Survival movies have captivated audiences since the days of silent film, offering a fascinating look at human struggle in extreme conditions. However, this genre often risks becoming repetitive by following the same narrative arc: the hero triumphs and survives. The Great Flood, the new Korean thriller from Netflix, proposes an innovative twist that not only renews interest in the genre but also incorporates elements of science fiction into its climactic narrative.
A catastrophe with great emotions
The plot follows Gu An-na, played by Kim Da-mi, who finds herself trapped in her three-story apartment while a cataclysmic flood ravages her home. The story, which begins as a typical survival tale, quickly transforms when it is revealed that her son, Ja-in, is not actually her biological son, but an artificial intelligence experiment designed to replicate human emotions. As An-na tries to save Ja-in and reach the rooftop for shelter, she becomes embroiled in an intriguing time loop that forces her to relive the same day over and over again.
The narration of The Great Flood is enriched with the use of CGI, creating desolate environments submerged in golden digital dust. As An-na goes through this cyclical experience, she has the opportunity to explore her memories and learn about her own research, which could be key to the survival of humanity. With comparisons to titles like Edge of Tomorrow, Don’t Look Up, and The Poseidon Adventure, this film is not only a thriller and a climate allegory but also an exploration of family ties and identity in a context of desolation. The Great Flood could become the most surprising film of 2025, attracting viewers looking for something more than the classic survival story.
