Why are we so in love with the apocalypse? My guess comes in two parts:

(1)is that our lives, in America, are so generally safe and predictable that there is a need for drama and excitement, and that need is met through these stories. (See just about any adolescent boy.)

(2) is that there are those out there that hate, hate, hate American society for being so wealthy and overpowering and produce these movies to rid themselves of the desire to scourge americans for that sin. (See James Wolcott and how much he loves hurricanes.)