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Movies set on islands have a unique allure, no matter the genre. From pristine sandy shores to the rhythmic crash of waves, island landscapes provide a perfect retreat, especially for those who are landlocked. The adaptability of island settings makes them ideal for everything from romantic escapades and glamorous getaways to intense suspense and heartbreaking dramas. Over time, islands have become a popular backdrop in both films and TV series, featured in iconic productions such as Lost, the beloved Mamma Mia!, and HBO’s island-focused show The White Lotus.
For those seeking an island adventure from the comfort of home, here are nine must-watch movies set on islands.
1. Cast Away
Cast Away (2000) is a powerful survival drama starring Tom Hanks as a dedicated FedEx systems analyst who finds himself stranded on a remote island in the South Pacific after a devastating plane crash. Unlike many other films and TV shows that explore the “stranded on an island” theme — such as Lost — Cast Away distinguishes itself through its gritty realism and raw depiction of human isolation.
The film’s heart lies in Tom Hanks’ extraordinary performance, which earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor. His portrayal masterfully captures survival’s physical and emotional toll, drawing viewers deeply into his harrowing journey. As Hanks’ character battles loneliness, despair, and the fight to stay alive, Cast Away transforms into a gripping one-man narrative that resonates long after the credits roll.
2. Mamma Mia!
Released in 2008, Mamma Mia! is a vibrant and feel-good jukebox musical that brings the unforgettable music of ABBA to life on the big screen. Set against the stunning and picturesque landscapes of the Greek islands, the story revolves around a young bride-to-be (Amanda Seyfried) who secretly invites three men from her mother’s (Meryl Streep) past to her wedding — hoping to discover which of them is her biological father who can walk her down the aisle.
While musicals might not appeal to everyone, the charm and enduring popularity of Mamma Mia! are simply undeniable. The film’s success led to sequels, stage adaptations, and a lasting legacy among fans worldwide. With its star-studded cast, catchy soundtrack, heartwarming romantic comedy elements, and breathtaking island scenery, Mamma Mia! continues to shine as a joyful, entertaining, and feel-good cinematic experience.
3. Jaws (1975)
When Jaws premiered in 1975, it became the first true summer blockbuster, leaving audiences terrified of swimming in the ocean, fearing they might become the next shark victim. Set in the fictional New England beach town of Amity Island, the film was primarily shot on location at Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Jaws is a masterpiece of storytelling, skillfully blending genuine terror with heart-pounding thrills. It has been immortalized as one of Steven Spielberg’s finest works and remains one of the greatest thrillers of all time.
4. 50 First Dates
Released in 2004, 50 First Dates is a charming rom-com starring Adam Sandler as Henry, a marine veterinarian in Hawaii, who falls for Lucy, played by Drew Barrymore. Lucy suffers from short-term memory loss and can’t recall anything from the previous day, which forces Henry to make her fall in love with him all over again each day. This unique premise gives the film its heartwarming and humorous twist. The movie follows the familiar rom-com formula, mixing laughs with genuine romance. The Sandler-Barrymore duo shines, just like in their previous hit, The Wedding Singer. While 50 First Dates may not be groundbreaking, it’s a sweet, fun movie guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
5. Shutter Island (2010)
Directed by Martin Scorsese, Shutter Island is a gripping psychological thriller featuring Leonardo DiCaprio as a U.S. Marshal investigating the mysterious disappearance of a patient from a psychiatric facility on Shutter Island. Alongside his partner, played by Mark Ruffalo, DiCaprio’s character uncovers unsettling truths as the investigation unfolds. Premiering in 2010, the film garnered positive reviews and was named one of the top 10 films of the year by the National Board of Review. Based on the 2003 novel by Dennis Lehane, Shutter Island keeps audiences on edge with its numerous twists and turns. While the plot is undeniably captivating, it’s the remarkable performances—especially Mark Ruffalo’s—that truly elevate the film.
6. Old (2021)
From the mind of M. Night Shyamalan comes Old, a gripping thriller about a group of vacationers who find themselves trapped on a tropical island where time accelerates, causing them to age rapidly and condensing their entire lifespan into just one day. Based on the sci-fi graphic novel Sandcastle by Frederik Peeters, the film debuted in 2021. While it achieved box office success, Old received mixed reviews from critics. The concept is both unique and thought-provoking, though it sometimes feels like the ideas aren’t fully explored. Although this may not be an island you’d want to visit in reality, the film offers an intriguing watch.
7. The Rock (1996)
This 1996 action/thriller follows an FBI chemical warfare expert (Nicolas Cage), a British spy (Sean Connery), and a team of Navy SEALs as they race against time to prevent a rogue general from launching chemical weapons from Alcatraz Island into San Francisco. While Alcatraz might not immediately come to mind for island-themed movies, The Rock certainly earns its place on this list. It masterfully blends action with suspense, creating an adrenaline-pumping, thrilling experience.
8. Fantasy Island (2020)
Fantasy Island follows a group of guests who visit a mysterious island where the enigmatic Mr. Roarke (Michael Peña) fulfils their deepest fantasies. However, their dreams quickly turn into nightmares, and they must uncover the island’s dark secrets to survive. Released in 2020, this horror film, produced by Blumhouse, is a reimagining of the 1977 TV show of the same name. While the concept is intriguing and has the potential to be both terrifying and innovative, the film ultimately falls into clichés and doesn’t fully live up to expectations. Still, it’s worth watching for the breathtaking views of the tropical resort.
9. A Perfect Getaway (2009)
Released in 2009, A Perfect Getaway is an engaging thriller that centres around two vacationing couples in Hawaii, whose dream getaway turns into a terrifying fight for survival when a series of brutal murders rocks the island. As paranoia sets in, suspicion begins to grow — with the chilling possibility that the killer might be among them.
While the film follows a classic “whodunnit” formula with a clever slasher twist, making certain plot points somewhat predictable, it still manages to hold the audience’s attention with its gripping storyline. A Perfect Getaway effectively combines tense suspense, bursts of dark humour, and stunning visuals of both Hawaii and Puerto Rico, creating a thrilling and visually captivating experience that keeps viewers guessing until the very end.
Conclusion
Here’s a recap of the top island movies that deliver everything from intense suspense to delightful romance. Whether you’re in the mood for a gripping survival tale, a light-hearted musical, or a mind-bending thriller, these films use the island setting in truly unique ways. The island, often isolated and mysterious, provides the perfect backdrop for extraordinary stories, enhancing the thrill and drama.
These island-based movies explore a range of emotions and situations, allowing filmmakers to utilize the setting to create unforgettable experiences. From life-or-death survival scenarios to characters discovering love in the most unlikely places, these movies prove that islands offer more than just scenic beauty. They become central characters, shaping the plot and influencing the lives of those who set foot on them.
One of the fascinating aspects of island adventure films is how they highlight human resilience and survival instincts. The isolation, rugged terrain, and unique challenges presented by the environment can bring out the best and worst in people. Whether it’s facing wild animals, natural disasters, or psychological breakdowns, the island’s role in testing human limits adds depth to the stories.
So, grab some popcorn and let these island-themed films take you to a world where the setting is just as captivating as the story itself. With breathtaking visuals and diverse genres, these films showcase the versatility of the island setting, turning it into an integral part of the cinematic experience. Each adventure is a reminder of how powerful a simple location can be in crafting unforgettable narratives.
