The 13 Finest Post-Apocalyptic Films

      Here are 12 of the finest post-apocalyptic films we've ever witnessed. We hope to never experience such realities ourselves.

      But First, What Defines a Post-Apocalyptic Movie?

      Terminator 2. Tri-Star Pictures – Credit: C/O

      A post-apocalyptic film is any movie set after the collapse of civilization—whether due to nuclear war, a catastrophic event that nearly wipes out humanity, or another major disaster.

      Post-apocalyptic movies can range from science fiction horror to lighthearted comedies. Many of these films can be entertaining even if they’re not critically acclaimed, while others delve into philosophical themes, serving as tributes to the resilience of the human spirit.

      Regardless, these 12 post-apocalyptic films have a meaningful impact on us.

      The Matrix (1999)

      Warner Bros. – Credit: C/O

      The concept behind The Matrix seems increasingly believable: Robots have created a simulated world to distract humans from reality. (Our only issue with this theory is that if robots are using humans as energy sources, why not rely on electricity instead?)

      With groundbreaking bullet-time effects and a fresh take on Keanu Reeves, The Matrix was groundbreaking. Much of the action remains impressive, and there are entertaining sequences within the simulation.

      One intriguing aspect of The Matrix, as with a few other films on this list, is that it doesn’t straightforwardly announce itself as a post-apocalyptic film. Neo’s initial world appears quite similar to ours.

      12 Monkeys (1995)

      Universal – Credit: C/O

      Transforming an experimental French short film into a successful sci-fi feature is no small feat, but Terry Gilliam succeeded. You might argue, “Sure, but he had Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt!” True, but this was just the start of Pitt’s rise to fame. This film was pivotal in bringing him into the spotlight.

      In 12 Monkeys, a global pandemic has decimated most of the human population. Time travel exists, allowing them to send a prisoner back in time. Importantly, they don’t aim to change the future—this is impossible—they simply wish to limit future deaths.

      Unfortunately, they end up sending Willis’ character back too soon, causing chaos.

      Also Read: The 12 Most Voyeuristic Movies We’ve Ever Watched

      A Quiet Place (2018)

      Paramount – Credit: C/O

      A Quiet Place uniquely centers on a family and emphasizes that children are, essentially, humanity's only hope for the future.

      John Krasinski starred alongside his wife, Emily Blunt, and also directed. This film is the first true horror entry on this list, but horror often pairs well with apocalyptic themes.

      Extraterrestrial beings arrive on Earth with a taste for human flesh. Although their eyesight is nearly non-existent, they possess heightened hearing. To survive, the characters must remain silent. This premise effectively builds tension, and A Quiet Place executes it superbly.

      Children of Men (2006)

      Credit: C/O

      What if the apocalyptic event is gradual and insidious? It’s not a shark tearing you apart; it’s a boa constrictor slowly suffocating you. For twenty years, no babies have been born, causing society to disintegrate. The youngest survivors have become icons. The world is collapsing, teetering on the brink of war.

      Clive Owen portrays a man who is, unsurprisingly, quite cynical. However, he discovers something extraordinary—there is a pregnant woman.

      He becomes determined to protect her and her unborn child, going to great lengths to ensure their safety. Directed by the acclaimed Alfonso Cuarón, Children of Men is a standout cinematic achievement.

      Night of the Comet (1984)

      Credit: C/O

      We thought a cult classic should be part of the list, and Night of the Comet fits the bill. It features Mary Woronov in a supporting role. If that means something to you, it likely indicates you've already watched Night of the Comet or are eager to check it out. The film humorously nods to old sci-fi disaster movies.

      A comet’s pass proves deadly, turning the majority of the population into dust, while some others die slowly, resembling deranged zombies. Fortunately, two Valley girl sisters and a truck driver survive due to solid steel protection.

      They must now navigate survival. Remarkably, Night of the Comet manages to be playful without coming off as overly cheeky. Additionally, Catherine Mary Stewart shines as one of the leads.

      Also Read: 10 Movie Sex Scenes Somebody Should Have Stopped

      WALL-E (2008)

      Credit: C/O

      This film is a triumph of show-don’t-tell storytelling. WALL-E stands out as the gentlest movie on this list. It tells the heartwarming tale of two lonely robots who may hold the key to reviving an abandoned, trash-laden Earth.

      The film opens simply, without dialogue: Humans have left Earth, rendered uninh