Adventure and Solitude: 10 Stunning Movies About Deserted Islands

From adaptations of Stevenson and Jules Verne to clever comedies and heartfelt dramas, these films offer a captivating escape from the chaos of daily life.

10. The Beach

The Beach

• USA, UK, 2000.
• Adventure, Drama, Romance.
• Duration: 119 minutes.
• IMDb: 6.7.

A young American named Richard embarks on a quest for adventure. While in Thailand, he discovers a map leading to a mysterious island inhabited by a commune where everyone lives in equality and happiness. Richard sets out to find this earthly paradise, but soon realizes that even paradise has its challenges.

This film is the result of collaboration among several talented artists. It is based on a novel by Alex Garland, who later wrote "Ex Machina" and "Annihilation." Directed by the acclaimed Danny Boyle, known for "Trainspotting," it stars Leonardo DiCaprio, who rose to fame after "Titanic." Interestingly, Ewan McGregor was initially cast as Richard but was replaced, leading to a long-standing rift with Boyle.

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9. Robinson Crusoe

Robinson Crusoe

• Mexico, USA, 1954.
• Adventure, Drama.
• Duration: 90 minutes.
• IMDb: 6.7.

This adaptation of Daniel Defoe's classic novel tells the story of a sailor from York who survives a shipwreck and finds himself stranded on a deserted island. Initially alone, he later befriends a native man he names Friday.

Directed by Spanish filmmaker Luis Buñuel after relocating to Mexico, the film marks his English-language debut. Known for surrealist works, Buñuel stays close to the original plot in this movie, which opened doors for him in American cinema.

8. Mr. Robinson

Il signor Robinson, mostruosa storia d’amore e d’avventure

• Italy, 1976.
• Comedy, Adventure, Romance.
• Duration: 107 minutes.
• IMDb: 6.7.

Roberto Minghelli, a Milanese clothing store owner, survives a shipwreck and ends up on a deserted island, essentially becoming a modern-day Robinson Crusoe. Accustomed to civilization's comforts, Roberto not only struggles for food and shelter but also tries to replace his TV and nightlife. His Friday is a beautiful native woman.

It's surprising that Sergio Corbucci, known for the gritty "Django," directed this lighthearted parody of adventure classics. Paolo Villaggio, famous for the comedic "Fantozzi" series, stars in the lead role. The film also popularized model Zeudi Araya, who was rising in erotic comedy roles at the time.

7. Lord of the Flies

Lord of the Flies

• UK, 1963.
• Adventure, Drama, Thriller.
• Duration: 92 minutes.
• IMDb: 6.9.

A group of schoolboys survive a plane crash and find themselves on a deserted island. Without adults, they establish rules for duties, fire maintenance, and speaking order at meetings. However, not all agree to these rules, leading to a division into two factions.

Based on William Golding's dystopian novel, much of the film features improvisations by young actors. Director Peter Brook encouraged memorizing lines but allowed freedom during filming.

Ironically, none of the young actors attended the premiere due to the film's mature rating for its intense scenes, despite the actors being children themselves.

6. Treasure Island

• USSR, 1972.
• Adventure.
• Duration: 82 minutes.
• IMDb: 6.9.

In the Admiral Benbow tavern where young Jim Hawkins works, pirate Billy Bones arrives, hiding from former comrades who seek a treasure map. Before his death, Billy Bones entrusts Jim with the map, prompting a quest for buried treasure. However, pirates infiltrate the crew disguised as sailors.

Robert Louis Stevenson's classic adventure novel has been adapted over a dozen times. The USSR produced three versions, with the animated film by David Cherkassky being the most beloved. Yet, Yevgeny Fridman's live-action adaptation is notable, especially for Alexey Rybnikov's brilliant score.

5. The Mysterious Island

• USSR, 1941.
• Adventure, Sci-Fi.
• Duration: 75 minutes.
• IMDb: 7.0.

During the American Civil War, several prisoners escape a besieged city via hot air balloon. A hurricane carries them to a deserted island where they must adapt to the wild environment with minimal resources.

The first adaptation of Jules Verne's "The Mysterious Island" was made in the USA in 1929. However, the Soviet version directed by Eduard Pentslin, starring the remarkable Alexey Krasnopolskiy, became a legendary classic that still captivates audiences.

4. The Admirable Crichton

The Admirable Crichton

• UK, USA, 1957.
• Comedy.
• Duration: 94 minutes.
• IMDb: 7.1.

William Crichton, an experienced butler, serves the Loughton family and never imagines a different life. When the entire party and staff embark on a voyage, their ship explodes. Stranded on an island, it's clear that Crichton must lead, as he is best equipped to handle the wild conditions.

This comedic film by Lewis Gilbert, who later directed several James Bond movies, plays with the classic theme of role reversal under pressure, all without heavy drama. The film is especially beloved for Kenneth More's outstanding performance.

3. Swiss Family Robinson

Swiss Family Robinson

• USA, 1960.
• Adventure.
• Duration: 126 minutes.
• IMDb: 7.2.

The Robinson family, with three sons, moves to a colony in New Guinea. Pirates attack their ship, causing the crew to flee and leaving the family stranded. The shipwrecked family must build a new home on the island while fending off pirate threats.

Based on Johann David Wyss's novel, adapted twice in the 1940s, this Walt Disney version is the most popular, partly due to the stunning location on the island of Tobago.

Despite the beautiful setting, the cast and crew faced challenges including scorpions, snakes, barracudas, quicksand, scorching sun, and insects, not to mention scenes involving animals managed by 14 trainers.

2. Swept Away by an Unusual Destiny in the Blue Sea of August

Travolti da un insolito destino nell’azzurro mare d’agosto

• Italy, 1974.
• Adventure, Romance, Comedy.
• Duration: 114 minutes.
• IMDb: 7.6.

Wealthy beauty Raffaella looks down on the working class, often voicing harsh judgments. One day, she becomes stranded at sea with a poor communist man named Gennarino. Upon reaching an island, their roles reverse: the man becomes the leader, and Raffaella must obey.

Oscar-winning director Lina Wertmüller blends political dialogue with a romantic comedy about class differences, delivering the story with humor and heart.

In 2002, Guy Ritchie directed a remake titled "Swept Away," starring Madonna. The remake was a critical failure and is considered the director's weakest work.

1. Cast Away

Cast Away

• USA, 2000.
• Drama, Romance, Adventure.
• Duration: 143 minutes.
• IMDb: 7.8.

Delivery worker Chuck Noland travels to Malaysia for business. His plane crashes into the ocean, and Chuck is the sole survivor who washes up on a deserted island, where he must survive completely alone.

This emotional film starring Tom Hanks vividly portrays loneliness and despair in a dire situation. A volleyball named Wilson becomes Chuck's imaginary companion, symbolizing his struggle. Viewers also speculate about the unopened package Chuck carries.

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Which deserted island movies are your favorites? Do you prefer classic adaptations or comedic adventures? Or maybe your top pick didn’t make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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