Horror movies in general are one of the most popular genres around. Zombie movies are a huge part of this popularity as a sub-genre. These films have been popular for a very long time, providing audiences with thrills and chills for decades. For both casual and hardcore fans, familiarize yourself with some of the more popular films of both classic and recent times.
Zombies are an interesting aspect of pop culture. They take many different forms, and are utilized in a variety of ways to scare the audience. These zombies are typically defined in two forms, that of the reanimated, deceased corpse, and or that of a mindless or brainwashed living human. They can be fast or slow, as well as offering varying degrees of intelligence. However, no matter what form they take, they are generally terrifying.
Obviously, opinions will differ. However, many movies have a general consensus as classic examples of the genre. One of the most popular of this genre is “Night of the living dead”. This is a film directed by perhaps the most popular name in zombie films, George Romero. This movie, set in middle-class America, was released in 1968 as an independent black and white film that revolutionized previous thoughts on the genre.
As the second film in George Romero’s “Living Dead” series, “Dawn of the Dead” is another classic from the premiere voice of the genre. This film, released in 1978, showcases a group of survivors who hide from the zombie epidemic by barricading themselves in a shopping mall. This film is popular for it’s supposed critique of American consumerism, as well as serving as an interesting character piece.
Further exploring this formula of gore and social satire, the more recent 2003 release of “Shaun of the Dead” is considered a unique addition to the niche. Directed by Edgar Wright, this horror-comedy is somewhat unique to zombie films, but is largely considered one of the more entertaining movies in this spectrum.
2004’s remake of the classic “Dawn of the Dead” is also considered an instant classic of the zombie movie genre. Director Zach Snyder’s vision, like the original, centers on a group of survivors and their attempt at survival through barricading themselves in a mall. This remake exhibits faster and generally more psychotic zombies than the original. It is considered a faithful tribute, yet displays a new twist on the classic.
Another recent film, dubbed an instant classic, is directed by Danny Boyle and released in 2002 with the title “28 Days Later”. This film, considered a commercial and critical success, focuses on the breakdown of society and social structures through an accidental spreading of a virus. Ravenous, insane zombies provide thrills while scenes of vacant cities provide a gloomy outlook on the future.
Zombie films are an extremely popular part of the horror genre, for good reason. They are frightening and exhibit interesting subliminal themes that tackle a wide range of ideas and aspects of humanity. This is a niche with a large fan base that will be present and thriving for the foreseeable future.
