10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to The Swarm (2023)

Description: Both 'The Walking Dead' and 'The Swarm' explore societal collapse due to a catastrophic event—zombies in the former, a marine threat in the latter. The focus on human survival, moral dilemmas, and group dynamics under extreme pressure is central to both.

Fact: Based on the comic book series by Robert Kirkman. The show's first episode was directed by Frank Darabont. It became one of the most-watched cable TV shows in history.

Description: Both 'Under the Dome' and 'The Swarm' feature a community cut off from the outside world by an inexplicable phenomenon. They share themes of isolation, resource scarcity, and the emergence of new social hierarchies under crisis conditions.

Fact: Based on Stephen King's novel. The dome's origin was changed from the book for the TV series. It was one of CBS's most-watched summer series during its run.

Description: Similar to 'The Swarm' (2023), 'The Last Ship' explores themes of survival against a global threat—in this case, a deadly virus. Both shows involve scientific efforts to combat the threat and feature high-stakes scenarios where humanity's survival is at stake. The military and scientific collaboration is a key element in both series.

Fact: The show is based on a 1988 novel of the same name by William Brinkley. It was initially planned for a 10-episode season but was expanded due to its popularity. The series features real naval ships and equipment, adding to its authenticity.

Description: Like 'The Swarm,' 'The Strain' deals with a parasitic threat to humanity, blending horror and science fiction. Both shows feature a team of experts trying to contain and understand the threat, with a mix of personal drama and large-scale catastrophe.

Fact: Based on the novel trilogy by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan. Del Toro directed the pilot episode. The show's vampires are biologically based, differing from traditional folklore.

Description: While 'The 100' is set in a post-apocalyptic future, it shares with 'The Swarm' themes of survival, leadership under pressure, and moral ambiguity. Both shows feature young protagonists making difficult decisions in life-or-death situations.

Fact: Based on the book series by Kass Morgan. Initially marketed as a teen drama but evolved into a darker sci-fi series. The show's premise involves survivors returning to Earth after a nuclear apocalypse.

Description: 'Helix' shares with 'The Swarm' a focus on a biological threat—here, a virus that turns people into aggressive, zombie-like creatures. Both series involve a team of scientists racing against time to understand and stop the outbreak, blending horror, sci-fi, and thriller elements.

Fact: The show was created by Cameron Porsandeh, a newcomer at the time. It was filmed in Montreal, Canada, standing in for the Arctic setting. The series was originally conceived as a limited series but was expanded into two seasons.

Description: As a companion to 'The Walking Dead,' this show shares 'The Swarm's' themes of societal breakdown and survival. Both depict the early stages of a global crisis, focusing on how ordinary people cope with extraordinary circumstances.

Fact: Initially set in Los Angeles before moving to Mexico. The first season takes place during the early days of the zombie outbreak. It features a blended family as its central characters.

Description: 'Colony' and 'The Swarm' both depict humanity under threat from a powerful, mysterious force (aliens in 'Colony'). Each explores resistance movements, collaboration vs. opposition, and the psychological impact of living under constant threat.

Fact: Created by Carlton Cuse ('Lost') and Ryan Condal. The show was canceled after three seasons, leaving some plotlines unresolved. It features Josh Holloway ('Lost') in a lead role.

Description: Like 'The Swarm,' 'The Mist' involves a mysterious natural phenomenon that brings deadly creatures, trapping people in confined spaces. Both explore human behavior under extreme stress and the breakdown of social norms.

Fact: Based on Stephen King's novella, previously adapted into a 2007 film. The TV series expands the story beyond the original supermarket setting. It was canceled after one season due to low ratings.

Description: 'Black Summer' and 'The Swarm' both present a relentless, fast-moving threat to humanity (zombies vs. marine creatures). Each emphasizes the chaos and brutality of survival scenarios, with a gritty, intense tone and minimal exposition.

Fact: Set in the same universe as 'Z Nation' but with a more serious tone. Features long, continuous action sequences. The show uses minimal dialogue to heighten tension.