This curated collection of horror films delves into the chaos and fear that riots can unleash. Each film uses the backdrop of civil unrest to explore themes of societal breakdown, human nature, and survival, providing not only a thrilling cinematic experience but also a deeper look into the psyche of individuals and societies under extreme pressure. From classic tales to modern takes, these films offer a chilling perspective on the darker side of human behavior when order collapses.

The Omega Man (1971)
Description: In this post-apocalyptic setting, riots and societal collapse are the backdrop as the last man on Earth fights against a group of mutants, showcasing the horror of isolation and survival.
Fact: The film is a loose adaptation of Richard Matheson's novel "I Am Legend."


Escape from New York (1981)
Description: In a dystopian future where Manhattan has become a maximum-security prison, riots and gang warfare are the norm, creating a terrifying landscape for the protagonist to navigate.
Fact: The film's concept was inspired by the prison riots of the 1970s.


The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: After waking from a coma with psychic abilities, Johnny Smith sees visions of a future where riots and chaos reign if a certain politician comes to power, leading to his desperate attempts to prevent this future.
Fact: The film was based on Stephen King's novel of the same name.


The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, the apocalyptic weather events lead to societal collapse and riots, showcasing the horror of nature's wrath and human desperation.
Fact: The film's depiction of weather phenomena was criticized by scientists for its inaccuracies.


The Crazies (2010)
Description: A small town descends into chaos when a biological weapon causes its residents to go insane, leading to riots and violent confrontations as the military tries to contain the outbreak.
Fact: The film is a remake of George A. Romero's 1973 film of the same name.


28 Weeks Later (2007)
Description: Following the events of "28 Days Later," the sequel shows the aftermath of the Rage virus, with riots and military intervention creating a terrifying environment for survivors.
Fact: The film was shot in London, with many scenes filmed in real locations to enhance the realism.


The Mist (2007)
Description: While primarily about a supernatural fog, the film's setting in a supermarket during a riot-like situation captures the horror of human behavior under stress and fear.
Fact: The film's ending was changed from Stephen King's novella, which King himself praised.


The Divide (2011)
Description: After a nuclear explosion, a group of survivors barricade themselves in a basement, leading to internal riots and psychological horror as they struggle to survive.
Fact: The film was shot in a real basement in New York City to give an authentic feel to the setting.


The Purge: Election Year (2016)
Description: In this third installment of the Purge series, riots break out as the annual event of legalized crime becomes a political tool, leading to a night of terror for the characters involved in the resistance against it.
Fact: The film was originally planned to be released in 2015 but was delayed due to the real-life political climate in the U.S.


The Road (2009)
Description: This film, while not explicitly about riots, captures the essence of societal collapse and the horrors of survival in a post-apocalyptic world where lawlessness prevails.
Fact: The film was adapted from Cormac McCarthy's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.
