Against The Odds: A Selection Of Survival Movies You Should Watch!

In the chilling recount of a real-life tragedy, the film takes you back to 1972 when Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 crashed in the Andes Mountains. As the survivors battle the harsh environment, their desperation leads to unthinkable choices. This haunting and authentic portrayal of survival and resilience will grip your emotions. Director J.A. Bayona masterfully captures the human spirit's struggle for life, making it a must-watch for those drawn to harrowing tales of survival.

A father and son try to survive in a desolate post-apocalyptic world after an unspecified event has wiped out most of the living things. As they travel through an unforgiving landscape towards the coast, they face unimaginable horrors and the constant struggle to retain their humanity. Viggo Mortensen delivers a heart-wrenching performance in this fantastic adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s profound novel, that will leave you questioning the true meaning of survival.

In this immersive survival drama, Jodie Comer delivers a compelling performance as a new mother navigating the aftermath of an ecological crisis that submerges London. As she embarks on a perilous journey northward in search of safety, the film, directed by Mahalia Belo, explores the challenges of motherhood amid chaos. Premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023, and adapted from Megan Hunter's novel, the movie delivers a thought-provoking and impactful cinematic experience.

A pregnant woman finds herself trapped in a container in the middle of the sea after trying to escape from a totalitarian government in a crisis-stricken country. Separated from her partner and with the life of her child hanging by a thread, she must summon all her strength to endure the harrowing days ahead. This gripping survival drama stars a powerful performance by Anna Castillo, creating a pulse-pounding experience that showcases the perseverance of the human spirit.

In the Arctic wilderness, a man named Overgård fights for survival after a plane crash. With limited supplies, he battles harsh elements and isolation, waiting for rescue or embarking on a perilous journey. Starring Mads Mikkelsen, Arctic showcases breathtaking cinematography, capturing the raw beauty and brutal realities of the Arctic. Through minimal dialogue, Mikkelsen's powerful performance immerses viewers in Overgård's struggle, exploring themes of resilience and the indomitable human spirit.

A FedEx executive, Chuck Noland, survives a plane crash only to be marooned on a deserted island. Embodying sheer will and survival instinct, Tom Hanks delivers a captivating solo performance that propels viewers into a world of solitude and resilience. A must-see for its meticulous depiction of survival instincts! The absence of musical score for the majority of the film significantly amplifies the sense of isolation, making the experience truly immersive.

Based on a true story, this epic survival drama follows the remarkable journey of Aron Ralston who gets trapped between a slot canyon when a heavy boulder pins his arm to a wall while hiking alone. Portrayed with raw intensity by James Franco, the film skillfully captures the blend of desperation, courage, and determination that drives his struggle for survival, offering a powerful and visceral experience that will leave you breathless.

A Uruguayan rugby team's plane crashes in the unforgiving Andes. Battling freezing temperatures and dwindling supplies, they embark on an extraordinary journey of survival, doing whatever it takes to stay alive. Frank Marshall captures the unyielding and imposing environment with technical proficiency, and the performances are equally incredible.

When an astronaut's mission to evacuate Mars goes awry, he is left behind and faces the daunting challenge of survival. Alone and determined, he sets out to establish a lifeline with Earth, yearning for a chance to be rescued. Experience the suspense and resilience as he uses his ingenuity to overcome insurmountable obstacles and navigate the hostile Martian terrain. This gripping film will keep you on the edge of your seat, highlighting the indomitable human spirit and the unyielding quest for survival.

Based on true events from the 1820s, this film tells the incredible journey of explorer Hugh Glass who, after being attacked by a bear and abandoned by his companions, embarks on a challenging journey in search of revenge. In this epic adventure drama, Leonardo DiCaprio stands alone against the ruthless nature of the cold mountain, the role that won him his first Oscar.

An Olympic runner becomes a WWII airman, surviving a plane crash in the Pacific. Stranded at sea for 47 days, he's captured by the Japanese navy and sent to a POW camp. Facing brutal treatment and horrendous conditions, his resilience never wavers. His indomitable spirit becomes an inspiration for all. Definitely worth a watch, this tale of endurance and hope will keep you on the edge of your seat.

A film based on the true story of a family's survival and reunion in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The movie features incredible performances from Naomi Watts and Tom Holland, with stunning cinematography that captures the devastation and chaos of the disaster. It is perfect if you are looking for a powerful and moving story.

The shocking and thrilling real story of a group of teenagers who got stuck in a flooded cave in Thailand, and the people who planned and executed the extremely complex rescue mission. The case became world famous during the rescue in 2018, and this film features a fictionalized version.