In recent years, post-apocalyptic movies have become increasingly popular. The idea of a world after a catastrophic event has captured the imagination of audiences, and filmmakers have responded with some of the best films of recent years. Here are some of the best new post-apocalyptic movies.
1. “A Quiet Place” (2018)
Directed by John Krasinski, “A Quiet Place” tells the story of a family struggling to survive in a world where creatures that hunt by sound have taken over. The film is a masterclass in tension and suspense, with a strong focus on character development and family dynamics.
2. “Mad Max: Fury Road” (2015)
“Mad Max: Fury Road” is a high-octane thrill ride set in a world where water and gasoline are scarce commodities. The film follows Max (Tom Hardy) and Furiosa (Charlize Theron) as they attempt to escape the clutches of a ruthless warlord. The action is non-stop, and the film’s use of practical effects is truly impressive.
3. “Snowpiercer” (2013)
The film is set aboard a train that circles the globe after a failed attempt to stop global warming caused an ice age. The train is divided into a rigid class system, and the film follows the lower-class passengers as they attempt to overthrow the elites. The film’s themes of class struggle and environmentalism are both timely and thought-provoking.
4. “The Road” (2009)
Directed by John Hillcoat, “The Road” is a bleak and harrowing adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s novel of the same name. The film follows a father (Viggo Mortensen) and his son as they journey across a post-apocalyptic landscape in search of safety. The film is a meditation on survival, hope, and the human condition.
5. “I Am Legend” (2007)
“I Am Legend” is a gripping adaptation of Richard Matheson’s novel of the same name. The film follows Robert Neville (Will Smith) as he navigates a world ravaged by a virus that turns humans into vampires. The film’s portrayal of loneliness and isolation is both haunting and powerful.
6. “The Book of Eli” (2010)
This film is set in a post-apocalyptic America. The film follows Eli (Denzel Washington) as he travels west with a book that he believes will save humanity. The film’s action sequences are impressive, but it’s the relationship between Eli and a young girl named Solara (Mila Kunis) that really makes the film shine.
7. “Children of Men” (2006)
Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, “Children of Men” is set in a world where humanity has become infertile. The film follows a former activist named Theo (Clive Owen) as he becomes embroiled in a plot to transport a young woman who may be the last hope for humanity’s survival. The film’s use of long, uninterrupted shots is impressive, and the film’s themes of hope and redemption are both poignant and powerful.
8. “The Hunger Games” (2012)
“The Hunger Games” is set in a dystopian future where teenagers are forced to fight to the death in an annual event known as the Hunger Games. The film follows Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) as she becomes a symbol of hope for a downtrodden society. The film’s themes of resistance and revolution are both timely and important.
9. “28 Days Later” (2002)
“28 Days Later” is a British horror film that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a deadly virus that turns people into raging zombies. The film follows Jim (Cillian Murphy) as he awakens from a coma to find himself alone in a world overrun by the infected. The film’s fast-paced action and intense suspense make it a standout in the zombie genre.
10. “The Maze Runner” (2014)
“The Maze Runner” is set in a dystopian future where a group of teenagers are trapped in a mysterious maze. The film follows Thomas (Dylan O’Brien) as he leads the group in an attempt to escape and uncover the secrets of their captivity. The film’s suspenseful plot and strong performances make it an engaging watch.
11. “The Survivalist” (2015)
Directed by Stephen Fingleton, “The Survivalist” is a low-budget British film that tells the story of a man (Martin McCann) who lives alone in a secluded woodland area in a world where food and resources are scarce. His world is turned upside down when a mother (Olwen Fouéré) and daughter (Mia Goth) arrive seeking shelter. The film’s small scale and minimalistic approach create an intimate and gripping experience.
12. “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” (2014)
This film takes place in a world where a virus has wiped out most of humanity, and a group of intelligent apes have established a thriving society. The film follows the conflict between the apes and a group of human survivors as they struggle for dominance. The film’s impressive visual effects and strong performances make it a standout in the franchise.
13. “Cargo” (2017)
Directed by Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke, “Cargo” is an Australian film that takes place in a world ravaged by a zombie-like virus. The film follows a father (Martin Freeman) as he attempts to protect his infant daughter and find a safe place for her to live before he succumbs to the virus. The film’s emotional weight and unique take on the zombie genre make it a must-watch.
14. “Z for Zachariah” (2015)
“Z for Zachariah” is a post-apocalyptic romance film that takes place after a nuclear disaster. The film follows a young woman (Margot Robbie) who believes she is the last person on earth until she meets a scientist (Chiwetel Ejiofor) and a young man (Chris Pine) who both arrive at her secluded farm. The film’s exploration of human connection and survival make it a standout in the genre.
15. “The Girl with All the Gifts” (2016)
“The Girl with All the Gifts” takes place in a world where a fungal infection has turned most of humanity into flesh-eating zombies. The film follows a young girl named Melanie (Sennia Nanua) who may hold the key to a cure. The film’s exploration of morality and humanity in a post-apocalyptic world make it a standout in the zombie genre.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are just a few of the best new post-apocalyptic movies. Each film offers a unique take on the genre, with a focus on character development, suspense, and exploration of humanity in extreme circumstances. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed thrillers, emotional dramas, or thought-provoking sci-fi, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a wild ride.
