Apocalyptic Chills: The Best Disaster Movies on Netflix

Hey, there, horror hounds. Hope you’re doing well.

As you can see, we’re talking disaster movies this time around. Now I’ve spent countless hours scouring Netflix for the cream of the catastrophe crop, and you know what? There’s something oddly satisfying about watching the world crumble from the comfort of your couch. Whether it’s Earth-shattering earthquakes, world-ending comets, or climate catastrophes, these films offer a thrilling escape into worst-case scenarios that (hopefully) most of us will never experience.

I’ve compiled a list of the best disaster movies currently on Netflix (my favorite of all the streaming services) that should appeal to you fear junkies. These films will have you gripping your armrests, gasping at spectacular special effects (in most cases), and maybe even shedding a tear or two. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s leap into the apocalyptic wonders that await you below.

1. 2012 (2009): The End of the World as We Know It

Synopsis: In Roland Emmerich’s epic disaster film “2012,” the ancient Mayan calendar’s end date becomes a terrifying reality. As the Earth’s core overheats due to neutrinos from a massive solar flare, geologist Adrian Helmsley (Chiwetel Ejiofor) races against time to warn world leaders of the impending global cataclysm. Meanwhile, struggling writer Jackson Curtis (John Cusack) fights to save his family amidst earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions that threaten to annihilate humanity.

Review: “2012” is a visual spectacle that showcases Emmerich’s mastery of large-scale destruction. The film’s impressive special effects bring to life some of the most awe-inspiring disaster sequences ever put to screen. From the crumbling of Los Angeles to a tsunami engulfing the Himalayas, each catastrophe is more jaw-dropping than the last.

While the plot may stretch scientific credibility, the film’s breakneck pacing and high-stakes action keep you thoroughly engaged. John Cusack brings his everyman charm to the role of Jackson Curtis, making him a relatable hero in the face of overwhelming odds. Chiwetel Ejiofor’s performance as the conscience-stricken scientist adds a layer of gravitas to the proceedings.

“2012” may not win any awards for its script, but it delivers exactly what disaster movie fans crave: edge-of-your-seat thrills, spectacular visuals, and a dash of cheesy one-liners. It’s a guilty pleasure of the highest order that reminds us why we love this genre.

2. Don’t Look Up (2021): A Satirical Take on Impending Doom

Synopsis: Adam McKay’s star-studded satire “Don’t Look Up” follows astronomers Dr. Randall Mindy (Leonardo Di Caprio) and Kate Dibiasky (Jennifer Lawrence) as they discover a comet on a collision course with Earth. Their attempts to warn humanity are met with political indifference, media distraction, and public apathy. As the clock ticks down to extinction, the scientists must navigate a world more concerned with social media trends than impending doom.

Review: “Don’t Look Up” is a biting commentary on our current climate crisis, wrapped in the trappings of a disaster film, and, though lambasted by some, was one of the best movies of 2021 for me. McKay’s script crackles with dark humor and pointed observations about society’s inability to face existential threats head-on.

The film’s greatest strength lies in its star-studded cast. Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence shine as the increasingly frustrated scientists, while Meryl Streep is deliciously callous as the self-serving President Orlean. Jonah Hill’s turn as the president’s sycophantic son and chief of staff provides some of the film’s biggest laughs.

While “Don’t Look Up” may not feature the typical disaster movie spectacle, its satirical take on how we might react to an impending apocalypse is both hilarious and horrifying. The film’s final act delivers a gut-punch that lingers long after the credits roll, making it a unique and thought-provoking entry in the disaster genre.

3. Skyscraper (2018): Die Hard Meets The Towering Inferno

Synopsis: In “Skyscraper,” Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson stars as Will Sawyer, a former FBI Hostage Rescue Team leader turned security consultant. When terrorists set fire to the world’s tallest building in Hong Kong, Sawyer must navigate the burning skyscraper to save his family trapped inside. With time running out and the odds stacked against him, Sawyer pushes his limits in a high-stakes game of survival.

Review: “Skyscraper” is an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride that combines the claustrophobic tension of a burning building with the high-octane action we’ve come to expect from The Rock. Director Rawson Marshall Thurber crafts some genuinely nail-biting sequences, including a vertigo-inducing climb on the outside of the building that had me holding my breath.

Johnson brings his trademark charisma and physicality to the role of Will Sawyer. His character’s disability (a prosthetic leg) adds an interesting dimension to the action scenes and serves as a metaphor for overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.

While the plot may not break new ground in the disaster genre, “Skyscraper” excels in its execution. The visual effects are top-notch, creating a palpable sense of danger as fire engulfs the titular building. The film also benefits from a strong supporting cast, including Neve Campbell as Sawyer’s equally capable wife.

“Skyscraper” may not be the most original disaster movie, but it’s an immensely entertaining popcorn flick that delivers exactly what it promises: The Rock versus a really tall, really on-fire building.

4. The Ice Road (2021): Frozen Peril on Treacherous Terrain

Synopsis: In “The Ice Road,” Liam Neeson stars as Mike McCann, a seasoned ice road trucker who takes on a perilous mission to save trapped miners in northern Canada. With a team including his brother Gurty (Marcus Thomas) and Tantoo (Amber Midthunder), McCann must transport vital equipment across frozen lakes and rivers. As they battle treacherous conditions and corporate sabotage, the clock ticks down on the miners’ survival.

Review: “The Ice Road” takes the disaster movie formula and gives it a frosty twist. Director Jonathan Hensleigh crafts a tense thriller that makes excellent use of its unique setting. The ice road sequences are genuinely nerve-wracking, with each crack and groan of the frozen surface ratcheting up the tension.

Liam Neeson brings his grizzled gravitas to the role of Mike McCann, proving once again why he’s become the go-to actor for these types of action-thriller roles. His chemistry with Marcus Thomas as his brother Gurty, who struggles with aphasia, adds emotional depth to the story.

The film’s pacing is relentless, barely giving the audience (or the characters) a moment to catch their breath. While some of the plot twists veer into predictable territory, the unique setting and well-executed action sequences keep things engaging.

“The Ice Road” may not reinvent the wheel, but it’s a solid addition to the disaster movie genre that will have you on the edge of your seat – and possibly reaching for a warm blanket.

5. The Wave (2015): Nature’s Fury Unleashed in the Fjords

Synopsis: Based on a real-life geological threat from good old Mother Nature herself, “The Wave” follows geologist Kristian Eikjord (Kristoffer Joner) as he discovers signs of an impending disaster in the Geiranger fjord. When a mountain collapses, triggering a massive tsunami, Kristian must race against time to save his family and warn the townspeople before the 85-meter wave destroys everything in its path.

Review: “The Wave” is a refreshing take on the disaster genre that proves you don’t need a Hollywood budget to create a gripping catastrophe film. Director Roar Uthaug crafts a taut thriller that balances spectacular destruction with intimate human drama.

The film’s greatest strength lies in its focus on character development. We spend ample time getting to know Kristian and his family, which makes their peril all the more affecting when disaster strikes. Kristoffer Joner delivers a powerful performance as the troubled geologist, conveying both scientific determination and raw fear.

When the wave finally hits, the special effects are surprisingly impressive for a lower-budget film. The sequence is genuinely terrifying, with a visceral sense of nature’s overwhelming power. The aftermath is equally harrowing, as survivors struggle through flooded and debris-filled streets.

“The Wave” stands out for its realism and emotional depth. It’s a disaster movie that remembers the “human” in “human disaster,” making for a more impactful and memorable experience.

6. The Impossible (2012): Survival Against All Odds

Synopsis: Based on a true story, “The Impossible” is an intense survival film that follows the Bennet family’s harrowing experience during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. While vacationing in Thailand, Maria (Naomi Watts), Henry (Ewan McGregor), and their three sons are separated when the massive wave hits. As Maria and her eldest son Lucas (Tom Holland) struggle to survive, Henry searches desperately for the rest of his family amidst the chaos and destruction.

Review: “The Impossible” is a gut-wrenching, emotionally charged disaster film that puts a human face on one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history. Director J.A. Bayona crafts a visceral experience that’s as much about the triumph of the human spirit as it is about nature’s destructive power.

The tsunami sequence itself is a masterclass in tension and terror. Bayona’s unflinching camera puts you right in the midst of the churning water, creating a palpable sense of disorientation and fear. The aftermath is equally harrowing, with graphic depictions of injuries and devastation that drive home the true horror of the event.

Naomi Watts delivers an Oscar-nominated performance as Maria, conveying both physical agony and fierce maternal determination. Ewan McGregor brings depth to Henry’s desperate search, while a young Tom Holland impresses in his breakout role as Lucas.

What sets “The Impossible” apart is its focus on the bonds of family and the kindness of strangers in the face of unimaginable tragedy. It’s a disaster movie that will leave you emotionally drained but also oddly hopeful about humanity’s resilience.

7. Twister (1996): Chasing the Perfect Storm

Synopsis: In “Twister,” storm chasers Jo (Helen Hunt) and Bill (Bill Paxton) reunite to test an innovative tornado research device during a massive outbreak in Oklahoma. As they pursue increasingly dangerous storms, they compete with a rival team led by the corporate-backed Jonas (Cary Elwes). With personal tensions rising and tornadoes growing stronger, Jo and Bill must confront both nature’s fury and their own unresolved feelings.

Review: “Twister” is a great disaster movie genre that still holds up today thanks to its thrilling action sequences and charismatic leads. Director Jan de Bont brings his action movie expertise to bear, creating a film that’s part disaster spectacle, part road movie, and part romance.

The tornado effects, a mix of practical and early CGI, remain impressive even by today’s standards. Each encounter with a twister is a white-knuckle experience, from flying cows to exploding tanker trucks. The film’s sound design is particularly noteworthy, with the roar of the tornadoes providing a terrifying soundtrack to the action.

Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton have great chemistry as the estranged couple thrown back together by their shared passion for storm chasing. Their banter and unresolved tension provide a human anchor to the larger-than-life events swirling around them.

While the science may be questionable and some of the dialogue cheesy, “Twister” remains an immensely entertaining thrill ride. It’s a perfect example of the 90s disaster movie boom, balancing spectacle with heart in a way that keeps you engaged from the first gust to the last.

8. The Day After Tomorrow (2004): Climate Change Catastrophe

Synopsis: In Roland Emmerich’s “The Day After Tomorrow,” climatologist Jack Hall (Dennis Quaid) warns of an event triggered by global warming that will unleash a series of catastrophic events, most notably a new ice age. When his predictions come true far sooner than expected, Jack must trek across a frozen wasteland to rescue his son Sam (Jake Gyllenhaal), trapped in New York City. As superstorms ravage the globe and temperatures plummet, humanity faces its greatest challenge yet.

Review: “The Day After Tomorrow” is a prime example of Roland Emmerich’s talent for crafting visually stunning disaster scenarios. The film’s depiction of extreme weather events is both terrifying and awe-inspiring, from tsunami-like floods engulfing New York City to tornadoes tearing through Los Angeles.

While the science behind the film’s rapid climate shift is dubious at best, it serves as an effective vehicle for exploring themes of environmental neglect and human resilience. Dennis Quaid brings gravitas to his role as the concerned scientist, while Jake Gyllenhaal’s performance grounds the more outlandish elements in relatable human drama.

The film’s pacing is relentless, barely giving the audience time to catch their breath between catastrophes. This works in its favor, as it prevents too much scrutiny of the more far-fetched plot elements. The scenes of a frozen New York City are particularly memorable, creating an eerie post-apocalyptic atmosphere.

“The Day After Tomorrow” may not be the most scientifically accurate disaster film, but it succeeds in delivering spectacular visuals and a sobering (if exaggerated) warning about the potential consequences of climate change.

9. San Andreas (2015): Shaken, Not Stirred

Synopsis: In “San Andreas,” Dwayne Johnson stars as Ray Gaines, a Los Angeles Fire Department helicopter rescue pilot. When a massive earthquake strikes California, Ray must navigate the destruction to save his estranged wife Emma (Carla Gugino) and daughter Blake (Alexandra Daddario). As aftershocks trigger even more devastation, including a tsunami, Ray’s journey becomes a race against time and nature itself.

Review: “San Andreas” is a by-the-numbers disaster film that succeeds largely due to Dwayne Johnson’s charisma and some truly impressive special effects. Director Brad Peyton crafts a series of increasingly outlandish disaster scenarios that showcase the destructive power of earthquakes on a massive scale.

The film’s greatest strength lies in its visual effects. The sequences of Los Angeles and San Francisco crumbling are genuinely jaw-dropping, with a level of detail that makes the destruction feel terrifyingly real. The tsunami scene, in particular, is a standout moment of cinematic spectacle.

Dwayne Johnson brings his trademark charm and physicality to the role of Ray Gaines, making for a likable hero amidst the chaos. His chemistry with Carla Gugino adds a touch of emotional depth to the proceedings, even if their storyline feels somewhat formulaic.

While “San Andreas” doesn’t break new ground in terms of plot or character development, it delivers exactly what disaster movie fans crave: big-budget destruction, narrow escapes, and a triumphant hero saving the day. It’s a popcorn movie in the truest sense – turn off your brain, suspend your disbelief, and enjoy the ride.

10. Deep Impact (1998): Comet Calamity

Synopsis: In “Deep Impact,” a comet is discovered on a collision course with Earth, threatening all life on the planet. As the government scrambles to prepare, the film follows multiple storylines: a teenage astronomer (Elijah Wood) who discovered the comet, a journalist (Téa Leoni) uncovering the truth, and the crew of the spacecraft Messiah attempting to divert the comet. With the clock ticking down to impact, humanity faces its greatest challenge.

Review: “Deep Impact” stands out among apocalyptic movies for its more thoughtful, character-driven approach to global catastrophe. Director Mimi Leder balances spectacular destruction with intimate human drama, creating a film that’s as much about how we face mortality as it is about comets and tidal waves.

The film’s multiple storylines allow for a broader exploration of how different people might react to impending doom. Morgan Freeman brings gravitas to his role as the President, delivering speeches that feel genuinely inspiring in the face of catastrophe. Elijah Wood and Téa Leoni provide relatable anchors for the audience, their personal struggles grounding the larger-than-life events.

When the disaster sequences do come, they’re impressively realized, particularly for a film from the late 90s. The tidal wave engulfing New York City is a standout moment, both terrifying and awe-inspiring in its scale.

What sets “Deep Impact” apart is its willingness to grapple with the emotional and philosophical implications of its premise. It’s a disaster movie with a heart, asking us to consider what truly matters when faced with the end of everything.

11. Society of the Snow (2023): Survival Against All Odds in the Andes

Synopsis: Based on the true story of the 1972 Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 crash, “Society of the Snow” follows the harrowing tale of survival in the Andes Mountains. When a plane carrying a Uruguayan rugby team crashes on a remote glacier, the survivors face extreme cold, dwindling supplies, and the moral dilemma of cannibalism. Over 72 days, they must fight against nature and their own humanity in a desperate bid to stay alive and find rescue.

Review: J.A. Bayona’s “Society of the Snow” is a gripping and unflinching portrayal of human endurance in the face of unimaginable adversity. It is also one of the great disaster movies in recent memory. The film’s strength lies in its raw, visceral depiction of survival, never shying away from the brutal realities the crash victims faced.

Bayona’s direction is masterful, creating a palpable sense of isolation and desperation. The use of practical effects and on-location shooting in the Sierra Nevada lends an authenticity to the film that heightens its emotional impact. The crash sequence itself is a terrifying spectacle, setting the tone for the ordeal to come.

What sets “Society of the Snow” apart from other survival films is its nuanced exploration of the moral and psychological toll on the survivors. The decision to resort to cannibalism is handled with sensitivity and gravity, forcing the audience to confront uncomfortable questions about what they might do in similar circumstances.

The ensemble cast delivers powerful performances, conveying the physical and emotional deterioration of the characters over time. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing us to feel the weight of each passing day and the dwindling hope of rescue.

“Society of the Snow” is not an easy watch, but it’s a profoundly moving and thought-provoking experience. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a sobering reminder of the extreme measures survival can demand.

12. Mira (2022): A Young Hero’s Quest in a Crumbling World

Synopsis: In the near future, Lera Arabova, a 15-year-old girl living in Vladivostok, finds her world turned upside down when a catastrophic meteor shower devastates her city. With her loved ones in peril and another disaster looming, Lera must act quickly to protect them. But she isn’t entirely alone. Her estranged father, working aboard the orbiting space station “Mira,” becomes her lifeline.

Using satellite phones and surveillance cameras, he guides her every move from the cold reaches of space, desperately trying to reconnect with her while helping her navigate the chaos below. As time runs out, father and daughter must bridge their emotional distance and work together to avert an even greater disaster, turning this survival story into one of love, resilience, and the power of family. Mira is a thrilling sci-fi drama that explores the bond between a father and daughter in the most extraordinary circumstances.

Review: “Mira” offers a fresh perspective on the disaster genre by viewing the apocalypse through the eyes of a child protagonist. The film blends elements of science fiction and disaster cinema to create a unique and visually striking world.

The young actress playing Lera delivers a compelling performance, capturing both the vulnerability and resilience of a child forced to grow up too quickly. Her journey is both physical and emotional, and we see her character evolve as she faces each new challenge.

The film’s special effects are impressive, particularly considering its non-Hollywood budget. The devastated landscapes and futuristic elements are rendered with creativity and attention to detail, creating a believable post-apocalyptic world.

While the pacing can be uneven at times, and some plot points may feel familiar to seasoned sci-fi fans, “Mira” brings enough fresh ideas and heart to stand out in the crowded disaster movie landscape. It’s a thought-provoking and visually engaging film that proves disaster stories can be told from unexpected perspectives.

13. Concrete Utopia (2023): Survival and Morality in a Collapsed Seoul

Synopsis: In the aftermath of a devastating earthquake that levels most of Seoul, the residents of Hwang Gung Apartments find themselves in a unique position – their building is the only one left standing. As resources dwindle and outsiders seek refuge, the survivors must grapple with moral dilemmas and the breakdown of social order. Led by the newly elected resident delegate Young-tak (Lee Byung-hun), the community faces tough decisions that challenge their humanity and reveal the true nature of survival.

Review: “Concrete Utopia” is a gripping exploration of human nature in crisis, masterfully directed by Um Tae-hwa. The film takes the disaster movie genre and infuses it with social commentary and psychological depth, doubling as a psychological thriller at times. It creates a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

The claustrophobic setting of the apartment complex serves as a microcosm of society, allowing the film to explore themes of leadership, community, and the thin line between civilization and chaos. The gradual deterioration of social norms is portrayed with chilling realism, forcing viewers to question what they might do in similar circumstances.

Lee Byung-hun delivers a powerful performance as Young-tak, a complex character whose actions blur the line between protector and tyrant. The ensemble cast, including Park Seo-jun and Park Bo-young, brings depth to their roles, each representing different facets of human response to crisis.

The film’s visual style effectively conveys the isolation and desperation of the survivors. The contrast between the relative safety inside the apartment complex and the devastated city outside creates a constant tension that drives the narrative forward.

What sets “Concrete Utopia” apart is its unflinching examination of how quickly societal norms can crumble in the face of scarcity and fear. It’s a disaster movie that’s less about the physical catastrophe and more about the moral and ethical disasters that follow.

While the pacing can be slow at times, the building tension and moral quandaries keep the audience engaged throughout. “Concrete Utopia” is a standout in the disaster genre, offering a uniquely Korean perspective on survival and social collapse that resonates universally. It is, without a doubt, one of South Korea’s best 

14. World War Z (2013): Zombie Apocalypse on a Global Scale

Synopsis: In this sci-fi horror thriller, former UN investigator Gerry Lane (Brad Pitt) is thrust back into action when a mysterious pandemic turns people into rabid, fast-moving zombies. As cities fall and governments crumble due to the relentless zombie attack, Lane embarks on a globe-trotting mission to find the source of the outbreak and a possible cure. With time running out and the infected multiplying exponentially, Lane must use all his skills and resourcefulness to save his family and potentially all of humanity.

Review: As the curator of a horror blog, I would be remiss if I didn’t include an entry in the sci-fi/horror genre. While I couldn’t find a good alien invasion disaster film on Netflix, (a la Independence Day or the Cloverfield Paradox) “World War Z” serves as an excellent stand-in with its zombie apocalypse scenario, and as a science fiction film in general. Although many of my peers disliked this movie, I found its frenetic pace and blazing bloody action intense and viscerally appealing.

“World War Z” stands out in the crowded zombie genre by taking a global approach to the outbreak. Director Marc Forster crafts a series of set pieces that showcase how different parts of the world might react to such a crisis, from the chaotic streets of Philadelphia to the walled city of Jerusalem. This international scope gives the film a sense of scale rarely seen in zombie movies.

Brad Pitt brings a grounded presence to Gerry Lane, making him a relatable protagonist amidst the chaos. His performance helps anchor the more outlandish elements of the plot, keeping the audience invested in his journey.

The zombies themselves are a terrifying new take on the classic monster. Their speed and swarming behavior create genuinely heart-pounding sequences, particularly the Jerusalem wall breach, which is a standout moment of horror spectacle.

While the film deviates significantly from its source material (Max Brooks’ novel of the same name), it succeeds in creating its own unique vision of a world overrun by the undead. The final act, set in a World Health Organization facility, ratchets up the tension with a more claustrophobic approach that contrasts effectively with the earlier large-scale sequences.

“World War Z” may only be a good movie and not a perfect film, but its ambitious scope, relentless pacing, and creative take on zombie lore make it a thrilling addition to both the disaster and horror genres. It’s one of the plethora of sci-fi thrillers on Netflix that isn’t afraid to bare its teeth, offering a bloody, action-packed ride through a world on the brink of collapse.

Wrapping Up: A Disaster for Every Mood

There’s no doubt that Netflix offers a smorgasbord of disaster delights to satisfy your apocalyptic cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for big-budget spectacles like “2012” and “San Andreas,” or prefer more intimate, character-driven stories like “The Wave” and “Society of the Snow,” there’s something for every disaster movie fan, and hopefully I’ve highlighted the best of the best.

Did we miss your favorite disaster flick, though? If we did, we’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below sharing your top picks for catastrophe cinema. And don’t forget to subscribe to our Newsletter of Darkness below for more thrilling horror and Ragnarok content delivered straight to your very own inbox of darkness. 

Oh, and before I forget, if you’re in the mood for more horror movie lists, check out our articles on The Best Dystopian Movies, The Best Japanese Horror Movies and The Best Witch Movies on Netflix. Hopefully you’ll like ’em.

Thanks for reading, and stay safe out there, fear fans.