The 5 Best Earthquake Movies of All Time, Ranked

While disaster films have long graced the cinematic landscape, the subcategory of earthquake movies often goes unnoticed. Frequently showcasing spectacular effects, films like "2012" and "The Day After Tomorrow" initiate their stories with a catastrophic event that unleashes various natural disasters, such as floods and fires.

However, fewer films specifically focus on earthquakes caused by tectonic plate shifts and their dire aftermath. Here, we reflect on some of the most intense and haunting earthquake films, emphasizing those grounded in reality. Below are the five best earthquake movies, ranked.

5. Earthquake (1974)

The 1970s marked the golden era of disaster films, best exemplified by "Earthquake". This epic tells the intertwined tales of several Los Angeles residents grappling with a massive earthquake's aftermath. Featuring stars like Charlton Heston and Ava Gardner, the film exceeds simple FX-driven spectacles, blending captivating visuals with potent character development.

Directed by Mark Robson, "Earthquake" ranks just behind iconic titles like "Airport" and "The Towering Inferno". The harrowing depiction of Los Angeles’s destruction from the quake is riveting. Performances from supporting actors such as Walter Matthau and George Kennedy elevate the dramatic tension.

4. The Quake (2018)

Directed by John Andreas Anderson, "The Quake" serves as a gripping sequel to "The Wave". This film follows geologist Kristian, played by Kristoffer Joner, as he investigates a historical 1904 earthquake in Oslo, aiming to foresee future disasters. His findings predict a massive 8.5 earthquake, sending scientists scrambling to avert catastrophe.

The plot builds gradually, culminating in an exhilarating finale that tests viewers' nerves. While "The Quake" stands strong, the emotional depth, stemming from Kristian’s redemptive journey, solidifies its identity as an outstanding earthquake film.

3. Suzume (2022)

From the talented Makoto Shinkai, "Suzume" stands out as one of the most relevant earthquake movies. The film follows Suzume, a 17-year-old girl who teams up with a mysterious stranger, Souta. Their mission is to stop a supernatural force known as the Colossal, which creates devastating earthquakes across Japan.

The stunning animation blended with heartfelt storytelling forms a poignant coming-of-age journey. The tale deals profoundly with themes of loss, grief, and hopes for family, resonating with audiences of all ages. "Suzume" transcends typical narrative boundaries, creating a powerful dialogue about resilience in adversity.

2. And Life Goes On (1992)

"And Life Goes On", directed by Abbas Kiarostami, presents a unique take on the disaster genre. This quasi-fictional Iranian tale follows a famous director, played by Farhad Kheradmand, as he revisits the Guilan region two years after the 1990 earthquake that claimed over 30,000 lives. His quest is to find actors from his earlier film, "Where is the Friend's House?"

Filmed in a stark, documentary style, the movie blurs the lines between fiction and reality. It captures the profound impact of the earthquake on real lives. Garnering a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score, "And Life Goes On" admirably addresses a grave issue without succumbing to sensationalism, illustrating the resilience of the human spirit.

1. The Wind Rises (2013)

"The Wind Rises", directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, loosely portrays the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 in Japan. This biographical drama highlights the life of Jiro Horikoshi, a pioneering aeronautical engineer who emerges in a transformed world post-earthquake.

Miyazaki artfully weaves elements of fantasy and history, creating a stunning visual narrative. The film's captivating story enriches viewers' understanding of Japan's history and Jiro's quest, culminating in one of the most celebrated journeys in animation.

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