What Makes Disaster Films Great
What makes a disaster film captivating? In this episode exploring the disaster movie genre, Stuff You Should Know examines the hallmarks of films depicting large-scale catastrophes like natural disasters, technological failures, and extraterrestrial threats. The hosts trace the genre's evolution from its 1930s origins through the 1970s ensemble cast boom and the 1990s CGI-fueled revival.
They discuss how disaster movies focus on survival amid ongoing emergencies, often with an "everyman" hero. Key examples showcase the genre's penchant for spectacular effects portraying destruction while facing criticism over stereotypical characters and oversimplified human dynamics. The episode provides an insightful look at this popular genre's enduring appeal and how it reflects societal anxieties about calamitous events.
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1-Page Summary
Defining the Disaster Movie Genre
Large-Scale Catastrophes
As Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant discuss, disaster movies depict catastrophic events threatening many people, whether natural disasters, technological failures, pandemics, or extraterrestrial forces. The protagonists must navigate these crises' impacts and challenges.
Key Focus: Protagonists' Survival
A critical element is the focus on the survivors' fight against an ongoing, large-scale emergency, showcased in films like "The Towering [restricted term]." While some characters may perish, the genre expects leading stars to ultimately survive.
The History and Evolution
1930s Origins
The genre emerged in the 1930s with films like "Deluge" depicting natural force destruction, establishing core themes.
1970s Disaster Movie Boom
The 1970s saw a boom in ensemble cast disaster movies exploring interpersonal dramas amid catastrophes. Tropes like the "Everyman" hero and teamwork amid crises emerged. While lucrative, films faced criticism for schlocky effects and gender stereotypes.
1990s Revival and Technological Advancements
The 1990s revived the genre with CGI enabling realistic, spectacular disaster depictions in movies like "Twister" and "Independence Day." However, criticism persisted over gender stereotypes and simplistic societal portrayals.
Prominent Examples Over Time
1930s-1960s: Foundations
Foundational films like "Deluge" and "San Francisco" showcased the destructive power of disasters, defining the genre's premise.
1970s: Ensembles, Drama, and Groundbreaking Effects
The "disaster movie boom" era featured notable films like "The Towering [restricted term]" with ensemble casts, dramatic narratives, and novel special effects. Posters highlighted the star power. However, criticism arose over stereotypes and simplistic human dynamics.
1990s-2010s: Technological Realism and Massive Scale
Movies like "Twister," "Independence Day," and "The Day After Tomorrow" pushed boundaries with CGI realism and depicted threats on a global scale. However, underdeveloped female roles and simplified societal issues remained points of criticism.
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Counterarguments
- While protagonists often survive in disaster movies, this is not always the case; some films subvert expectations by allowing main characters to perish, which can add to the unpredictability and emotional impact of the story.
- The disaster movie genre may have precursors or influences before the 1930s that contributed to its development, such as earlier literature or silent films that also depicted large-scale catastrophes.
- The focus on interpersonal drama and ensemble casts in the 1970s can be seen as a strength, providing depth and human interest amidst the spectacle of disaster, rather than just a backdrop for action.
- The "Everyman" hero trope can be interpreted as a way to make disaster movies more relatable to audiences, as it allows viewers to imagine themselves in the protagonist's shoes.
- The use of CGI in the 1990s and beyond, while providing realism, can also be critiqued for sometimes prioritizing spectacle over storytelling or character development.
- The criticism of underdeveloped female roles and simplified societal issues in disaster movies may not apply universally; some films in the genre have been praised for their nuanced characters and exploration of complex themes.
- The assertion that leading stars are expected to survive might overlook the narrative diversity within the genre, where some films intentionally defy this expectation to create tension or deliver a message.
- The idea that disaster movies primarily depict global threats may overlook those films that focus on more localized or personal disasters, which can be equally compelling and resonate with audiences on a different level.
Actionables
- You can analyze your personal crisis management by watching a disaster movie and identifying the decisions you would make in the protagonist's place. As you watch, take notes on the different challenges the characters face and consider how you would respond in similar situations. This exercise can help you reflect on your problem-solving and decision-making skills in high-pressure scenarios.
- Create a personal emergency preparedness plan inspired by the teamwork and survival strategies seen in ensemble cast disaster films. Gather your family or housemates and discuss each person's role in case of an emergency, drawing parallels to the collaborative efforts depicted in movies. This can foster a sense of preparedness and collective responsibility.
- Enhance your storytelling skills by writing a short story that incorporates the tropes of the "Everyman" hero and the fight against a disaster, similar to those in 1970s disaster movies. This creative exercise can help you explore human resilience and the importance of teamwork in overcoming adversity, while also honing your writing abilities.
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Defining the Disaster Movie Genre
The disaster movie genre is a staple of cinematic entertainment, providing audiences with thrilling tales of survival and perseverance amidst catastrophic events.
Disaster Movies Depict Catastrophic Events Threatening Many People
Disaster movies typically portray catastrophic events that pose a serious threat to a large number of people, whether caused by natural disasters, technological failures, pandemics, or extraterrestrial forces.
Disasters: Natural, Technological, Pandemic, Extraterrestrial Threats
Discussing the genre, Josh Clark expresses a fondness for disaster movies, making a specific reference to "The Day After Tomorrow." The characters in these films might grapple with a variety of disaster scenarios, including human-made disasters such as climate change or global pandemics, as well as extraterrestrial threats like alien attacks or comets on a collision course with Earth.
Disaster Movies Show Characters Facing Crisis Impacts and Challenges
In disaster movies, characters are depicted as they navigate the complications and dangers presented by catastrophic events. Whether they are responding to a natural disaster, technological mishap, alien invasion, or any other form of catastrophe, the film's protagonists are seen actively confronting and trying to overcome the crises.
Key Element: Protagonists' Sur ...
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Defining the Disaster Movie Genre
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Counterarguments
- While disaster movies often depict catastrophic events threatening many people, some critics argue that these films can oversimplify complex issues, such as climate change or pandemics, reducing them to mere entertainment rather than opportunities for education or meaningful discourse.
- The portrayal of characters in disaster movies sometimes falls into stereotypical or formulaic patterns, which can lead to predictable and unoriginal character development and plot progression.
- The focus on protagonists' survival and resolution of emergencies in disaster movies can sometimes overshadow the broader social, political, and ethical implications of the disasters depicted, potentially minimizing the real-world consequences and suffering associated with such events.
- Disaster movies may contribute to desensitization to actual disa ...
Actionables
- You can enhance your problem-solving skills by creating a "disaster movie" game night with friends where each person must present a unique solution to a hypothetical catastrophic scenario. This activity encourages creative thinking and crisis management skills, similar to the protagonists in disaster movies. For example, one scenario could involve a sudden technological failure that wipes out all digital communication, and participants would brainstorm ways to re-establish connections and maintain order.
- Develop a personal emergency preparedness plan by drawing inspiration from disaster movie scenarios. Assess potential risks in your area, such as natural disasters or technological threats, and create a detailed response strategy for each. This might include having an emergency kit, establishing a family communication plan, and knowing evacuation routes, mirroring the survival focus of disaster movie characters.
- Practice mindfulness and stress management techniques by imagining yourself in a high- ...
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The History and Evolution of Disaster Movies
Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant explore the development of the disaster film genre from its inception in the 1930s to modern times, discussing the rise and fall of the genre as well as its resurgence in the 1990s.
Early Disaster Films Emerged In the 1930s, With Deluge Depicting Natural Disasters
Early Films Established Core Genre Elements Like Natural Force Destruction
Clark introduces "Deluge" from 1933 as an early disaster film, where New York City is destroyed by a tsunami, establishing the genre's core theme of large-scale destruction by natural forces.
1970s Disaster Movie Boom: Airport, the Towering [restricted term], Earthquake Hits
Movies With Ensemble Casts Using Disasters to Explore Interpersonal Dramas
The 1970s marked a boom in disaster films such as "Airport", which started a trend of movies with large ensemble casts, earning high box office returns by exploring interpersonal dramas amidst catastrophic events. The success of "Airport" caught studio bosses' attention, leading to the production of more disaster movies.
1970s Disaster Films Established Tropes Like the "Everyman" Hero, Stereotypes, and Sensational Effects
Clark recommends "The Towering [restricted term]" as a definitive disaster movie, and Bryant mentions "Earthquake" from 1974 featured Charlton Heston trapped in a skyscraper during an earthquake. They discuss how "Earthquake" signaled that the boom would not last forever, especially with its schlocky moments like camera-shaking earthquake scenes and freeze-frame animated blood splatters. "The Swarm" from 1978 is noted as the film that ended the disaster movie boom of the 1970s, marked by a series of flops culminating in "When Time Ran Out" in 1980.
Bryant discusses the emergence of the "Everyman" hero in disaster films, such as the oil rig workers in "Armageddon" and actor Gene Hackman in "The Poseidon Adventure." They also note that "The Towering [restricted term]" showcased a trope of teamwork during disasters.
1990s Genre Revival: Twister, Independence Day, Titanic and Visual Effects Innovation
Technological Advancements Enabled Realistic, Spectacular Disaster Depictions
Clark and Bryant discuss the resurgence of disaster movies in the 1990s, with the introduction of visually spectacular films like "Twister" and "Independence Day," which were aided by new CG ...
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The History and Evolution of Disaster Movies
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- The assertion that the disaster movie genre declined after 9/11 might be too simplistic, as some disaster films released after 9/11, such as "War of the Worlds" (2005), were successful, suggesting that the genre's popularity may fluctuate rather than follow a clear decline and resurgence pattern.
- While the genre has been criticized for gender stereotypes, there have been disaster films that feature strong female leads and more nuanced roles for women, such as "Aliens" (1986) with Sigourney Weaver's character Ripley, which could be seen as a counterexample to the criticism.
- The idea that the "Everyman" hero trope is a staple of disaster films could be challenged by pointing out that many disaster movies feature characters with specialized skills or expertise, such as scientists or emergency responders, rather than ordinary individuals.
- The claim that the 1970s disaster films established sensational effects might be countered by noting that the use of sensational effects has been a part of cinema since its early days, with films like "The Great Train Robbery" (1903) using special effects to create excitement.
- The notion that the 1990s revival of disaster movies was solely due to technological advancements in visual effects might be overly reductive, as storytelling, cultural context, and audience tastes also play significant roles in the success an ...
Actionables
- You can analyze the evolution of film tropes by watching a disaster movie from each mentioned era and noting the differences in characters and effects. Start with a 1930s film like "San Francisco," move to a 1970s classic such as "The Poseidon Adventure," then a 1990s hit like "Armageddon," and finally a post-2000s movie like "2012." Compare the portrayal of heroes, the use of special effects, and the representation of social issues across these films to see how the genre has evolved.
- Create a short story or comic strip that subverts typical disaster movie stereotypes, focusing on strong female leads and diverse characters. Use the criticism of gender stereotypes and simplistic portrayals as a basis to craft a narrative that passes the Bechdel test and includes well-rounded characters of different backgrounds, showing how a modern disaster story could be more inclusive and complex.
- Host a movie night with friends whe ...
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Prominent Examples of Disaster Movies Over the Decades
The evolution of disaster movies across different eras—from their foundations in the early 20th century to the technologically-advanced productions of recent times—reveals the genre's drawing power and its characteristic tropes.
1930s-1960s: Early Films Like Deluge and San Francisco Defined the Disaster Genre
Destructive Power of Disasters
Disaster movies began depicting cataclysmic events in the 1930s with films such as "Deluge" and "San Francisco." "Deluge" from 1933 showcased the destructive force of a disaster with several minutes dedicated to New York City’s destruction, while "San Francisco," rooted in the 1906 earthquake, also depicted the havoc wreaked by natural disasters, setting a precedent for the genre.
1970s: "Disaster Movie Boom" With Ensembles, Drama, and Groundbreaking Effects
During the 1970s, the disaster movie genre experienced a significant boom characterized by ensemble casts, dramatic storylines, and novel special effects.
Films Like the Towering [restricted term] and Earthquake Showcased the Genre's Ability to Captivate With Catastrophes
Clark highlights "The Towering [restricted term]" as a memorable disaster film from this era that depicts a catastrophic skyscraper fire, augmented with groundbreaking special effects. Movie posters from this time, such as that for "Towering [restricted term]," often featured the star-studded cast to attract audiences.
Criticism For Relying On Stereotypes and Simplistic Narratives
Despite their popularity, disaster movies of this period faced criticism for employing pervasive stereotypes, such as the brawny but dumb guy, the astute scientist, and women relegated to roles needing rescue. "The Towering [restricted term]," "Earthquake," and others were implied to have simplistic narratives. "The Swarm" and "When Time Ran Out" were specifically criticized for poor character portrayals and insufficiently convincing effects. Overall, the genre was scrutinized for simplifying human dynamics into black-and-white moral categories and not providing substantial roles for women.
1990s-2010s: Technology Enabled Realistic and Stunning Disaster Films
Boundary-Pushing Movies: Twister, Independence Day, the Day Afte ...
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Prominent Examples of Disaster Movies Over the Decades
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While "Deluge" and "San Francisco" were early examples of disaster movies, the genre could be argued to have roots in earlier silent films that also depicted disasters and their human impact.
- The depiction of New York City's destruction in "Deluge" might be seen as pioneering, but it could also be critiqued for its potential insensitivity to real-life tragedies and the fear they instill.
- The precedent set by "San Francisco" for the disaster genre might be considered limited by the standards and perspectives of its time, which could have influenced its narrative and thematic choices.
- The 1970s disaster movies, while criticized for stereotypes and simplistic narratives, could be defended for their reflection of the cultural and social norms of the era, which influenced character archetypes and storytelling.
- The groundbreaking special effects in "The Towering [restricted term]" and other 1970s disaster films might be viewed as innovative for their time, but could also be seen as overshadowing character development and more nuanced storytelling.
- The criticism of 1970s disaster movies for their portrayal of women and character stereotypes might be countered by acknowledging the genre's primary focus on spectacle and action, which may not prioritize complex character arcs.
- The use of CGI in the 1990s-2010s disaster movies like "Twister" and "Independence Day" r ...
Actionables
- Explore the evolution of film technology by creating a timeline of disaster movies using free online tools like Canva or Tiki-Toki. Start with the 1930s films mentioned and add key movies from each decade, noting the advancements in special effects and societal themes. This visual representation can help you understand the progression of the genre and its impact on pop culture.
- Write a short story or script that subverts common disaster movie tropes, focusing on complex societal dynamics and diverse character backgrounds. Use writing platforms like Wattpad or Scribophile to share your work and get feedback from a community of readers and writers, which can help refine your storytelling skills and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the genre.
- Host a themed movie night with friends or family where yo ...
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