Introduction
Survival movies have a unique way of captivating our imagination and transporting us to the edge of our seats. These films are often a rollercoaster of emotions, taking us on harrowing journeys of human endurance, resilience, and resourcefulness. If you’re a fan of gripping survival stories, DStv offers a treasure trove of movies that will keep you glued to your screen. In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-watch survival movies available on DStv. Prepare to be enthralled as we dive into tales of courage, wit, and the human spirits indomitable will to survive. Though, before you start reading you should know that these movies are available on DStv but DStv is only available in South Africa and to watch DStv in USA or anywhere outside South Africa you will need a VPN.
“Cast Away” (2000)
Tom Hanks delivers a powerhouse performance in this classic survival film directed by Robert Zemeckis. Hanks plays Chuck Noland, a FedEx executive who finds himself marooned on a deserted island after a plane crash. With nothing but his wits and a volleyball named Wilson, Chuck battles the elements, isolation, and the relentless ticking of time. “Cast Away” is a tale of human endurance, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It’s a must-watch for any survival movie enthusiast.
“127 Hours” (2010)
Directed by Danny Boyle and starring James Franco, “127 Hours” is a real-life survival story that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The film follows the journey of Aron Ralston, an avid adventurer who becomes trapped in a narrow slot canyon in Utah. With his arm pinned by a boulder and no hope of rescue in sight, Ralston must summon the courage to make a life-altering decision. The film is a riveting exploration of the human will to survive against all odds.
“The Revenant” (2015)
Directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and featuring an Oscar-winning performance by Leonardo DiCaprio, “The Revenant” is a brutal tale of survival in the wilderness of 1820s America. DiCaprio portrays frontiersman Hugh Glass, who is left for dead by his expedition team after a bear mauling. What follows is a grueling journey for survival, as Glass navigates harsh terrain and confronts both nature and man. The film’s breathtaking cinematography and relentless storytelling make it a must-see for survival movie enthusiasts.
“Life of Pi” (2012)
“Life of Pi,” directed by Ang Lee, is a visually stunning adaptation of Yann Martel’s novel. The film tells the story of Pi Patel, a young Indian man who becomes stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. The film’s mesmerizing visuals, coupled with its themes of faith, survival, and self-discovery, make it a unique addition to the survival movie genre. It’s a cinematic masterpiece that you won’t want to miss on DStv.
“The Grey” (2011)
Liam Neeson takes on a relentless fight for survival in “The Grey,” directed by Joe Carnahan. Neeson plays Ottway, a skilled marksman who, along with a group of oil-rig workers, must survive a brutal plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness. Battling extreme cold, a pack of hungry wolves, and their own fears, the group’s struggle for survival is both intense and gripping. “The Grey” is a visceral experience that showcases the power of human determination in the face of nature’s fury.
“Wild” (2014)
Based on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, “Wild” is directed by Jean-Marc Vallée and stars Reese Witherspoon as Cheryl, a woman who embarks on a grueling 1,100-mile solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail as a way to heal and find herself. The film beautifully explores Cheryl’s personal journey and the challenges she faces in the wild. Witherspoon’s exceptional performance and the film’s striking cinematography make “Wild” a must-watch for those seeking both emotional and survival elements in a movie.
“The Martian” (2015)
Directed by Ridley Scott and featuring Matt Damon as astronaut Mark Watney, “The Martian” is a thrilling tale of survival on the harsh terrain of Mars. Stranded by his crew and presumed dead, Watney must use his ingenuity and resourcefulness to stay alive on the desolate planet until rescue becomes possible. The film is a compelling blend of science, humor, and the human spirit’s unwavering determination to survive against all odds.
“Everest” (2015)
Directed by Baltasar Kormákur, “Everest” chronicles the true story of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster. The film follows the harrowing journey of climbers facing treacherous conditions and unexpected challenges during their ascent of the world’s tallest peak. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast, including Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, and Jake Gyllenhaal, “Everest” is an intense and visually stunning survival film that captures the spirit of adventure and the power of human determination.
“The Shallows” (2016)
Jaume Collet-Serra’s “The Shallows” stars Blake Lively as Nancy, a surfer who becomes stranded on a rock just 200 yards from the shore, with a great white shark circling her. The film delivers suspense and tension in spades, as Nancy must outsmart the relentless predator to make it back to safety. “The Shallows” is a pulse-pounding survival thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
“Gravity” (2013)
Directed by Alfonso Cuarón and starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney, “Gravity” is a breathtaking space survival thriller. The film follows two astronauts, Dr. Ryan Stone and Lieutenant Matt Kowalski, who become stranded in orbit after a space debris collision leaves them adrift. “Gravity” is a masterclass in visual storytelling, immersing viewers in the vastness and isolation of space. It’s a gripping tale of survival that explores the human spirit’s resilience and the relentless pursuit of home.
Conclusion
Survival movies have the power to evoke a wide range of emotions, from fear and suspense to inspiration and awe. DStv offers a fantastic selection of survival films that cater to all tastes, from heart-pounding adventures to emotionally charged journeys of self-discovery. Whether you’re a fan of true stories or fictional tales of survival, these 10 movies provide a captivating cinematic experience. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be transported to the edge of your seat by the remarkable stories of courage, wit, and the indomitable human spirit in these outstanding survival movies.
