Tsunami movies:

The Wave, 2015 (Norway) – rated R, 105mins

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Summary: Although anticipated, no one is ready when the mountain pass above the scenic, narrow Norwegian fjord Geiranger collapses and creates an 85-meter high violent tsunami. A geologist is one of those caught in the middle of it and his family suffers through various responses depending on their situations.

Recommendation: The actor Kristoffer Joner is compelling in every scene. You believe in his tension, his rising anxiety, his doubt, his mathematical realizations as he looks at data and charts. He sells the science of the whole story for me. Additionally, the wife is played by Ane Dahl Torp and her performance also raises the standard for a disaster movie. It is her humanity and quick thinking that make me root so strongly for her.

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The Impossible, 2012 – rated PG-13, 114mins

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Summary: A regular tourist family – Maria (Watts), Henry (McGregor) and their three kids – travel to Thailand to spend Christmas. They get an upgrade to a villa on the coastline. After settling in and exchanging gifts, they go to the pool, like so many other tourists. A perfect paradise vacation until a distant noise becomes a roar. There is no time to escape from the tsunami; Maria and her eldest are swept one way, Henry and the youngest another. Who will survive, and what will become of them?

Recommendation: This may be the youngest I have ever seen Tom Holland performing, and he is so very good at making me feel vulnerable and cautious and fearless all at the same time. It’s not so much about the adults acting as it is the overall wretchedness of the situation. Wounded, lost, separated, unfamiliar with the language, a feeling of hopelessness could build strength. But you follow along with their travels and trials… you hope for this family despite all that’s against them.

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Tidal Wave, 2009 (South Korea) – rated R, 120mins

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Summary: Professor Kim, a marine geologist, recognizes the impending danger of a mega tsunami headed straight for Haeundae, a popular vacation spot on the south coast of Korea. He desperately attempts to warn authorities and alert the unknowing vacationers of the 500 MPH destructive force of nature headed their direction. A woman named Yeon-hee lives in Busan with her surrounding community of odd people near Haeundae Beach. When they learn a tsunami will hit the city, they realize there’s only 10 minutes to escape.

Recommendation: Culture clash can be intrusive depending on the movie and the culture itself (how familiar you already are with it). The first half of the movie is setting you up with all the characters and their relationships. We understand from their actions that a great deal of difference in how certain people are treated by proud elders or money conscious social climbers is to be expected. Once the wave starts rolling forward, however, all our thoughts are on higher ground or the safety of our favorite characters. Note: not everyone makes it through this disaster so wait to cheer or mourn as necessary.

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