The world of cinema often takes us to places we’ve never seen, immersing us in captivating narratives set against the backdrop of stunning, often surreal, locations. Some films, however, venture into the eerie beauty of abandoned and desolate landscapes, creating a unique and hauntingly beautiful cinematic experience.
From post-apocalyptic urban jungles to mysterious, forsaken landscapes, these movies take us on a visual journey like no other.
In this blog, we will delve into a selection of 60 thrilling movies that have been shot in insane, abandoned locations to weave their unforgettable tales.
1. I Am Legend (2007)
Director: Francis Lawrence
Release date: December 14, 2007
Genres: Post-apocalyptic, Action, Drama, Science Fiction, Thriller
Main cast: Will Smith, Alice Braga, Charlie Tahan
Awards/Nominations: Will Smith was nominated for a Saturn Award for Best Actor.
“I Am Legend (2007)” directed by Francis Lawrence, presents a post-apocalyptic narrative revolving around the last man alive in a desolate and abandoned New York City. Will Smith takes on the role of Dr. Robert Neville, a military virologist trying to survive and find a cure for a devastating virus that has ravaged humanity. The film’s eerie atmosphere is amplified by the hauntingly empty and abandoned metropolis, showcasing the struggle for survival in a world devoid of its former bustling life.
2. 28 Days Later (2002)
Director: Danny Boyle
Release date: November 1, 2002
Genres: Post-apocalyptic, Horror, Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Cillian Murphy, Naomie Harris, Christopher Eccleston
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won several awards, including the British Independent Film Award for Best Director.
Danny Boyle’s “28 Days Later (2002)” is a harrowing post-apocalyptic horror film that delves into a world devastated by a deadly virus. Released on November 1, 2002, the movie takes the audience through the desolate and abandoned cityscapes of a post-apocalyptic Britain. Cillian Murphy stars as Jim, awakening from a coma into this nightmare, navigating the haunting remnants of a once thriving society alongside fellow survivors.
3. The Book of Eli (2010)
Director: The Hughes Brothers
Release date: January 15, 2010
Genres: Post-apocalyptic, Action, Adventure, Drama, Thriller
Main cast: Denzel Washington, Gary Oldman, Mila Kunis
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for Best Sound Mixing and Best Sound Editing at the Academy Awards.
“The Book of Eli (2010),” directed by The Hughes Brothers, unfolds in a desolate post-apocalyptic world, where abandoned buildings and cities form the haunting backdrop of the story. Denzel Washington stars as Eli, a lone wanderer on a mission to protect a sacred book that holds the key to humanity’s redemption. Released on January 15, 2010, this film captivates audiences with its atmospheric depiction of a world in ruins.
4. Stalker (1979)
Director: Andrei Tarkovsky
Release date: April 17, 1980 (UK release)
Genres: Science Fiction, Drama
Main cast: Aleksandr Kaidanovsky, Anatoliy Solonitsyn, Nikolay Grinko
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim but did not have a prominent awards presence due to its unique and philosophical nature.
Andrei Tarkovsky’s “Stalker (1979)” is a thought-provoking science fiction film set within a mysterious and abandoned landscape known as “The Zone.” Released in the UK on April 17, 1980, the film follows the journey of a guide, known as a Stalker, leading two clients through this enigmatic and perilous realm. The movie invites contemplation on human desires and the essence of existence amidst the eerie and desolate terrain of “The Zone.”
5. Children of Men (2006)
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Release date: September 22, 2006 (UK)
Genres: Dystopian, Science Fiction, Drama, Thriller
Main cast: Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won several awards, including three BAFTA Awards.
Alfonso Cuarón’s “Children of Men (2006)” is a dystopian masterpiece set in a world grappling with infertility, resulting in a bleak and desolate London. Released in the UK on September 22, 2006, the film showcases a society on the brink of collapse. Clive Owen leads the cast as Theo Faron, embroiled in a perilous journey to protect the first pregnant woman in nearly two decades. The movie’s poignant narrative unfolds amidst the haunting backdrop of a crumbling and abandoned urban landscape.
6. The Last Man on Earth (1964)
Director: Ubaldo Ragona and Sidney Salkow
Release date: March 8, 1964
Genres: Post-apocalyptic, Horror, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Vincent Price, Franca Bettoia, Emma Danieli
Awards/Nominations: The film was well received for Vincent Price’s performance but did not receive major awards.
“The Last Man on Earth (1964),” directed by Ubaldo Ragona and Sidney Salkow, provides a haunting portrayal of the last human survivor in a desolate and abandoned city. Released on March 8, 1964, Vincent Price takes on the lead role of Dr. Robert Morgan, the lone survivor of a global pandemic that has transformed humanity into vampiric creatures. The film immerses the audience in a bleak and deserted urban landscape, illustrating the struggle for survival in a post-apocalyptic world.
7. A Quiet Place (2018)
Director: John Krasinski
Release date: April 3, 2018
Genres: Thriller, Horror, Drama, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Millicent Simmonds, Noah Jupe
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won several awards, including the Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Sci-Fi/Horror Movie.
“A Quiet Place (2018),” directed by John Krasinski, plunges the audience into a post-apocalyptic world where silence is imperative for survival. Released on April 3, 2018, the film unravels the harrowing tale of a family navigating a world overrun by mysterious creatures with an acute sense of hearing. The movie showcases desolate landscapes and abandoned homes, creating a tense and gripping atmosphere that captivated audiences.
8. Resident Evil (2002)
Director: Paul W.S. Anderson
Release date: March 15, 2002
Genres: Horror, Action, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, Eric Mabius
Awards/Nominations: The film was a commercial success and spawned a successful film franchise but did not receive major awards.
“Resident Evil (2002),” directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, brings the video game series to life in a horror film set within a deserted underground laboratory and mansion. Released on March 15, 2002, the movie follows Milla Jovovich as Alice, a character caught in a dangerous experiment amidst the chaos. The film’s eerie setting within abandoned facilities contributes to its suspenseful narrative.
9. World War Z (2013)
Director: Marc Forster
Release date: June 21, 2013
Genres: Thriller, Action, Horror, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Daniella Kertesz
Awards/Nominations: The film was a commercial success and received nominations for visual effects awards.
“World War Z (2013),” directed by Marc Forster, presents a thrilling depiction of a global zombie pandemic, showcasing the chaos and destruction of cities. Released on June 21, 2013, the movie follows Brad Pitt as Gerry Lane, a former United Nations investigator racing against time to find a way to stop the outbreak. The film’s abandoned and devastated landscapes emphasize the urgency and intensity of the unfolding narrative.
10. The Road (2009)
Director: John Hillcoat
Release date: January 4, 2010 (UK)
Genres: Post-apocalyptic, Drama
Main cast: Viggo Mortensen, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Charlize Theron
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and nominations for various awards, including an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
“The Road (2009),” directed by John Hillcoat, portrays a haunting post-apocalyptic world devastated by an unspecified catastrophe. Released in the UK on January 4, 2010, the film follows the journey of a father and son, played by Viggo Mortensen and Kodi Smit-McPhee, as they traverse a desolate and abandoned environment in search of safety. The film’s somber atmosphere is deeply embedded within its desolate and forsaken landscapes.
11. The Maze Runner (2014)
Director: Wes Ball
Release date: October 10, 2014
Genres: Dystopian, Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Dylan O’Brien, Kaya Scodelario, Thomas Brodie-Sangster
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for Teen Choice Awards and MTV Movie Awards.
“The Maze Runner (2014),” directed by Wes Ball, plunges the audience into a dystopian world where a group of young adults is trapped in a mysterious and abandoned maze. Released on October 10, 2014, the movie follows Thomas, portrayed by Dylan O’Brien, as he navigates the enigmatic maze alongside other trapped individuals. The film’s suspenseful narrative is heightened by the eerie and deserted maze, providing an atmospheric backdrop for this thrilling tale of survival.
12. The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
Director: Colm McCarthy
Release date: September 23, 2016 (UK)
Genres: Post-apocalyptic, Horror, Drama, Thriller
Main cast: Sennia Nanua, Gemma Arterton, Glenn Close
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won several awards at various film festivals.
“The Girl with All the Gifts (2016),” directed by Colm McCarthy, is a post-apocalyptic thriller set in a world ravaged by a fungal infection. Released in the UK on September 23, 2016, the film showcases abandoned urban areas and decaying structures, setting the stage for a gripping narrative. Sennia Nanua stars as Melanie, a young girl with unique abilities, embarking on a perilous journey amidst the desolation.
13. Train to Busan (2016)
Director: Yeon Sang-ho
Release date: July 20, 2016 (South Korea)
Genres: Horror, Action, Thriller, Drama
Main cast: Gong Yoo, Ma Dong-seok, Jung Yu-mi
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won several awards at international film festivals.
“Train to Busan (2016),” a Korean zombie film directed by Yeon Sang-ho, unfolds primarily on a train during a zombie outbreak, illustrating the chaos and isolation of confined spaces. Released on July 20, 2016, the movie provides a harrowing journey through a rapidly deteriorating world. Gong Yoo leads the cast in a struggle for survival amidst the frenzy of a zombie apocalypse.
14. Vanilla Sky (2001)
Director: Cameron Crowe
Release date: January 25, 2002 (UK)
Genres: Psychological thriller, Mystery, Romance, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Tom Cruise, Penélope Cruz, Cameron Diaz
Awards/Nominations: The film received several award nominations for its performances and technical aspects.
“Vanilla Sky (2001),” directed by Cameron Crowe, is a psychological thriller that features a mysterious and deserted Times Square in New York City. Released in the UK on January 25, 2002, the film explores a complex narrative that blurs the lines between reality and dreams. Tom Cruise takes on the role of David Aames, the central character in this enigmatic and surreal tale.
15. Aeon Flux (2005)
Director: Karyn Kusama
Release date: December 2, 2005 (UK)
Genres: Science Fiction, Action, Adventure, Thriller
Main cast: Charlize Theron, Frances McDormand, Sophie Okonedo
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for visual effects and makeup awards.
“Aeon Flux (2005),” directed by Karyn Kusama, is set in a dystopian future featuring abandoned and decayed urban landscapes. Released in the UK on December 2, 2005, the film follows Charlize Theron as Aeon Flux, a skilled assassin caught in a web of intrigue and rebellion. The movie’s visually striking setting enhances the futuristic and action-packed narrative.
16. 12 Monkeys (1995)
Director: Terry Gilliam
Release date: January 5, 1996 (UK)
Genres: Science Fiction, Thriller, Mystery
Main cast: Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and various award nominations, including Academy Award nominations for Brad Pitt and the film’s visual effects.
“12 Monkeys (1995),” directed by Terry Gilliam, is a compelling science fiction film that presents a post-apocalyptic world characterized by abandoned and decaying buildings. Released in the UK on January 5, 1996, the film follows the story of James Cole, portrayed by Bruce Willis, as he navigates a time-travel-driven mission to prevent a global catastrophe. The haunting atmosphere of the abandoned urban landscape heightens the film’s narrative tension.
17. Dawn of the Dead (2004)
Director: Zack Snyder
Release date: March 19, 2004 (USA)
Genres: Horror, Action, Fantasy, Thriller
Main cast: Sarah Polley, Ving Rhames, Jake Weber
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and nominations for various horror and film festival awards.
“Dawn of the Dead (2004),” directed by Zack Snyder, is a gripping horror film set in a shopping mall during a zombie apocalypse, showcasing the isolation and decay of the mall. Released on March 19, 2004, the movie follows a group of survivors as they attempt to navigate and survive amidst the relentless onslaught of zombies. The eerie emptiness of the abandoned mall adds to the film’s intense and suspenseful atmosphere.
18. The Quiet Earth (1985)
Director: Geoff Murphy
Release date: September 7, 1985 (New Zealand)
Genres: Post-apocalyptic, Sci-Fi, Drama
Main cast: Bruno Lawrence, Alison Routledge, Pete Smith
Awards/Nominations: The film won several awards at international film festivals and received critical acclaim.
“The Quiet Earth (1985),” directed by Geoff Murphy, is a post-apocalyptic film that begins with a man waking up to find himself seemingly alone in a world filled with abandoned cities and structures. Released in New Zealand on September 7, 1985, the movie explores themes of isolation and survival as the central character grapples with the desolate world he finds himself in.
19. Snowpiercer (2013)
Director: Bong Joon-ho
Release date: June 20, 2013 (South Korea)
Genres: Dystopian, Sci-Fi, Action, Drama, Thriller
Main cast: Chris Evans, Song Kang-ho, Tilda Swinton
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won several awards at various international film festivals.
“Snowpiercer (2013),” directed by Bong Joon-ho, is a dystopian film set on a perpetually moving train, showcasing a stark contrast between the impoverished, overcrowded rear compartments and the opulent front compartments. Released in South Korea on June 20, 2013, the movie explores themes of class struggle and social inequality against the backdrop of the confined train and its distinct compartments.
20. Chernobyl Diaries (2012)
Director: Bradley Parker
Release date: May 24, 2012 (UK)
Genres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Main cast: Jesse McCartney, Jonathan Sadowski, Olivia Dudley
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations and acclaim within the horror film community.
“Chernobyl Diaries (2012),” directed by Bradley Parker, is a chilling horror film set in Pripyat city near the Chernobyl nuclear disaster site, revealing the eerie and abandoned structures left in the wake of the catastrophe. Released in the UK on May 24, 2012, the movie follows a group of tourists as they venture into the ghost town, uncovering a terrifying secret within the desolate surroundings.
21. Day of the Dead (1985)
Director: George A. Romero
Release date: July 19, 1985 (USA)
Genres: Horror, Thriller
Main cast: Lori Cardille, Terry Alexander, Joseph Pilato
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim within the horror genre.
“Day of the Dead (1985),” directed by George A. Romero, is a horror film set in an underground military bunker during a zombie apocalypse, emphasizing the isolation and claustrophobia within the abandoned facility. Released on July 19, 1985, the movie delves into the psychological struggles of the survivors as they grapple with the nightmarish world outside and the confinement within the bunker.
22. Interstellar (2014)
Director: Christopher Nolan
Release date: November 7, 2014 (UK)
Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Drama
Main cast: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Original Score and Best Production Design.
“Interstellar (2014),” directed by Christopher Nolan, is a thought-provoking science fiction film that portrays a post-apocalyptic Earth where humanity’s survival depends on finding a new habitable planet. Released in the UK on November 7, 2014, the movie explores the vastness of space and the complexities of time, highlighting a world on the brink of abandonment and the desperate quest for a future beyond Earth.
23. The Walking Dead (TV series, 2010)
Director: Various (TV series)
Release date: October 31, 2010 (USA)
Genres: Drama, Horror, Thriller
Main cast: Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Melissa McBride
Awards/Nominations: The TV series has received numerous nominations and awards, including Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Special Visual Effects.
“The Walking Dead” is a highly popular post-apocalyptic television series that follows survivors of a zombie apocalypse, showcasing abandoned cities and structures as they navigate through the decaying world. Premiering on October 31, 2010, the series brings to life the struggles, both internal and external, of individuals and groups trying to survive amidst the chaos and horror of the undead.
24. The Colony (2013)
Director: Jeff Renfroe
Release date: April 12, 2013 (USA)
Genres: Science Fiction, Action, Horror, Thriller
Main cast: Laurence Fishburne, Kevin Zegers, Bill Paxton
Awards/Nominations: The film received recognition within the science fiction and horror film community.
“The Colony (2013),” directed by Jeff Renfroe, is a science fiction horror film set in a future where the Earth has entered a new ice age, showcasing an abandoned underground colony. Released on April 12, 2013, the movie explores the challenges faced by the remaining human population as they battle the elements and an unseen enemy within the forsaken colony.
25. Turbo Kid (2015)
Directors: François Simard, Anouk Whissell, Yoann-Karl Whissell
Release date: August 28, 2015 (USA)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Munro Chambers, Laurence Leboeuf, Michael Ironside
Awards/Nominations: The film received praise for its nostalgic tribute to 1980s action-adventure films.
“Turbo Kid (2015),” directed by François Simard, Anouk Whissell, and Yoann-Karl Whissell, is a post-apocalyptic action-adventure film that showcases a world where a young scavenger discovers the remains of the old world and battles against a tyrannical overlord. Released on August 28, 2015, the movie combines elements of nostalgia, humor, and adventure to create a unique and engaging post-apocalyptic tale.
26. Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (2015)
Director: Wes Ball
Release date: September 10, 2015 (UK)
Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Dylan O’Brien, Kaya Scodelario, Thomas Brodie-Sangster
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for Teen Choice Awards.
“Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (2015)” directed by Wes Ball, is a sequel to “The Maze Runner,” continuing the story of young adults in a post-apocalyptic world. Released in the UK on September 10, 2015, the movie follows their journey as they navigate a desolate, sun-scorched landscape, facing new challenges and uncovering more about the world they live in.
27. Blade Runner (1982)
Director: Ridley Scott
Release date: September 9, 1982 (USA)
Genres: Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and nominations for Academy Awards and BAFTA Awards.
“Blade Runner (1982),” directed by Ridley Scott, is a seminal science fiction film set in a dystopian future, portraying a futuristic and gritty Los Angeles. Released in the USA on September 9, 1982, the movie delves into themes of identity and humanity amidst a backdrop of abandoned and decaying structures.
28. Oblivion (2013)
Director: Joseph Kosinski
Release date: April 10, 2013 (UK)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Tom Cruise, Morgan Freeman, Olga Kurylenko
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for visual effects awards.
“Oblivion (2013),” directed by Joseph Kosinski, is a science fiction film set in a post-apocalyptic Earth, showcasing a desolate and abandoned landscape after an alien invasion. Released in the UK on April 10, 2013, the movie follows Jack Harper, portrayed by Tom Cruise, as he uncovers the truth about Earth’s past.
29. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Director: George Miller
Release date: May 14, 2015 (UK)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Production Design and Best Editing.
“Mad Max: Fury Road (2015),” directed by George Miller, is a post-apocalyptic action film set in a desert wasteland, showcasing a world in chaos with abandoned and desolate landscapes. Released in the UK on May 14, 2015, the movie is an exhilarating ride through a world where survival is paramount.
30. The Day (2011)
Director: Douglas Aarniokoski
Release date: October 28, 2011 (USA)
Genres: Action, Drama, Horror
Main cast: Shawn Ashmore, Ashley Bell, Shannyn Sossamon
Awards/Nominations: The film received recognition within the horror film community.
“The Day (2011),” directed by Douglas Aarniokoski, is a post-apocalyptic film portraying a group of survivors battling for their lives in a world ravaged by a viral outbreak. Released in the USA on October 28, 2011, the movie features abandoned and desolate landscapes that heighten the sense of a world plunged into chaos.
31. The Hunger Games (2012)
Director: Gary Ross
Release date: March 23, 2012 (UK)
Genres: Dystopian, Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and several award nominations, including Academy Award nominations.
“The Hunger Games (2012),” directed by Gary Ross, is a dystopian science fiction film showcasing the contrasting worlds of the opulent Capitol and the desolate, impoverished Districts. Released in the UK on March 23, 2012, the movie follows Katniss Everdeen, portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence, as she fights for survival in a deadly televised competition set in a society grappling with social injustice.
32. The Fifth Element (1997)
Director: Luc Besson
Release date: May 9, 1997 (USA)
Genres: Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
Main cast: Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim for its visuals and costume design.
“The Fifth Element (1997),” directed by Luc Besson, is a science fiction film set in a futuristic and densely populated New York City. Released in the USA on May 9, 1997, the movie features abandoned and crowded urban landscapes, juxtaposing elements of decay with a bustling and vibrant future world.
33. Reign of Fire (2002)
Director: Rob Bowman
Release date: August 2, 2002 (USA)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Main cast: Christian Bale, Matthew McConaughey, Gerard Butler
Awards/Nominations: The film received recognition for its visual effects.
“Reign of Fire (2002),” directed by Rob Bowman, is a post-apocalyptic film set in a world overrun by dragons, depicting the ruins of cities and the struggle for survival in abandoned landscapes. Released in the USA on August 2, 2002, the movie presents a dystopian world where humanity battles the terrifying threat of fire-breathing dragons.
34. I Am Mother (2019)
Director: Grant Sputore
Release date: June 7, 2019 (USA)
Genres: Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Clara Rugaard, Rose Byrne (voice), Hilary Swank
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim for its storytelling and received nominations for various awards.
“I Am Mother (2019),” directed by Grant Sputore, is a science fiction thriller set in a post-apocalyptic world where a robot named “Mother” raises a human child. Released in the USA on June 7, 2019, the movie juxtaposes the desolate and abandoned exterior world with the futuristic and controlled environment created by the robot.
35. The World's End (2013)
Director: Edgar Wright
Release date: July 19, 2013 (UK)
Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Martin Freeman
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim for its humor and direction.
“The World’s End (2013),” directed by Edgar Wright, is a comedy science fiction film portraying a group of friends reuniting for an epic pub crawl during an alien invasion. Released in the UK on July 19, 2013, the movie features an abandoned and chaotic town as the backdrop to the humorous and adventurous story of the characters.
36. Alita: Battle Angel (2019)
Director: Robert Rodriguez
Release date: February 6, 2019 (UK)
Genres: Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
Main cast: Rosa Salazar, Christoph Waltz, Jennifer Connelly
Awards/Nominations: The film was nominated for various visual effects awards.
“Alita: Battle Angel (2019),” directed by Robert Rodriguez, is a science fiction film set in a post-apocalyptic future. Released in the UK on February 6, 2019, the movie portrays a world with both advanced technology and the ruins of a previous civilization. Alita, portrayed by Rosa Salazar, navigates this intriguing and dangerous world as she discovers her true identity.
37. WALL-E (2008)
Director: Andrew Stanton
Release date: July 18, 2008 (USA)
Genres: Animation, Adventure, Family, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin
Awards/Nominations: The film won several Academy Awards and was praised for its animation and themes.
“WALL-E (2008),” directed by Andrew Stanton, is an animated science fiction film set in a future Earth overrun by trash. Released in the USA on July 18, 2008, the movie showcases a world abandoned by humanity and left to waste. The adorable robot WALL-E embarks on a remarkable journey to restore hope to the desolate planet.
38. The Stand (2020 miniseries)
Director: Josh Boone
Release date: December 17, 2020 (USA)
Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Main cast: James Marsden, Amber Heard, Whoopi Goldberg
Awards/Nominations: The miniseries received critical acclaim and nominations for various awards.
“The Stand (2020 miniseries)” is a television adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, portraying a post-apocalyptic world devastated by a deadly virus. Released in the USA on December 17, 2020, the series features deserted cities and landscapes as survivors grapple with the aftermath of the outbreak.
39. A Boy and His Dog (1975)
Director: L.Q. Jones
Release date: November 14, 1975 (USA)
Genres: Comedy, Drama, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Don Johnson, Jason Robards, Susanne Benton
Awards/Nominations: The film won a Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation.
“A Boy and His Dog (1975),” directed by L.Q. Jones, is a post-apocalyptic science fiction film depicting a world ravaged by war and showcasing abandoned and desolate landscapes. Released in the USA on November 14, 1975, the movie follows a young man and his telepathic dog as they navigate the grim realities of this post-apocalyptic world.
40. Chappie (2015)
Director: Neill Blomkamp
Release date: March 6, 2015 (USA)
Genres: Action, Crime, Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Sharlto Copley, Dev Patel, Hugh Jackman
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for various visual effects awards.
“Chappie (2015),” directed by Neill Blomkamp, is a science fiction film set in a crime-ridden future, featuring abandoned industrial areas and a dystopian urban landscape. Released in the USA on March 6, 2015, the movie explores themes of artificial intelligence and society’s reaction to the emergence of consciousness in machines.
41. Divergent (2014)
Director: Neil Burger
Release date: April 4, 2014 (UK)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Kate Winslet
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for several Teen Choice Awards.
“Divergent (2014),” directed by Neil Burger, is a dystopian science fiction film showcasing a society divided into factions. Released in the UK on April 4, 2014, the movie features an abandoned and decaying Chicago as one of the settings, providing a striking backdrop for the story of a young woman challenging societal norms and fighting for her place.
42. The Host (2006)
Director: Bong Joon-ho
Release date: July 27, 2006 (South Korea)
Genres: Action, Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Song Kang-ho, Byun Hee-bong, Park Hae-il
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won several awards at international film festivals.
“The Host (2006),” directed by Bong Joon-ho, is a South Korean monster film set in Seoul. Released in South Korea on July 27, 2006, the movie features an abandoned and contaminated area along the Han River, creating a chilling atmosphere as the characters grapple with the monstrous creature threatening their city.
43. The Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2018)
Director: Wes Ball
Release date: January 26, 2018 (USA)
Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Dylan O’Brien, Kaya Scodelario, Thomas Brodie-Sangster
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for various visual effects awards.
“The Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2018),” directed by Wes Ball, is a continuation of “The Maze Runner” series. Released in the USA on January 26, 2018, the movie features a post-apocalyptic world with deserted landscapes and urban decay, adding to the intensity and suspense of the story.
44. The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Director: Roland Emmerich
Release date: May 28, 2004 (USA)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Emmy Rossum
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for visual effects and sound editing awards.
“The Day After Tomorrow (2004),” directed by Roland Emmerich, is a disaster film portraying extreme climatic events leading to a new ice age. Released in the USA on May 28, 2004, the movie features abandoned and frozen urban landscapes, highlighting the catastrophic impact of climate change.
45. Logan's Run (1976)
Director: Michael Anderson
Release date: June 23, 1976 (USA)
Genres: Action, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Michael York, Jenny Agutter, Richard Jordan
Awards/Nominations: The film received Academy Award nominations for its special effects.
“Logan’s Run (1976),” directed by Michael Anderson, is a science fiction film set in a utopian society where citizens are terminated at a certain age. Released in the USA on June 23, 1976, the movie showcases both the advanced city and the ruins outside, illustrating the contrasting realities of the characters and the world they live in.
46. Waterworld (1995)
Director: Kevin Reynolds
Release date: July 28, 1995 (UK)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Kevin Costner, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Dennis Hopper
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for various technical awards.
“Waterworld (1995),” directed by Kevin Reynolds, is a post-apocalyptic film set in a world covered by water. Released in the UK on July 28, 1995, the movie showcases a unique and submerged environment where the characters navigate a watery landscape in their struggle for survival.
47. The Road Warrior (1981)
Director: George Miller
Release date: July 24, 1981 (USA)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Mel Gibson, Bruce Spence, Michael Preston
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim for its action sequences and design.
“The Road Warrior (1981),” directed by George Miller, is a post-apocalyptic action film featuring a barren wasteland and the struggle for survival in a world where resources are scarce. Released in the USA on July 24, 1981, the movie captivates audiences with its high-octane action and dystopian setting.
48. 28 Weeks Later (2007)
Director: Juan Carlos Fresnadillo
Release date: May 11, 2007 (UK)
Genres: Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Robert Carlyle, Rose Byrne, Jeremy Renner
Awards/Nominations: The film received praise for its intensity and suspense.
“28 Weeks Later (2007),” directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, is a post-apocalyptic horror film and sequel to “28 Days Later,” depicting the aftermath of a deadly virus in London. Released in the UK on May 11, 2007, the movie continues the gripping narrative of the infection’s spread and its impact on the survivors.
49. The Divide (2011)
Director: Xavier Gens
Release date: January 13, 2012 (USA)
Genres: Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Lauren German, Michael Biehn, Milo Ventimiglia
Awards/Nominations: The film was praised for its direction and performances.
“The Divide (2011),” directed by Xavier Gens, is a post-apocalyptic thriller portraying the lives of survivors in a fallout shelter after a nuclear attack. Released in the USA on January 13, 2012, the movie delves into the psychological and social dynamics of individuals trapped in an underground refuge.
50. A Quiet Place Part II (2020)
Director: John Krasinski
Release date: June 3, 2021 (UK)
Genres: Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds, Cillian Murphy
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim for its direction and performances.
“A Quiet Place Part II (2020),” directed by John Krasinski, is a sequel to “A Quiet Place,” continuing the story of a family trying to survive in a world overrun by sound-sensitive creatures. Released in the UK on June 3, 2021, the movie intensifies the suspense and explores the challenges faced by the characters in their quest for safety and survival.
51. The Handmaid's Tale (TV series)
Director: Various
Release date: April 26, 2017 (USA)
Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Elisabeth Moss, Joseph Fiennes, Ann Dowd
Awards/Nominations: The series has received critical acclaim and won several awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.
“The Handmaid’s Tale (TV series)” is a dystopian television series depicting a totalitarian society with a class system and oppressive treatment of women. Premiering in the USA on April 26, 2017, the show immerses viewers in a chilling world where the protagonist, Offred, struggles for survival and freedom in a society marked by cruelty and control.
52. Annihilation (2018)
Director: Alex Garland
Release date: February 23, 2018 (USA)
Genres: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Horror, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Natalie Portman, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Tessa Thompson
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim for its visuals and storytelling.
“Annihilation (2018),” directed by Alex Garland, is a science fiction horror film set in a mysterious and otherworldly zone known as “The Shimmer.” Released in the USA on February 23, 2018, the movie delves into the enigmatic and unnerving phenomena within the zone, captivating the audience with its eerie and mesmerizing narrative.
53. Elysium (2013)
Director: Neill Blomkamp
Release date: August 9, 2013 (USA)
Genres: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for visual effects awards.
“Elysium (2013),” directed by Neill Blomkamp, is a dystopian science fiction film portraying a stark contrast between an opulent space station and a ruined Earth. Released in the USA on August 9, 2013, the movie explores themes of inequality and societal divisions in a visually striking and thought-provoking narrative.
54. Dredd (2012)
Director: Pete Travis
Release date: September 7, 2012 (USA)
Genres: Action, Crime, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Karl Urban, Olivia Thirlby, Lena Headey
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim for its action sequences and visual effects.
“Dredd (2012),” directed by Pete Travis, is a science fiction action film set in a dystopian future, featuring a mega-city with pockets of lawlessness and decay. Released in the USA on September 7, 2012, the movie delivers an intense and gritty portrayal of a law enforcement officer’s struggle for justice in a chaotic urban landscape.
55. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
Director: Doug Liman
Release date: May 30, 2014 (USA)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Bill Paxton
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim for its innovative narrative and visual effects.
“Edge of Tomorrow (2014),” directed by Doug Liman, is a science fiction action film set in a future invaded by extraterrestrial beings, showcasing a world in chaos. Released in the USA on May 30, 2014, the movie captivates audiences with its time-loop concept and thrilling action sequences, providing a unique take on the invasion genre.
56. The Postman (1997)
Director: Kevin Costner
Release date: January 23, 1998 (UK)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Kevin Costner, Will Patton, Larenz Tate
Awards/Nominations: The film received two Razzie Award nominations.
“The Postman (1997),” directed by Kevin Costner, is a post-apocalyptic film following a man who becomes a symbol of hope and revival in a desolate world. Released in the UK on January 23, 1998, the movie explores themes of survival, redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
57. The Handmaid's Tale (1990)
Director: Volker Schlöndorff
Release date: March 20, 1990 (USA)
Genres: Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Natasha Richardson, Faye Dunaway, Robert Duvall
Awards/Nominations: The film received critical acclaim and won several awards.
“The Handmaid’s Tale (1990),” directed by Volker Schlöndorff, is a dystopian drama depicting a society where women have lost their rights and are oppressed. Released in the USA on March 20, 1990, the movie is a thought-provoking exploration of a dark and repressive future.
58. The Matrix (1999)
Directors: The Wachowskis
Release date: June 11, 1999 (UK)
Genres: Action, Sci-Fi
Main cast: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss
Awards/Nominations: The film won four Academy Awards and received critical acclaim for its groundbreaking visual effects.
“The Matrix (1999),” directed by The Wachowskis, is a science fiction film showcasing a dystopian future where reality is simulated by a computer program. Released in the UK on June 11, 1999, the movie revolutionized the sci-fi genre with its innovative storytelling and visual effects.
59. Allegiant (2016)
Director: Robert Schwentke
Release date: March 10, 2016 (UK)
Genres: Action, Adventure, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Jeff Daniels
Awards/Nominations: The film received nominations for various Teen Choice Awards.
“Allegiant (2016),” directed by Robert Schwentke, is a dystopian science fiction film and part of the “Divergent” series, featuring a society beyond the walls of Chicago. Released in the UK on March 10, 2016, the movie delves into themes of identity, rebellion, and the struggle for freedom.
60. Snowpiercer (2020 TV series)
Directors: Various
Release date: May 25, 2020 (USA)
Genres: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main cast: Jennifer Connelly, Daveed Diggs, Mickey Sumner
Awards/Nominations: The TV series received critical acclaim for its direction and performances.
“Snowpiercer (2020 TV series)” is a TV series adaptation of the film, set on a perpetually moving train with a hierarchical society. Premiering in the USA on May 25, 2020, the series offers a compelling narrative exploring class struggles and survival within the confines of a moving microcosm of humanity.
