After all that fuss in 2012 about the world coming to an end, it turns out it was just a big misunderstanding and the Mayans were pulling our legs all along. Either that, or they just ran out of room to record the rest of their calendar. Despite the momentary lapse from apocalyptic worrying, judgment day still remains a distinct possibility with all the craziness happening in and around the world. Political tensions are constantly high, nuclear deterrent will forever be a constant threat, and there’s a distinct possibility the dead could rise from their graves at any second.
Like many concerns which have plagued society over the years, dystopian futures and apocalyptic scenarios have been a prevalent topic in cinema, reflecting the fears of humanity whilst simultaneously entertaining/thrilling/panicking worldwide audiences. Whilst there are only so many exploding landmarks one can take before it all become incredibly stale (yes 2012, I’m talking to you), there still remains a steady flow of expertly crafted cinema which depicts the end of the world in startlingly moving, cautionary and in some cases, hilarious fashion.
To get you in the mood to see a load of famous actors deal with the apocalypse this weekend when This is the End hits UK cinemas, here is a list of the top 15 films about the end of the world. The list isn’t necessarily ordered by the pure quality of each film, although it does have some bearing, hence why The Day After Tomorrow and Deep Impact don’t make appearances. Did your favourite make the cut? Read on to find out.
15. Shaun of the Dead (2005)
Apocalyptic Classification: Funny zombies.
With Shaun of the Dead, Edgar Wright took the loosely established ZomCom sub-genre and gave it a pulse, or a lack of one to be precise. A bloody original comedy if ever there was one, Shaun of the Dead tears the jugular from both the comedy and horror genres, ensuring the thoroughly British cast retain their harmless lack of urgency in the face of impending doom. Thanks to Wright, going down to The Winchester, grabbing a nice cold pint and waiting for the whole thing to blow over is a legitimate option in the event of a zombie apocalypse.
14. Escape From New York (1981)
Apocalyptic Classification: Snake Plissken doesn’t give a f**k about apocalyptic classifications… or this list.
Set in 1997, which turned out to be a whole lot different than Carpenter imagined, the world is completely swamped by lawlessness and corruption. After the US President crash lands in Manhattan, which has been transformed into a maximum security prison to harbour criminals, ex-bank robber Snake Plissken is sent in to save the day and kick some ass. Escape From New York isn’t a scathing social commentary, but who said dystopian films need to be? Its pure entertainment and one of John Carpenter’s finest hours with Kurt Russell.
13. The Matrix (1999)
Apocalyptic Classification: Ironic machines, conflicting realities and Hugo Weaving.
Technological advances have informed a great deal of our apocalyptic fears, shifting the paranoia from the xenophobia of the 50s to our lack of control in the modern age. Impactful sci-fi blockbuster The Matrix brushes the surface of metaphysical theology in its exploration of free will and how humanity is slowly becoming a slave to technology; a horrifying prospect which is edging closely towards reality. Serious business aside, The Matrix deserves a place on the list just for the immortal line, ‘I know Kung Fu’ . It’s completely irrelevant to the impending machine apocalypse, but honestly, who cares?
12. Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981)
Apocalypse Classification: Desert dystopia with modified motors.
Arguably the most renowned instance of an original being surpassed by its sequel, Mad Max 2 is an intelligent film with a thing for vehicular destruction. Steering itself away from the usually more subdued realms of post-apocalyptic cinema, George Miller’s influential action-packed thriller has become a benchmark for all car chases, stunts and other such madness since. The simplistic exploration of a tribal society fighting for valuable resources is both exhilarating and engaging, especially with a slightly less insane Mel Gibson at the wheel with Bruce Spence.
11. Planet of the Apes (1968)
Apocalyptic Classification: Death by monkeys! Ook ook ook!
Released during a transitional period for Hollywood, which was trying to establish a new identity following the collapse of the studio system, Plant of the Apes is a rare breed of film. Blending blockbuster action with usually unrelated depth, this seminal sci-fi classic features some of the most enduring imagery and memorable dialogue in mainstream cinema. As Planet of the Apes reaches its unforgettably breathtaking climax, the satirical portrait of humanity comes full circle, concluding a stinging social commentary which doesn’t compromise the thoroughly entertaining story and action.
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