30 Movies for the End of the World: Part 1
If you’re like me, you’re in lockdown for the next 30 days (possibly more) and you’re running out of things to do, and entertainment to stream. So here’s what I suggest.
Get together with your friends, virtually, and watch some movies. Not just any movies, though. Movies about the end of the world, or some variation, because now is the time.
For the record, I don’t think this is the end of the world, but it’s definitely weird out there. And as humans, we love thematic movies… Why do you think Jason, Freddy & Michael Myers movies get serious play around Halloween? Ever watched ‘A Christmas Story’ in July? Trust me, it sucks. It’s like being the guy on halloween who is dressed as “a regular guy from the office.”
That guy sucks just as much as a seasonal movie out of season, if not more. And right now… it’s apocalypse season baby!
To make the virtual thing easier, check out Netflix Party, Google Hangouts, & Zoom. It’s easier than you think to get any of these working, and your friends will all get on board, because well, they don’t have a choice or anything else to do – 2 very powerful motivating circumstances.
I plan on giving you 30, but that’s a lot to write in one post. So rather I’m going to give you 3 standalone lists of 10. And with that said, here’s the first list of 10:
- Outbreak — This one is great because it’s right on the nose. Plus there’s a happy ending. And watching Morgan Freeman feels like a warm hug, which we could all use right now.
- 28 Days Later — Are we headed into the zombie apocalypse? It’s not outside the realm of possibility. And this movie is essentially a how-to guide and what-to-expect rolled into one. It’s definitely heavy but not totally bleak, and it’s a great movie.
- Shaun of the Dead — Last night was heavy, so for day 3 I think it’s best we gather a cricket bat, all our chums, and head to the Winchester for a pint, wouldn’t you agree?
- World War Z — Gotta get some Brad Pitt in there early to remind you that you can always count on the giftedly handsome to save us from virally-infected world population.
- Seeking A Friend for the End of the World — I saw this movie many years ago and all I can remember is that I laughed, I cried, and everyone at the restaurant was on ecstasy. Definitely some nice romantic comedy relief.
- The Day After Tomorrow — Don’t forget about climate change people! We’re still screwed once this pandemic thing is over. The anxiety never ends! But if this movie has a lesson, it’s that Jake Gyllenhaal can keep us safe from anything.
- Left Behind — I think 7 days in is about the right time to get way too high for your own good and watch a movie about the Rapture, starring Boner’s friend from Growing Pains. (Acceptable substitution movie: This is the End)
- Apocalypto — This felt like a good segue given Mel Gibson’s penchant for devout Christianity, however in no way does this movie preach anything about religion. It’s like watching a historically accurate account of the life during the time of the Mayans, and my God will it make you feel like things are pretty great right now.
- Waterworld —I’m sorry but there’s nothing better than Kevin Costner using his manfish body as giant fish bait. This movie got a ton of sh*t when it came out for being over budget, but if you ask me: worth. every. penny.
- 28 Weeks Later — Wondering how jolly old London is doing with that virus from 28 Days Later? Well, it’s not as back-to-normal as you’d think. Wonder no more and get some closure with this outstanding sequel to 28 Days Later.
That’s it for this list. 2 more to come. Stay tuned and tell all your friends about this list you found, then enjoy the watching party.