If you’re a movie buff, you might share the view that movies have been a powerful means of exploring human fragility in the face the relentless force of nature, but they have also been able to highlight the strength and value emanating from the survival instinct.
From devastating earthquakes to tsunamis and towering volcanoes, filmmakers have taken some of the most catastrophic events triggered by nature to the big screen. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most impactful movies that have portrayed these natural events:
The Impossible (2012)
Directed by Juan Antonio Bayona, this movie is based on the true story of a Spanish family who survived Thailand’s devastating tsunami in 2004. The movie captures distress and hope as they struggle to reunite amid chaos.
Only the Brave (2017)
Also based on real events, this movie follows a group of firefighters fighting a deadly wildfire in Arizona. The courage and sacrifice of these heroes stands out amid the catastrophe.
San Andreas (2015)
In this movie, the shifting of California’s legendary fault, which gives its name to the movie, is activated and causes a massive earthquake. Dwayne Johnson leads the fight for survival in a world that is falling apart.
Don’t Look Up (2021)
This movie portrays two astronomers who discover that a meteorite will destroy planet Earth in a few months. From that point on, they embark on a media tour to alert humanity that a comet is going to collide with Earth.
The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
In this movie, climate change triggers a series of extreme events, including superstorms and a new ice age. The characters must face nature as it spins out of control in order to save humanity.
Five Days at Memorial (2022)
A miniseries based on actual events about the impact of Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath at a local hospital. As the water level rose, the power went out and the heat soared. Workers at a New Orleans hospital were forced to make decisions that will mark them for life.
The plots of these movies revolve around how humanity faces these catastrophes to find a solution. Being aware of the strength of nature and the increased frequency and severity of natural phenomena is crucial for the protection and prevention of human, material, and financial losses.
