The underground world of the metro system has always been a fertile ground for cinematic storytelling, especially when it comes to disaster films. These movies take us on a rollercoaster of emotions, from the claustrophobic tension of being trapped underground to the sheer terror of facing unexpected calamities. This curated list of 10 disaster films set in the metro not only offers a thrilling escape but also provides a unique perspective on human resilience and survival instincts in the face of adversity. Whether you're a fan of action, suspense, or just love a good old-fashioned disaster flick, this collection is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: This classic thriller involves a group of criminals who hijack a New York City subway train, demanding a ransom. The film's intense atmosphere and the portrayal of the subway system as a battleground make it a quintessential metro disaster movie.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Denzel Washington and John Travolta, but the original remains a cult classic.


Subway (1985)
Description: A French film where a man takes refuge in the Paris Métro after a heist goes wrong. While not a traditional disaster movie, the film's setting and the chaos that ensues make it a fitting inclusion.
Fact: The film features a memorable soundtrack by Eric Serra, which adds to its cult status.


Creep (2004)
Description: This British horror film follows a woman who becomes trapped in a London Underground station with a mysterious, menacing figure. It's a perfect blend of psychological horror and disaster elements, making it a unique addition to this list.
Fact: The film was shot in real, abandoned stations of the London Underground, adding to its eerie authenticity.


The Midnight Meat Train (2008)
Description: Based on a Clive Barker story, this film follows a photographer who discovers a serial killer preying on subway riders. The subway setting amplifies the horror and disaster elements of the narrative.
Fact: The film was produced by Clive Barker himself, ensuring a faithful adaptation of his original story.


The Commuter (2018)
Description: Liam Neeson stars as an ex-cop turned insurance salesman who gets embroiled in a criminal conspiracy during his daily commute on a train. While not strictly a metro disaster, the film captures the chaos and tension of a public transport system in crisis.
Fact: The film was shot on the Metro-North Railroad, which serves as a stand-in for a typical commuter rail system.


The Incident (1967)
Description: This film captures the tension of two hoodlums terrorizing passengers on a New York City subway train, leading to a series of escalating events. It's a study in human behavior under extreme stress, making it a compelling watch.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in the New York City subway system.


The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)
Description: A remake of the 1974 classic, this film updates the story for modern audiences with high-tech elements and a more action-oriented approach. It's a thrilling ride through the New York subway system.
Fact: The film was shot on location in New York City, using real subway trains and stations.


The Tunnel (2011)
Description: An Australian found-footage horror film where a journalist investigates the abandoned rail tunnels beneath Sydney, only to uncover something sinister. It's a chilling take on the disaster theme, focusing on the unknown dangers lurking in the metro.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life urban legends about the abandoned rail tunnels in Sydney.


The Tunnel (2011)
Description: Another film with the same title, this one is a German thriller about a group of people trying to escape East Berlin through a tunnel under the Berlin Wall. The claustrophobic setting and the tension of the escape make it a gripping watch.
Fact: The film is based on real events during the Cold War.


The Underground (1995)
Description: A Serbian film that, while not strictly a disaster movie, uses the metaphor of an underground world to explore themes of survival and chaos during wartime. Its setting in a metro system adds a unique layer to the narrative.
Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
