The 5th Wave is a science-fiction adventure film directed by J Blakeson, written by Susannah Grant and Akiva Goldsman, and adapted from the best-selling novel by Rick Yancey. Starring Chloë Grace Moretz, Nick Robinson and Alex Roe, this post-apocalyptic tale depicts humanity decimated by a series of alien attacks. Released in theaters in 2016, it joins the HBO Max catalog in August 2025, allowing viewers to rediscover this young adult genre production set against a backdrop of invasion.
The trailer shows a universe ravaged by alien invasions and the heroine, played by Chloë Grace Moretz, facing decisive choices for her brother's survival.
The 5th Wave will be broadcast on HBO Max from August 22, 2025.
Synopsis: Four waves of alien attacks have decimated the planet. Cassie, a teenager on the run, tries to protect her younger brother while preparing for the fifth and final wave. She meets a mysterious ally who could help her... or betray her.
The 5th Wave is based on the novel by Rick Yancey, the first volume in a trilogy that includes The Infinite Sea and The Last Star. The film follows in the footsteps of successful young adult adaptations such as Hunger Games, Divergent and The Labyrinth. It offers a combination of action, romance and science fiction aimed at teenagers and young adults.
Chloë Grace Moretz plays Cassie Sullivan, a teenager determined to survive and protect her family. The actress, revealed in Kick-Ass, lends her features to a heroine close to the figures of Katniss Everdeen or Tris Prior. Alongside her, Nick Robinson(Love, Simon) and Alex Roe(Rings) complete the cast, joined by Liev Schreiber and Maria Bello in supporting roles.
The film is aimed at fans of post-apocalyptic science fiction, but especially at fans of young adult stories centered on heroines battling superior forces. Those who have enjoyed sagas such as Twilight or The Labyrinth may find a similar atmosphere, between survival, family quest and romance.
Directed by J Blakeson, this second feature film explores themes of survival, trust and struggle in the face of the unknown. Blending adventure and science fiction, it follows the trend of adaptations of young adult novels that marked the 2010s. Its arrival on HBO Max in 2025 has given it new visibility with a generation of viewers who love tales of invasion and resistance.
This article is based on information available online; we have not yet viewed the film or series mentioned.
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