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Earth Abides is a latest post-apocalyptic TV show on MGM+ that has caught the interest of sci-fi fans. Based on George R. Stewart's novel that was released back in 1949, the thrilling narrative showcases how most of mankind succumbs to a deadly virus. The protagonist, Ish, portrayed by Alexander Ludwig, manages to survive it and eventually makes up his mind to help develop a new civilization.
As of now, only one episode of Earth Abides has been released but the show has already made a strong impression on viewers who are looking forward to seeing where the story takes them. New episodes are expected to release every Sunday with the finale coming in on December 29, 2024.
While the fans of Earth Abides wait for its finale, they can indulge in the well-executed shows on this list that broach similar concepts and themes.
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Disclaimer: This list contains information from various sources.
The Rain and seven other shows like Earth Abides that explores what it takes to survive in harsh conditions
1) The Rain (2018)
In Earth Abides, Ish's life changes rapidly after he ventures out of the mountain cabin. Similarly in The Rain, two siblings, Simone and Rasmus, have to wrap their heads around a new reality after emerging from a bunker where their father had left them to protect them from virus-carrying rainfall. Alba August and Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen play the lead roles.
As the virus has claimed most of civilization, the duo joins forces with other young survivors and embark on a dangerous quest to find a safe haven. At its core, it is a story of survival but it also boasts elements of mystery as no one is quite sure of the real reason behind the disastrous turn of events.
It is no secret that post-apocalyptic shows can get predictable but this Danish show, containing three seasons and 30 episodes, adds enough refreshing twists and unexpected plot progressions to keep viewers invested. It will particularly appeal to viewers who enjoy Young Adult narratives.
Where to watch: The Rain is available for streaming on Netflix.
2) Daybreak (2019)
Ish learns soon enough in Earth Abides that life without meaningful human connection is lonely and distressing. The young protagonist of Daybreak also understands the need for companionship when he is faced with an apocalypse which transforms adults into zombie-like creatures.
Josh Wheeler, portrayed by Colin Ford, is a transfer student who has to navigate high school cliques turned Mad Max-style gangs to find his missing girlfriend. This ten-episode show has earned much praise from viewers for its exciting action scenes and quality CGI.
Most post-apocalyptic shows, Earth Abides included, tend to take the serious route. But Daybreak breaks away from traditions to infuse humorous dialogue and light-hearted moments which makes for a satisfying watch.
Where to watch: Episodes of Daybreak are available on Netflix.
3) To The Lake (2019)
Post-apocalyptic survivors, like Ish from Earth Abides, don't really have a manual to help them navigate the challenges they come across on a daily basis. They mostly rely on their instincts to guide them. The same is the case with the central characters in To The Lake who believe that the only way they can save themselves from an epidemic is to make their way to a secluded location.
In the lead is Kirill Käro who plays Sergey. The plot focuses on a deadly virus that starts killing residents in Moscow. In order to survive, Sergey's group members, including his ex-wife, son, second wife, her autistic son, his father, and a neighboring family, head to a refuge ship converted into a camping cabin on a deserted island.
Containing two seasons and 16 episodes, To The Lake thrives on the complex dynamics of the unlikely group who are dealing with the pressures of the situation in their own ways. It is also endearing to watch how their relationships evolve once they learn to look beyond their differences and start to trust each other.
Where to watch: To The Lake can be streamed on Netflix.
4) Black Summer (2019)
Even though Earth Abides doesn't feature the undead, the survivors still have to stay alert every day in order to protect themselves from possible threats. This sense of foreboding is intensified in Black Summer which captures the early days of a zombie apocalypse. Jaime King plays Rose, a loving mother who gets separated from her daughter and will do anything to find her.
This show, containing two seasons and 16 episodes, is packed with impressive jump scares and unpredictable twists. Yes, like a lot of apocalyptic shows, Black Summer features characters who make ill-advised decisions every now and then but they are still interesting enough for the audience to be able to connect with them.
Unlike Earth Abides, Black Summer is a lot more action-packed as the survivors have to fend off zombies at every turn, which lends help to a fast-paced narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Where to watch: Black Summer is available for streaming on Netflix.
5) The Stand (2020)
The premise of Earth Abides is especially enticing because Ish will have the opportunity to rebuild society as he sees fit. However, a blank slate can shatter in the hands of the wrong people and that is exactly what The Stand wants to showcase.
Containing nine episodes in total, this show is based on Stephen King's novel and stars James Marsden, Alexander Skarsgård, Whoopi Goldberg, Odessa Young, and more. After a lethal strain of influenza kills almost all of the world's population, survivors choose to follow one of two influential figures who are gearing up for a good versus evil battle.
Like Earth Abides, The Stand also raises important questions about how people will always have a choice between taking the easy route and doing the right thing. The deliberate and detailed introduction of the characters makes the audience feel compelled to take an interest in their journey.
Where to watch: Episodes of The Stand can be viewed on Paramount+, Apple TV+ and Prime Video.
6) Into the Night (2020)
In the first episode of Earth Abides, Ish remains hopeful that he will find other survivors and that optimism is helping him keep sane. Likewise, in Into The Night, faith helps unite people from different walks of life who need to work together in order to stay alive in the face of an unprecedented disaster.
Stefano Cassetti plays Terenzio, an Italian NATO soldier who hijacks a red-eye flight. He informs the crew and passengers of a global event wherein exposure to sunlight is connected to mass deaths. After an early take-off, they make plans to keep the Sun behind them long enough to reach an underground military bunker.
Spanning two seasons and 12 episodes, Into the Night never has a dull moment. There is always something happening on screen and the clever writing divulges just enough without giving away the ending. It is also interesting how each episode focuses on a different character which helps the audience view the story from various angles.
Where to watch: Into the Night can be streamed on Netflix.
7) Love You as the World Ends (2021)
Like Ish in Earth Abides, the protagonist of Love You as the World Ends, Hibiki Mamiya, played by Ryoma Takeuchi, is shocked when he realizes that the majority of the population has lost their lives due to an apocalypse. Hibiki gets cut off from the rest of civilization when he gets trapped in a tunnel collapse. By the time he makes his way out, it is a full-blown zombie invasion.
He then decides to go looking for his girlfriend, Kurumi Ogasawara, portrayed by Ayami Nakajo. On this journey, he meets old friends and makes some new ones. This Japanese drama contains five seasons and 32 episodes.
Even though the narrative is centered around the threat of the zombies, it isn't the undead that is the main highlight of the show. The true star has to be the clever writing that focuses on the human connections and the moral dilemmas the characters have to face.
Where to watch: Love You as the World Ends is available for streaming on Netflix and Apple TV+.
8) The Last of Us (2023)
One of the most talked about post-apocalyptic dramas in recent times, The Last of Us is based on the popular video game franchise of the same name. Like Earth Abides, the world depicted in The Last of Us bears the brunt of a deadly infectious disease and the ensuing collapse of society.
Pedro Pascal plays Joel, a smuggler who is tasked with escorting Bella Ramsey's character, Ellie, across the United States. Protecting Ellie is top priority because she may hold the key to a possible vaccine.
Like Earth Abides, The Last of Us introduces relatable characters who the audience will actually care about. There is no doubt that the chemistry between Pascal and Ramsey elevates the storytelling and is one the biggest reasons to tune in. It's commedable how the show embraces the events of the game, but also puts a little spin on it so that it is nostalgic and yet also refreshing.
Where to watch: The Last of Us, containing nine episodes, can be streamed on Max, Hulu, Apple TV+ and Prime Video.
These engaging titles are perfect for fans of Earth Abides as they boast the right mix of likable characters, unexpected revelations and memorable moments.
