10 Movies and Shows Like Final Destination (2000)

Description: Wes Craven's classic shares with 'Final Destination' the theme of inescapable death, though through supernatural means rather than fate. Both films feature creative death sequences and the idea that characters cannot escape their doom through normal means. The dream world of 'Elm Street' creates a similar sense of unavoidable danger as death's design in 'Final Destination'.

Fact: Freddy Krueger was inspired by real-life news stories about mysterious deaths during sleep. The film launched Johnny Depp's acting career. The infamous blood geyser effect was created using a rotating room and 500 gallons of fake blood.

Description: While not a horror film in the traditional sense, 'The Butterfly Effect' shares 'Final Destination's' theme of characters attempting to alter fate with disastrous consequences. Both films explore the idea that some events are inevitable, and trying to change them often leads to worse outcomes. The films also share a dark tone and focus on the ripple effects of small actions.

Fact: There are multiple endings to the film, with the theatrical version being the darkest. Ashton Kutcher took the role seriously, refusing to do his usual comedic schtick. The film's title refers to the chaos theory concept that small changes can have large effects.

Description: As a direct sequel to 'Final Destination' (2000), 'Final Destination 2' follows the same formula of characters cheating death only to be hunted down by it in elaborate, Rube Goldberg-like sequences. The film expands on the original's themes of fate and inevitability, with death's design becoming even more intricate and unpredictable.

Fact: The opening highway pile-up scene is considered one of the most intense and well-executed sequences in the franchise. The film introduces the concept of 'new life' disrupting death's design, adding a layer of complexity to the series' mythology. Tony Todd reprises his role as the mysterious coroner Bludworth, offering cryptic warnings to the survivors.

Description: While more focused on moral dilemmas than fate, 'Saw' shares with 'Final Destination' the concept of elaborate, almost mechanical death sequences. Both films feature characters trapped in situations where death seems inevitable, though 'Saw' adds a layer of choice to its traps. The films also share a dark, gritty aesthetic and shocking twists.

Fact: The film was shot in just 18 days on a minimal budget. The iconic reverse bear trap was actually functional, though never used on an actor. Leigh Whannell and James Wan created a short film to pitch the concept, which helped secure funding.

Description: 'Final Destination 3' continues the franchise's tradition of creative death sequences and the theme of characters trying to outwit death. The film uses a roller coaster accident as its inciting incident, maintaining the series' focus on everyday scenarios turned deadly. The storytelling remains centered on premonitions and the inevitability of death.

Fact: The film was originally shot in 3D, with certain death sequences designed to maximize the effect. The DVD release included an interactive feature allowing viewers to choose the order of death sequences. Mary Elizabeth Winstead's performance as the lead helped elevate her career in the horror genre.

Description: This fourth installment in the franchise stays true to the core concept of 'Final Destination' with its elaborate death sequences and the theme of escaping fate. The film pushes the boundaries of the series' signature death scenes, often incorporating more CGI and larger-scale disasters.

Fact: It was the first film in the series to be released in 3D. The movie's title was initially just 'Final Destination', but was changed to avoid confusion with the original. The racetrack disaster sequence was inspired by real-life NASCAR accidents.

Description: This meta-horror film shares with 'Final Destination' the concept of characters being manipulated into elaborate death scenarios by unseen forces. Both films deconstruct horror tropes, though 'Cabin' does so more overtly. The idea of a larger system orchestrating deaths connects to 'Final Destination's' concept of death's design.

Fact: The film was delayed for nearly three years due to studio financial issues. It features cameos from numerous horror icons, including Sigourney Weaver. The script was partially written by Joss Whedon during the 2007-2008 writers' strike.

Description: Considered a return to form for the franchise, 'Final Destination 5' features some of the most inventive death sequences in the series. It cleverly ties back to the original film, creating a full-circle narrative that reinforces the inescapable nature of death. The film maintains the series' blend of horror and dark humor.

Fact: The bridge collapse sequence was praised for its realistic effects and tension-building. The film's twist ending connects directly to the events of the first 'Final Destination'. It was the first film in the series to receive generally positive reviews from critics.

Description: 'Oculus' shares with 'Final Destination' the theme of inevitable doom, though through supernatural rather than mechanical means. Both films create tension through the anticipation of horrific events, with characters trying and failing to outsmart their fate. The films also share a focus on psychological horror and the breakdown of reality.

Fact: The film is based on Mike Flanagan's 2006 short film of the same name. Karen Gillan shaved her head for the role, which she later used for her 'Guardians of the Galaxy' audition. The mirror in the film was actually a practical effect, not CGI.

Description: 'Happy Death Day' shares with 'Final Destination' the concept of characters trapped in a cycle of death, though with a more comedic tone. Both films feature protagonists who gain awareness of impending doom and try to prevent it, only to face death in increasingly creative ways. The time loop mechanic adds a similar sense of inevitability to the deaths.

Fact: The film blends elements of horror, comedy, and Groundhog Day-style time loops. Jessica Rothe's performance was widely praised for balancing humor and terror. The baby mask worn by the killer became an iconic horror image.