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Thrill-seeking tv: the ultimate survival series like 'the 100'

Craving the adrenaline rush of survival against all odds? If you were captivated by 'The 100', prepare to plunge into a curated list of series and films that test the limits of human endurance and ingenuity.

The Walking Dead
Lost
Terra Nova

Since the dawn of storytelling, humanity has been captivated by tales of survival. From the mythical trials of Hercules to the real-life accounts of shipwrecked sailors, these narratives tap into our deepest fears and aspirations, exploring the resilience of the human spirit when stripped bare of civilization's comforts.

In recent years, the survival genre has exploded in popularity, particularly on television, where extended storylines allow for deeper character development and exploration of complex themes. Series like 'The 100' have redefined the landscape, blending post-apocalyptic settings with intricate moral dilemmas and compelling human relationships. But the roots run far deeper and wider.

Before Clarke and Bellamy faced the dangers of a ravaged Earth, Jack Shephard and a band of plane crash survivors were battling the mysteries of 'Lost's' enigmatic island. Before that, the reality show 'Survivor' turned the genre into must-see TV, catapulting ordinary people into extraordinary situations where alliances were forged and broken in the pursuit of a million-dollar prize. Even 'The Walking Dead', with its hordes of undead, is at its core a survival story, where the bonds of family and community are tested in the face of unimaginable horror.

But the genre isn't confined to television screens. Movies like 'Alive,' a harrowing true story of a rugby team stranded in the Andes, and 'The Road,' a bleak but ultimately hopeful tale of a father and son navigating a post-apocalyptic landscape, offer equally powerful explorations of the will to live. And let's not forget 'Cast Away,' a masterclass in minimalist storytelling that leaves you contemplating the importance of connection in a world where we are becoming increasingly isolated.

Whether you're drawn to the grounded realism of 'Touching the Void', the sci-fi thrills of 'Battlestar Galactica', or the darkly comedic approach of 'The Last Man on Earth', this list offers a diverse range of survival stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Each one poses the fundamental question: what would you do to survive?

8. Survivor (2000)

'Survivor' is the OG reality show that throws contestants into the wilderness and challenges them to outwit, outplay, and outlast each other. While not post-apocalyptic, it's a real-life example of people testing their limits, both physically and mentally, to survive in harsh conditions. The social dynamics and strategic gameplay are fascinating to watch as alliances form and betrayals unfold. If you enjoy seeing how people cope under pressure and the lengths they'll go to win, 'Survivor' is a must-watch. Did you know that 'Survivor' is based on a Swedish television series called 'Expedition Robinson', which premiered in 1997?

Survivor

7. The Last Man on Earth (2015)

For a comedic twist on the survival genre, 'The Last Man on Earth' offers a lighthearted and absurd take on the apocalypse. Phil Miller, believed to be the last human on Earth, enjoys a life of freedom and self-indulgence until he encounters other survivors. The series blends dark humor with surprisingly poignant moments as the group attempts to rebuild society and navigate their quirky relationships. While not as intense as other survival dramas, 'The Last Man on Earth' provides a unique and entertaining perspective on the human need for connection and the challenges of starting over. Will Forte, the creator and star of the series, drew inspiration from classic comedies like 'The Simpsons' and 'Seinfeld' when developing the show's humor.

The Last Man on Earth

6. Revolution (2012)

In 'Revolution', the world is plunged into darkness when all electricity suddenly vanishes. Years later, a group of survivors must navigate a dangerous landscape ruled by militias and warlords as they search for a way to restore power. The series combines elements of post-apocalyptic drama with action and adventure. As characters fight to survive and uncover the mystery behind the blackout, they confront moral dilemmas and form unlikely alliances. While the series was cancelled after two seasons, it offers an engaging glimpse into a world without technology and the human spirit's resilience. A fun fact: 'Revolution' was created by Eric Kripke, the same mind behind the hit series 'Supernatural'.

Revolution

5. Terra Nova (2011)

'Terra Nova' takes the survival theme to prehistoric times. In a future where Earth is on the brink of collapse, a family joins a colony that travels back in time to establish a new civilization in the Cretaceous period. The colonists face the challenges of adapting to a primitive environment, encountering dinosaurs, and dealing with internal conflicts within the colony. While the series only lasted for one season, it offers an interesting take on the survival genre by combining elements of science fiction, adventure, and family drama. Did you know that Steven Spielberg served as an executive producer on 'Terra Nova', bringing his expertise in blockbuster storytelling to the series.

Terra Nova

4. Lost (2004)

Stranded on a mysterious island after a plane crash, the survivors of 'Lost' must learn to work together to stay alive. As they explore their surroundings, they uncover secrets and encounter strange phenomena that challenge their understanding of reality. 'Lost' is a masterclass in character development and suspenseful storytelling, with each episode revealing new layers of the island's mysteries and the survivors' backstories. The series weaves together elements of science fiction, fantasy, and drama to create a unique and captivating viewing experience. Be prepared for plenty of twists and turns, as well as thought-provoking themes about fate, free will, and the interconnectedness of human lives. A curious detail: The numbers 4, 8, 15, 16, 23, and 42 appear throughout the series, holding a significant meaning within the show's mythology.

Lost

3. The Walking Dead (2010)

'The Walking Dead' is a visceral and unrelenting portrayal of survival in a world overrun by zombies. The series follows a group of survivors as they navigate the dangers of both the undead and the living, who often prove to be just as, if not more, dangerous. What sets 'The Walking Dead' apart is its exploration of the human condition in the face of unimaginable horror. Characters are forced to make impossible choices, and the show doesn't shy away from depicting the brutal realities of their new world. The series delivers plenty of suspense, gore, and emotional depth as it delves into the complexities of human relationships amidst chaos. Fun fact: The show's zombie makeup effects are so realistic that they've become iconic in pop culture.

The Walking Dead

2. Battlestar Galactica (2004)

Considered by many as one of the greatest sci-fi series ever made, 'Battlestar Galactica' reimagines the classic 1978 series with a darker, more realistic tone. After a devastating attack by the Cylons, a fleet of human survivors must journey across the galaxy in search of a new home. The series excels at portraying the psychological toll of constant threat and the struggle to maintain hope in the face of overwhelming odds. Expect intense space battles, political intrigue, and profound philosophical questions about what it means to be human. The show's grittiness and focus on character-driven stories set it apart, offering a compelling look at survival in the bleakest of circumstances. It's a survival story on a galactic scale.

Battlestar Galactica

1. The 100 (2014)

If you're searching for a series that captures the essence of survival against all odds, look no further. 'The 100' masterfully blends post-apocalyptic drama with complex moral dilemmas. The story kicks off with a group of juvenile delinquents sent back to a ravaged Earth to determine its habitability. What follows is a rollercoaster of alliances, betrayals, and hard choices as they face not only the dangers of a mutated planet but also warring factions of survivors. Prepare for gripping plot twists and character development that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The series doesn't shy away from exploring the gray areas of humanity, making it a thought-provoking and intense viewing experience.

The 100

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