken Foree, Gaylen Ross
Get ready for another thrilling trip to the mall with Zack Snyder's 2004 reimagining of George A. Romero's zombie classic. With a fresh spin on the original, the remake injects terrifying new life into the undead apocalypse. With a gripping score, heart-pounding action, and gruesome special effects, this modern retelling stands tall as an essential addition to the genre.
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- #154 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #23 of 108 onThe Best Intelligent Horror Movies
- 23Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi, Ma Dong-seok
One of the most innovative additions to the zombie apocalypse subgenre, this South Korean gem is equal parts thrilling and heart-wrenching. As a father and daughter fight for their lives on a train full of passengers amidst a sudden zombie outbreak, viewers are treated to non-stop adrenaline and pulse-pounding excitement. With its unique take on an undead catastrophe, Train to Busan has become an instant classic in doomsday cinema.
More Train to Busan- #103 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
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- 24Chris Evans, Song Kang-ho, Tilda Swinton
Bound within the confines of a massive train perpetually traversing a frozen post-apocalyptic Earth, the last remnants of humanity struggle to maintain order and hope within their rigidly stratified society. Chris Evans stars as a lower-class rebel who leads an uprising against the totalitarian regime controlling the train. Expertly weaving action, political commentary, and breathtaking visuals, Snowpiercer is an unyielding parable about the human spirit's resilience in even the most unforgiving circumstances.
- 25Michael Rennie, Patricia Neal, Hugh Marlowe
Time travel back to 1951 for this groundbreaking sci-fi classic warning against the devastation of nuclear war. When an extraterrestrial named Klaatu (played by Michael Rennie) arrives on Earth with his powerful robot Gort, it sends shockwaves through society as they grapple with the alien’s ominous message: change your ways, or face annihilation. This film's culturally significant themes and innovative storytelling make it a timeless gem in the doomsday genre.
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- #131 of 149 onMovies That Should Never Be Remade
- 26Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone
Ten years after the original cult hit, enter a world once again teeming with zombies, humor, and quirky survival rules. Reuniting fan-favorite characters on an oddball road trip across post-apocalyptic America, audiences are treated to more outrageous encounters and laugh-out-loud comedy amidst palpable danger. Witty banter, colorful new faces, and thrilling action make this uproarious sequel a worthy follow-up in doomsday cinema.
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- 27John Goodman, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, John Gallagher
In this tension-filled thriller set within the Cloverfield universe, discover the claustrophobic reality of life inside a bunker when the world outside may (or may not) be facing catastrophic disaster. Featuring standout performances from John Goodman and Mary Elizabeth Winstead, this character-driven chamber piece keeps viewers guessing right up until its chilling climax. Richly atmospheric and genuinely suspenseful, 10 Cloverfield Lane is doomsday cinema at its best.
- 28Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly, Kathy Bates
Keanu Reeves takes on the role of Klaatu in this modern reinterpretation of the 1951 sci-fi classic, offering a dire warning about humanity's impact on Earth's ecosystems. Faced with global environmental collapse, humankind must change their ways or face annihilation by a race of cosmic observers. Boasting impressive CGI and updated themes for contemporary audiences, this adaptation breathes new life into a timeless tale of existential peril.
- #95 of 178 onThe 150+ Best Movies With Aliens
- #113 of 174 onThe Best Science Fiction Action Movies
- #30 of 51 onThe Best Movies Based on Short Stories
- 29Michael Stahl-David, Mike Vogel, Odette Annable
Experience first-hand the terror of an alien invasion through the lens of a camcorder in Matt Reeves' innovative found-footage thriller. As Manhattan crumbles beneath the onslaught of an enormous rampaging creature, viewers are thrust into each harrowing moment alongside desperate survivors navigating city streets turned into death traps. Cloverfield deftly blends horror, sci-fi, and doomsday cinema elements to create an instant classic.
- 30Yoo Ah-in, Park Shin-hye, Jeon Bae-soo
In this riveting Korean film, isolation takes center stage when a young man finds himself trapped in his apartment during a horrifying zombie uprising. Faced with dwindling resources and an ever-growing sense of desperation, he must rely on his wits and determination to survive in a nightmarish world teeming with undead dangers. #Alive cleverly uses modern technology and social media as integral components of its chilling narrative, making it a timely addition to the genre.
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