There's something undeniably captivating about the idea of cities being swallowed by water. Whether it's a natural disaster or a man-made catastrophe, these films explore the resilience of humanity against the relentless force of water. From thrilling action to poignant drama, this curated list offers a diverse look at how filmmakers have envisioned the world when the floodgates open. Each film brings its unique perspective, making this collection a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the interplay between nature and civilisation.

Waterworld (1995)
Description: Set in a future where the polar ice caps have melted, this film presents a world where dry land is a myth, and humanity struggles to survive on floating cities.
Fact: It was one of the most expensive films ever made at the time, with a budget of $175 million. Kevin Costner, who stars as the Mariner, also co-produced the film.


Deep Impact (1998)
Description: While primarily about a comet strike, the aftermath includes massive tsunamis that flood coastal cities, showcasing the aftermath of such a cataclysmic event.
Fact: The film was released the same year as "Armageddon," leading to comparisons between the two comet/asteroid disaster movies. It features a diverse cast, including Morgan Freeman as the President of the United States.


The Perfect Storm (2000)
Description: Based on a true story, this film depicts the harrowing journey of a fishing boat caught in a massive storm, leading to flooding and the ultimate test of survival.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Gloucester, Massachusetts, where the real events took place. The storm sequences were created using a combination of practical effects and CGI.


The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: This blockbuster disaster film showcases a series of extreme weather events, including a massive flood that engulfs New York City, highlighting the fragility of modern society.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Coming Global Superstorm" by Art Bell and Whitley Strieber. The iconic scene of the Statue of Liberty being submerged was created using a combination of CGI and a 1:6 scale model.


2012 (2009)
Description: This apocalyptic film features a variety of disasters, including massive floods that engulf cities worldwide, as Earth undergoes a cataclysmic event.
Fact: The film required extensive use of CGI to depict the global destruction. It was one of the first films to use the new Arri Alexa digital camera system.


The Impossible (2012)
Description: Based on the true story of a family caught in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, this film captures the horror and aftermath of a city being flooded by a natural disaster.
Fact: The film was shot in Thailand, where the actual tsunami occurred, and used real locations to recreate the devastation. Naomi Watts received an Academy Award nomination for her role.


The Finest Hours (2016)
Description: This film recounts the true story of the Coast Guard's daring rescue mission during a massive storm that caused a tanker to split in two, flooding the ship and endangering lives.
Fact: The film was shot in Massachusetts and used a combination of real locations and studio sets to recreate the storm conditions. It was Disney's first film to be released in 3D.


The Wave (2015)
Description: A Norwegian disaster film about a geologist who predicts a massive rockslide that will cause a tsunami to flood a fjord town, leading to a race against time to save lives.
Fact: The film is based on the real geological phenomenon known as the Åknes rockslide, which could potentially cause a tsunami in the Geiranger Fjord.


Hard Rain (1998)
Description: A heist movie set during a massive flood in a small town, where armoured cars are the target, and the rising water adds to the tension and chaos.
Fact: The film was shot in a real town that was flooded for the production, creating an authentic setting. It was also one of the first films to use a digital water simulation for some of its effects.


Flood (2007)
Description: London is the setting for this film where a series of catastrophic events lead to the Thames Barrier breaking, flooding the city and testing the resilience of its inhabitants.
Fact: The film was shot in London, with some scenes filmed at the actual Thames Barrier. It features a British cast, including Robert Carlyle and Tom Courtenay.
