8 Must-See Tsunami Movies That Will Leave You Breathless!

Tsunamis are among the most destructive natural phenomena that can occur along any shoreline. These catastrophic events are often triggered by undersea earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, or meteor collisions that create humongous waves reaching heights of up to several hundred feet. Yet, tsunamis have also captivated and inspired numerous filmmakers who use them as a setting for gripping and emotional narratives. Movies depicting tsunamis offer a blend of nature’s majesty and entertainment, making them compelling viewing experiences. To help you decide which ones to watch, we’ve compiled a list of 8 top movies centered around tsunamis and explained why they are worth your time. Let’s dive in!

1. ‘The Impossible‘ (2012)

Main Topic: In December 2004, Dr. Maria Bennett, along with her husband Henry and their three sons, enjoyed a vacation in Khao Lak, Thailand. On December 26, a devastating tsunami struck the Indian Ocean, splitting up the family. Maria and her son Lucas miraculously survived, and in the process, they rescued a toddler named Daniel. They were both taken to a hospital in Takua Pa. Despite her injuries, Maria motivated Lucas to aid others in finding their families. Henry and the two younger sons managed to survive as well. After ensuring their safety, Henry embarked on a search for Maria and Lucas amidst the debris.

“Watch ‘The Impossible’ if you’re intrigued by a film that presents a genuine account of a family’s ordeal during one of history’s most devastating disasters, giving a glimpse into the early days of such a catastrophe. This movie offers an authentic portrayal of such events, making it worth your time.

2. ‘The Wave’ (2015)

On my last day in the picturesque town of Geiranger, Norway, I, Kristian Eikjord, a seasoned geologist, stumble upon a baffling mystery – the sudden disappearance of groundwater at Åkerneset. Sensing the ominous implications, I urgently return to the local geology center with my former colleague Jacob. Our alarming discovery: snapped sensor wires, casualties of the mountain’s ominous movements. However, my plea for immediate evacuation is met with resistance from my ex-boss Arvid, who is hesitant to disrupt the bustling tourist season. The tension builds as we race against time to warn the townsfolk and prevent a catastrophic disaster.

Why you shouldn‘t miss it: This Norwegian disaster film is a rarity on the international scene, making it a unique gem worth watching. Moreover, similar to its predecessor, it is inspired by the real-life geological danger of a rockslide triggering a tsunami in Norway’s Tafjord. The breathtaking locations only add to its allure! As an added bonus, there’s a sequel titled ‘The Quake’ released three years later, which delves into the aftermath of a devastating earthquake following the events of the original film.

3. ‘Tidal Wave’ (2009)

Overview: ‘Haeundae’ is a South Korean disaster film centered around Kim Hwi, an individual who foresees an impending catastrophe but struggles to persuade the authorities to take action. Despite initial doubts from the authorities about Hwi’s predictions, their skepticism lessens when marine life begins washing ashore in large numbers on the beach. However, they are left scrambling to assess all available evidence related to Hwi’s warnings, as time might already be running out.

Why you should check it out: While ‘Tidal Wave’ may seem similar to other disaster films in terms of theme, it truly shines with its exceptional visual effects. I’d recommend giving it a go.

4. ‘Poseidon’ (2006)

Overview: The movie “Poseidon” (2006) is essentially a modern adaptation of a film released in 1972, itself inspired by a novel. This story unfolds on New Year’s Eve aboard the opulent ocean liner, SS Poseidon. At this moment, the last thing passengers could imagine is disaster. However, the ship’s captain spots an unexpected giant wave that crashes into the ship with such force that it triggers a catastrophic capsizing event.

Why it’s worth watching: The original 1972 film is usually preferable due to the less-than-satisfactory reception of its remake. However, if you’re curious about a more recent take on the book, this version might be for you.

5. ‘Bait‘ (2012)

The coastal town in Queensland, Australia, has been struck by a tsunami, leaving you and a group of others trapped inside a nearby supermarket. While it’s good to know that you’re among the survivors, the downside is that a pack of sharks, drawn by the chaos, are prowling the supermarket in search of food.

‘Bait’ is unique for several reasons. Initially, it doesn’t focus on tsunamis per se, but rather portrays the impact of a tsunami on a coastal town. Secondly, one could categorize it as both a shark film and a disaster movie. Lastly, some might find its unconventional style to be surprisingly entertaining.

6. ‘The 5th Wave’ (2016)

A massive alien spacecraft, piloted by entities called “The Others,” circles our planet. Gradually, they release a sequence of destructive events aimed at wiping out mankind. The first wave disrupts all electronic devices and transportation systems. The second wave triggers earthquakes and tsunamis, leveling coastal cities worldwide. In Ohio, siblings Cassie and Sam manage to survive by moving to higher ground during the flooding of Lake Erie.

What makes ‘The Fifth Wave’ worth watching: While not the main theme, the tsunamis play a significant role in this film, more specifically, the aftermath that follows these catastrophic events. Unlike typical alien invasions depicted in movies, this one uses natural disasters as part of its attack strategy, which is quite uncommon and intriguing.

7. ‘Geostorm’ (2017)

Main Topic: In 2019, a sequence of catastrophic natural disasters led to the development of “Dutch Boy,” a satellite network designed for climate control. Following its successful intervention in a typhoon in Shanghai, Jake Lawson, the primary designer, encountered criticism from a US Senate subcommittee due to unauthorized activation of Dutch Boy. Subsequently replaced by his brother Max, who works under US Secretary of State Leonard Dekkom, the system later malfunctions, causing destructive natural disasters worldwide. Despite appearing as an answer to long-standing issues, “Dutch Boy” eventually behaves erratically.

Here’s why you might want to see ‘Geostorm’: This film explores the potential hazards when people meddle with complex systems like climate control, and the catastrophic results that may follow. While it adheres to the traditional disaster movie structure, it offers a compelling viewing experience due to its intriguing plotline.

8. ‘San Andreas’ (2015)

In essence: Caltech seismologists Dr. Lawrence Hayes and Dr. Kim Park are trialing a novel earthquake forecasting system at Hoover Dam. However, an unforeseen fault line erupts, triggering a 7.1-magnitude earthquake that brings down the dam. Dr. Park bravely gives his life to save a young girl. Realizing that the San Andreas Fault is moving significantly, potentially causing devastating quakes capable of leveling cities along the fault line, Hayes, together with his students Alexi and Phoebe, and reporter Serena Johnson, must work swiftly against the clock to alert California’s residents about the incoming disaster.

You might want to catch this film because it’s primarily an earthquake-themed movie, but it also features a tsunami as a dramatic aftermath. The movie is packed with action sequences, boasts some stunning visuals, and stars Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson in the leading role.

2025-05-26 15:44