Movies Like Adrift: Survival Stories You’ll Love

Description: A story of isolation and survival, where the protagonist must endure years alone on a deserted island. The film explores themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit.

Fact: Tom Hanks lost over 50 pounds for his role, and the production was halted for a year so he could undergo the physical transformation.

Description: Based on a true story, this film depicts the harrowing ordeal of a fishing crew caught in a catastrophic storm. It highlights the raw power of the ocean and the fragility of human life.

Fact: The storm scenes were created using a combination of practical effects and CGI, some of the most advanced for its time.

Description: A tense, realistic portrayal of a couple stranded in the ocean after being accidentally left behind by their dive boat. The film's minimalist approach heightens the sense of dread and vulnerability.

Fact: The film was shot on a shoestring budget using real sharks, adding to its authenticity and suspense.

Description: A visually stunning tale of survival at sea, blending adventure with deep philosophical themes. The protagonist's journey is both physical and spiritual, much like the referenced title.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Visual Effects, for its groundbreaking use of CGI to create the tiger, Richard Parker.

Description: Based on the true story that inspired 'Moby-Dick,' this film follows the crew of a whaling ship as they battle a massive sperm whale and the merciless sea. It's a tale of survival and man versus nature.

Fact: The film used a combination of practical effects and CGI to create the whale, aiming for a realistic and terrifying presence.

Description: A historical adventure about a daring expedition across the Pacific on a balsa wood raft. The film showcases the crew's struggle against the ocean's vastness and their own limitations.

Fact: The film was shot in both Norwegian and English, with the same actors performing in both versions.

Description: A harrowing true story of survival, resilience, and endurance, focusing on an Olympic athlete who survives a plane crash only to face years as a prisoner of war. The ocean plays a pivotal role in his initial survival.

Fact: The film is based on Laura Hillenbrand's bestselling book, which took seven years to research and write.

Description: A gripping survival story set at sea, focusing on a lone sailor battling the elements. The film emphasizes human resilience and the struggle against nature's unpredictability.

Fact: Robert Redford is the only actor in the film, and there is minimal dialogue, relying heavily on visual storytelling.

Description: A biographical drama about a sailor's ill-fated attempt to circumnavigate the globe solo. The film delves into the psychological toll of isolation and the ocean's relentless challenges.

Fact: The story is based on the true and mysterious disappearance of Donald Crowhurst during the 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race.

Description: A suspenseful survival thriller about a surfer trapped on a rock just yards from shore, stalked by a great white shark. The film captures the terror and ingenuity required to survive against nature's predators.

Fact: Blake Lively performed most of her own stunts, including swimming with real sharks in some scenes.