What is so fascinating about apocalyptic myths when the reality of such tragedies terrify us? 

The answer is that apocalyptic myths are fascinating because they terrify us. We keep watching these apocalyptic films because we want to be scared. Fear overtakes logic and augments the viewer's perception of the likelihood of the occurrence of an actual apocalypse. At the end of the apocalypse myth, there is a resolution which bears hope amid fear; the hope that in the case of the eschaton, you might be the one to survive and prosper, or the hope that you would be prepared because you know what's coming. When you are constantly presented with a myth like the apocalypse, it is hard to completely dismiss. The apocalypse inspires more fear the more it is adapted and retold because it continues to be relevant in our culture so it continues to be relevant in our fears. 

Apocalypse movies are set in surreal worlds that are laced with elements of reality as a way to inspire fear under the illusion of separation from this other world. In his graphic journalism piece "Apocalypse Left and Right" Dan Archer states that among the main tropes of apocalyptic cinema is historicity and that the setting of the film "happens in real time + space, in the context of human history." 

I get scared by movies very easily so I stay away from any movie that might possibly be unnerving in any way. That means I do not watch apocalyptic films. However I was fooled by the 2013 release This is the End. I thought that because it is a comedy that it would have no effect on me, but I was wrong. The comedic film uses realistic elements to make up for the lack of drama and intensity when it comes to inspiring fear. Instead of portraying characters, the actors play exaggerated versions of themselves in what disguises itself as a story of how these familiar celebrities act when they're not on camera. The film takes place in modern day Los Angeles and implements a relevant social setting-- a hip party in James Franco's mansion-- to help the viewer ease into the world in which the film takes place. The protagonists' reaction to the revelation of the apocalypse is even modern, displaying a relatable skepticism of faith. As ridiculous as it sounds, the movie scared me but I paid to see it again a week later.