Loved The Abyss: Explore 8 Thriller Movies Just Like It

In the gripping 2023 Swedish action thriller, ‘Abyss,’ directed by Richard Holm, the talented cast, including Tuva Novotny, Kardo Razzazi, and Felicia Maxime, brings the intense plot to life. Novotny’s character, Frigga, faces a daunting challenge as she strives to maintain a precarious equilibrium between her role as a security manager in the Kiirunavaara mine and her family responsibilities. The tension escalates when her city begins to crumble into the depths of the mine, thrusting Frigga into a harrowing battle for survival, where she must confront not only the perils of her job but also the imminent danger to the lives of her loved ones. If you were enthralled by the dynamic fusion of action and suspense in ‘The Abyss’ and find yourself craving more films adept at navigating intense plots and perilous scenarios, here are 8 movies like ‘The Abyss‘ that warrant your attention.

8. Aftershock (2012)

Directed by Nicolás López and co-written and produced by Eli Roth, ‘Aftershock’ is a disaster thriller that features Roth, Andrea Osvárt, and Ariel Levy in starring roles. The film revolves around a group of tourists who undergo a harrowing experience when a catastrophic earthquake strikes Chile. The aftermath involves not only the physical destruction but also the difficult challenges they face in a lawless and chaotic environment. Drawing parallels with ‘The Abyss,’ both movies share a theme of survival against overwhelming odds. While ‘The Abyss’ explores underwater danger, ‘Aftershock’ intensifies the tension with a natural disaster, highlighting the human struggle for survival in extreme circumstances.

7. The Quake (2018)

In the seismic drama ‘The Quake,’ directed by John Andreas Andersen, the storyline revolves around geologist Kristian Eikjord (Kristoffer Joner). Serving as a sequel to ‘The Wave,’ the film paints a picture of Kristian’s race against time to forewarn Oslo of an imminent earthquake and as the narrative unfolds, urban landscapes crumble. Contrasting with the aquatic perils of ‘The Abyss,’ ‘The Quake’ immerses audiences in the terrestrial realm, delving into the vulnerability of modern cities confronting the brutal forces of nature. Through riveting sequences of destruction, the film explores the intricate dance between man and Earth, echoing the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit amid seismic upheaval.

6. Destruction Los Angeles (2017)

In the cinematic chaos of ‘Destruction Los Angeles,’ helmed by Tibor Takács, the narrative unfolds in a relentless pursuit of survival amidst urban devastation. Starring Craig Sheffer, the film follows the harrowing journey of an ex-cop navigating the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake that rocks Los Angeles. As familiar landscapes crumble, the protagonist battles not only the physical destruction but also the societal breakdown that ensues. Like ‘The Abyss,’ ‘Destruction Los Angeles’ thrusts viewers into the heart of a city that is falling apart, emphasizing the raw, gritty struggle for existence in the face of relentless disaster.

5. Megafault (2009)

‘Megafault’ shares thematic resonance with ‘The Abyss’ through its exploration of natural disasters and the consequential struggle for survival. Directed by David Michael Latt, ‘Megafault’ unfolds as a disaster film where seismic activities trigger catastrophic events that wreck up civil unrest and chaos and everything in between. Brittany Murphy takes on the lead role as Dr. Amy Lane, a seismologist racing against time to prevent a massive earthquake from tearing apart the American Midwest. Co-starring Eriq La Salle and Bruce Davison, the film amplifies tension as characters navigate the chaos, echoing the perilous scenarios faced in ‘The Abyss.’ Both films engage viewers with the unpredictable forces of nature, showcasing humanity’s resilience in the wake of catastrophic events.

4. The Impossible (2012)

In ‘The Impossible,’ directed by J.A. Bayona, thematic parallels with ‘The Abyss’ emerge through their shared exploration of human resilience amidst overwhelming adversity. The film recounts the true story of a family’s struggle for survival in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Naomi Watts delivers a powerful performance as Maria, alongside Ewan McGregor as Henry, portraying the family’s relentless quest to reunite amidst the chaos. Through stunning visuals and heartfelt performances, ‘The Impossible’ captures the sheer magnitude of the disaster, echoing the themes of survival and perseverance seen in ‘The Abyss.’

3. Daylight (1996)

In the riveting disaster film ‘Daylight,’ directed by Rob Cohen, thematic echoes with ‘The Abyss’ resonate as both narratives tap into the precarious dance between humanity and cataclysmic events. Starring Sylvester Stallone as former EMS chief Kit Latura, the film unfolds as a group of survivors navigates a perilous tunnel collapse beneath the Hudson River. Akin to the struggles seen in ‘The Abyss,’ ‘Daylight’ thrusts audiences into the claustrophobic depths of a collapsed tunnel, testing the characters’ mettle and unity in the face of impending doom. Cohen’s expert direction and Stallone’s portrayal intensify the narrative, offering a distinct yet compelling perspective on survival amidst catastrophic circumstances.

2. San Andreas (2015)

In ‘San Andreas,’ directed by Brad Peyton, thematic threads converge with ‘The Abyss’ through their shared exploration of humanity grappling with catastrophic forces. The film follows Dwayne Johnson’s rescue pilot Ray Gaines as he strives to save his family amid the devastating aftermath of a massive earthquake along the San Andreas Fault. Carla Gugino portrays Emma, Ray’s estranged wife and Alexandra Daddario takes on the role of their resourceful daughter, Blake. With respect to the setting of ‘The Abyss,’ ‘San Andreas’ unfolds against the sprawling backdrop of California’s crumbling landscapes, weaving a tale of family, survival, and the relentless pursuit of safety in the face of unyielding natural forces. Peyton’s direction and the charismatic performances of the cast elevate the disaster genre, delivering a visually stunning and emotionally charged narrative reminiscent of the resilience witnessed in ‘The Abyss.’

1. Dante’s Peak (1997)

For fans of ‘The Abyss,’ ‘Dante’s Peak’ is a must-watch due to its exploration of perilous environments and the human struggle for survival in the face of adversity. Directed by Roger Donaldson, the film immerses viewers in the heart of a volcanic disaster, echoing the tense atmosphere and high-stakes drama found in ‘The Abyss.’ Pierce Brosnan stars as volcanologist Harry Dalton, who races against time to save a small town threatened by an impending eruption. Linda Hamilton portrays Rachel Wando, the town’s mayor, adding depth to the narrative as characters navigate the chaos. With stunning visuals and intense action sequences, ‘Dante’s Peak’ captivates audiences, delivering an exhilarating cinematic experience reminiscent of the tension and excitement of ‘The Abyss.’