Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon that can inspire awe, fear, and a sense of adventure. This curated list of family-friendly films about earthquakes provides not just thrilling action but also heartwarming stories that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages. From tales of survival to heartwarming stories of family unity, these movies offer a mix of suspense and emotional depth, making them perfect for a family movie night or a cozy weekend watch.
Earthquake (1974)
Description: This classic disaster film captures the terror of a massive earthquake in Los Angeles, with a focus on how families and individuals cope with the aftermath.
Fact: The film used a new sound system called Sensurround to simulate the feeling of an earthquake in theaters.
Watch Now 
Volcano (1997)
Description: While focused on a volcanic eruption, the film includes significant seismic activity, showing how a family and a city cope with natural disasters.
Fact: The film was released in the same year as "Dante's Peak," leading to comparisons between the two volcano movies.
Watch Now 
Deep Impact (1998)
Description: This film deals with a comet strike, but includes scenes of earthquakes and tsunamis, focusing on how families and governments react to impending doom.
Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the concept of a "planet killer" asteroid/comet.
Watch Now 
Hard Rain (1998)
Description: Although centered around a flood, the film starts with an earthquake causing a dam to break, leading to a thrilling adventure for a family of characters.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use digital water effects extensively.
Watch Now 
The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: While not exclusively about earthquakes, this film features a massive superstorm that triggers seismic events, showcasing the power of nature and the resilience of families in the face of disaster.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Coming Global Superstorm" by Art Bell and Whitley Strieber. It was one of the first movies to use extensive CGI for weather effects.
Watch Now 
2012 (2009)
Description: Although it covers a broader range of natural disasters, the film includes significant earthquake sequences, focusing on a family's struggle to survive the end of the world.
Fact: The film was one of the most expensive ever made, with a budget of over $200 million, much of which went into creating realistic disaster scenes.
Watch Now 
The Impossible (2012)
Description: Based on a true story, this film depicts the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, focusing on a family's struggle to reunite.
Fact: The film was shot in Thailand, where the actual events took place, providing an authentic setting for the story.
Watch Now 
The Finest Hours (2016)
Description: While primarily a sea rescue story, the film includes a significant earthquake scene that sets the stage for the dramatic rescue operation, emphasizing family and duty.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the 1952 Pendleton rescue off the coast of Cape Cod.
Watch Now 
San Andreas (2015)
Description: This action-packed film follows a rescue-chopper pilot and his estranged wife as they navigate the aftermath of a massive earthquake along the San Andreas Fault, highlighting family bonds in crisis.
Fact: The film's earthquake scenes were based on real geological data, and the CGI was used to simulate the destruction of the Hoover Dam.
Watch Now 
Aftershock (1990)
Description: A family vacation in Chile turns into a nightmare when an earthquake strikes, showcasing the struggle for survival and the strength of family ties.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Chile, providing a realistic backdrop for the disaster scenes.
30 Days Free 
