38 Apocalyptic TV Shows on Netflix: Binge Now, Repent Later

Apocalyptic TV shows on Netflix capture a diverse array of narratives that revolve around the end of the world or society as we know it. These series often explore themes of survival, human resilience, and the collapse of civilization due to various catastrophic events such as natural disasters, pandemics, zombie outbreaks, or alien invasions. The atmosphere is typically tense and suspenseful, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as characters navigate through perilous and uncertain worlds where the stakes are alarmingly high. The characters in apocalyptic TV shows on Netflix are as varied as the scenarios they face but often include a mix of reluctant heroes, resourceful survivors, and sometimes morally ambiguous figures, highlighting both the best and worst aspects of humanity under extreme pressure.

Army of the Dead

Army of the Dead
Zombie outbreak heist in a quarantined Vegas

Released: 2021

Platform: Netflix

Rating: R

Run time: 2h 28m

Cast
Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell, Omari Hardwick, Garret Dillahunt, Ana de la Reguera, Theo Rossi, Matthias Schweighöfer, Nora Arnezeder, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tig Notaro, Raúl Castillo, Huma Qureshi, Samantha Win, Richard Cetrone, Michael Cassidy

Army of the Dead, directed by Zack Snyder, is a must-watch for fans of action-packed cinema and the zombie genre. Combining a gripping heist narrative with a fresh take on the undead, the film offers a thrilling ride from start to finish. Dave Bautista leads a diverse and compelling cast, delivering both powerful action and emotional depth. The production value is top-notch, featuring stunning visual effects and meticulously detailed settings that bring post-apocalyptic Las Vegas to life. Unique, intelligent zombies add a new layer of suspense and danger, challenging the mercenaries in unexpected ways. The soundtrack, composed by Tom Holkenborg, perfectly complements the intense on-screen action. With Snyder's signature visual style, high-octane sequences, and a mix of practical effects, Army of the Dead offers a visually and emotionally engaging experience. It's a feast for action lovers and a refreshing twist for zombie enthusiasts, making it an unmissable Netflix original.

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Don't Look Up

Don't Look Up
Satirical drama warning about climate change

Released: 2021

Platform: Netflix

Rating: R

Run time: 2h 23m

Cast
Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchett, Rob Morgan, Jonah Hill, Mark Rylance, Tyler Perry, Timothée Chalamet, Ariana Grande, Scott Mescudi, Michael Chiklis, Melanie Lynskey, Himesh Patel, Tomer Sisley, Paul Guilfoyle, Robert Joy

Dont Look Up, directed by Adam McKay, is a must-watch satirical science fiction comedy that cleverly critiques societys response to imminent global threats, akin to climate change. Released in 2021, it boasts an ensemble cast featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, and Jonah Hill, who deliver stellar performances that add depth to its biting humor. The plot follows two astronomers on a desperate mission to alert the world about a comet set to annihilate Earth, only to face a gamut of ludicrous reactions from politicians, media, and the public. The film’s sharp, satirical narrative is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making audiences laugh while reflecting on real-world apathy toward critical issues. Rich with brilliant acting, intelligent humor, and stunning special effects, Don’t Look Up is not just a movie; it's a poignant social commentary. With its outstanding accolades and memorable quotes, it’s a cinematic experience that both entertains and enlightens.

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How It Ends

How It Ends
Post-apocalyptic journey to find loved ones

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 53m

Cast
Theo James, Forest Whitaker, Kat Graham, Nicole Ari Parker, Mark O'Brien, Grace Dove

Why You Should Watch How It Ends How It Ends offers a riveting blend of action, suspense, and emotional drama that keeps viewers invested from start to finish. Centered on Will, a young lawyer who undertakes a perilous journey to reunite with his pregnant girlfriend during an apocalyptic event, the film explores profound themes of survival, family dynamics, and the lengths people will go to for their loved ones. With masterful direction by David M. Rosenthal and a compelling script by Brooks McLaren, How It Ends immerses you in its tense atmosphere through meticulous camerawork and sound design. The standout performances by Theo James and Forest Whitaker add depth and nuance to the story, especially in the portrayal of the complicated relationship between Will and his estranged father-in-law, Tom. If you appreciate gripping storylines and emotional narratives, How It Ends is a must-watch, leaving you contemplating its ambiguous, thought-provoking ending.

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Extinction

Extinction
Family man fights alien invasion to survive

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 35m

Cast
Michael Peña, Lizzy Caplan, Israel Broussard, Mike Colter, Emma Booth, Lex Shrapnel, Erica Tremblay, Lilly Aspell

Extinction is a captivating science fiction drama that masterfully intertwines intense personal drama with high-stake alien invasion. Directed by Ben Young and starring Michael Peña as Peter, the series centers on a fathers recurring nightmares that transform into a horrifying reality when Earth is attacked by an unknown alien force. As Peter fights to protect his family, he uncovers shocking truths about himself that shift the narrative entirely. The compelling performances by Michael Peña, Lizzy Caplan, and Mike Colter bring depth to the characters relationships and struggles, making the stakes feel incredibly real. With its unique twist on the genre, innovative storytelling, and emotionally resonant score by Nima Fakhrara, Extinction offers viewers a thought-provoking and thrilling experience that emphasizes both external and internal conflicts. Perfect for fans of sci-fi dramas who appreciate a blend of action, mystery, and emotional depth. Dont miss this gripping show that challenges our perceptions of reality and identity.

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Cargo

Cargo
Stranded father seeks safety for infant daughter

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 44m

Cast
Martin Freeman, Anthony Hayes, Susie Porter, Kris McQuade, Caren Pistorius

Why You Should Watch Cargo Cargo (2018) is not your typical zombie horror flick; it's a gripping emotional journey set in a post-apocalyptic world. Directed by Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke, the film features Martin Freeman as a loving father named Andy who has 48 hours to find a safe haven for his infant daughter before he succumbs to a zombie virus. This Australian production excels in creating a visually stunning and immersive atmosphere, largely accomplished with practical effects and breathtaking South Australian landscapes. The film's heart lies in its well-developed characters, particularly the bond between Andy and a young Indigenous girl named Thoomi (Simone Landers), which introduces themes of family, survival, and cultural connection. Cargo stands out by focusing on the human aspect of a zombie apocalypse, offering a poignant narrative that transcends standard genre tropes. Rich in emotion and thematic depth, it’s a must-watch for fans of horror and heartfelt storytelling alike.

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Sturgill Simpson Presents Sound & Fury

Sturgill Simpson Presents Sound & Fury
Apocalyptic anime set to Sturgill Simpson's music

Released: 2019

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 41m

Cast

Sturgill Simpson Presents Sound & Fury is a groundbreaking animated musical anthology that seamlessly blends the gritty, soulful music of Sturgill Simpson with stunning anime visuals. This unique collaboration between Sturgill Simpson, filmmaker Jumpei Mizusaki, and animation studio Kamikaze Douga brings to life a post-apocalyptic journey through a dystopian world, led by a sword-wielding protagonist. Fans of both music and animation will find themselves drawn to the riveting action, breathtaking aesthetics, and immersive storytelling. This series is a visual and auditory feast, pushing the boundaries of traditional animation with its fusion of Western rock, country, and blues influences with Japanese anime and cyberpunk aesthetics. Each meticulously crafted episode offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure enhanced by Simpson's compelling soundtrack, making Sound & Fury a must-watch for those who crave innovation in their viewing experiences. Dive into this explosive world where sound and vision meld to tell an unforgettable story.

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Awake

Awake
Global power outage erases humanity's ability to sleep

Released: 2021

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 37m

Cast
Gina Rodriguez, Ariana Greenblatt, Frances Fisher, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Barry Pepper, Shamier Anderson, Finn Jones, Lucius Hoyos, Gil Bellows

Awake is a gripping drama that premiered in 2021, weaving together an intricate narrative about a detective, Michael Britten, who finds himself living in two starkly contrasting realities after a devastating car accident. In one, his wife survived but their son perished, while in the other, their son survived but his wife did not. Each night, he oscillates between these realities, using clues from both to solve intricate cases while struggling to discern which is real and which is a dream. With a compelling performance by Jason Isaacs as the tormented detective, supported by a stellar cast including Laura Allen and Dylan Minnette, Awake dives deep into the nature of reality and human resilience. Created by Kyle Killen and produced by Netflix, the show has been lauded for its intelligent storytelling and strong performances. Its thought-provoking exploration of parallel universes and existential themes leaves audiences pondering long after each episode. With its atmospheric music and evocative quotes, Awake is a must-watch for those who appreciate profound, emotionally charged narratives.

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Aftermath

Aftermath
A tense, suspenseful couple surviving post-trauma

Released: 2021

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 54m

Cast
Ashley Greene, Shawn Ashmore, Sharif Atkins, Britt Baron, Diana Hopper, Ross McCall, Jamie Kaler, Travis Coles, Susan Walters, Jason Liles

Why You Should Watch Aftermath If you're a fan of gripping, edge-of-your-seat horror, Aftermath is a must-watch. This 2021 TV show masterfully blends supernatural elements with a compelling family saga. The story follows the Copeland family, whose struggle for survival in a post-apocalyptic world is both heart-pounding and emotionally resonant. Each episode presents new threats, from supernatural creatures like vampires and zombies to earth-shattering natural disasters, ensuring that the excitement never wanes. What sets Aftermath apart is its realistic portrayal of family dynamics amidst chaos. The characters, played by a talented cast including Anne Heche and James Tupper, are relatable and richly developed. The visual effects are top-notch, combining practical effects and CGI to create a believable, immersive setting. Despite being canceled after just one season, Aftermath garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for its unique blend of horror and family drama. Its eerie soundtrack by Andrew Lockington adds layers of tension, making it a complete sensory experience. For anyone seeking a thrilling ride that also tugs at the heartstrings, Aftermath is a must-see.

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Home

Home
Alien befriends girl in post-invasion Earth

Released:

Platform: Netflix

Rating: PG

Run time: 1h 34m

Cast
Jim Parsons, Rihanna, Steve Martin, Jennifer Lopez, Matt Jones, Brian Stepanek, April Lawrence

Released in 2015, Home is an engaging and heartwarming computer-animated sci-fi comedy from DreamWorks Animation, based on Adam Rexs 2007 childrens book The True Meaning of Smekday. Directed by Tim Johnson, the film follows an unusual friendship between a clumsy alien named Oh, voiced by Jim Parsons, and a resilient girl named Tip, brought to life by Rihanna. Together, they embark on a thrilling quest to find Tips mother and save Earth from impending danger. With vibrant animation, a compelling storyline, and memorable performances, Home teaches valuable lessons about understanding, acceptance, and the essence of home. It's not just a visual treat but also a sonic delight featuring a score by Lorne Balfe and catchy songs by Rihanna. Additionally, it stands out as DreamWorks' first film with an African-American lead character. Winning the Kids' Choice Award for Favorite Animated Movie in 2016, Home is a must-watch for its humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments.

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About This Collection

Epic survival and dystopian futures on Netflix.

Apocalyptic TV shows on Netflix delve into grim future scenarios where humanity grapples with widespread chaos, survival, and rebuilding society. These series feature gripping storylines, intense drama, and vivid portrayals of desolate worlds. Whether it’s zombie outbreaks, nuclear disasters, or alien invasions, apocalyptic TV shows on Netflix keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

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