Advertisement
Zombies have been a popular theme in movies and literature for decades, and this year is no exception. The Last of Us has been one of the most talked-about zombie films this year, thrilling viewers with its intense plot and emotional depth.
Are you looking for similar zombie movies that can give you the same thrill? We have compiled a list of some of the best zombie apocalypse movies that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
From horror classics to more recent releases, these films will take you into a world where humans are fighting to survive against hordes of zombies.
10 Best Zombie Movies You Should Not Miss
1. “Night of the Living Dead” (1968)
Brace yourself for the ultimate horror classic that started it all – “Night of the Living Dead” (1968) will take you on a bone-chilling journey into the depths of terror.
As one of the most iconic horror films of all time, “Night of the Living Dead” stands the test of time and continues to be a masterpiece of the genre. Directed by George A. Romero, this black-and-white film is an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling frightened and uneasy long after the credits roll.
The plot follows a group of strangers who are trapped in a farmhouse during a zombie apocalypse. As they fight for survival, tensions rise, and alliances are formed and broken. The zombies themselves are hauntingly portrayed as mindless, flesh-eating monsters, adding an extra layer of horror to an already terrifying scenario.
What sets “Night of the Living Dead” apart from other horror films is its commentary on society and race relations. The film was made during a time of civil unrest in America, and Romero used the zombie apocalypse as a metaphor for the social and political issues of the time.
The film’s climax is a shocking and unforgettable scene that will stay with you long after the movie ends. It’s a testament to the film’s legacy that it’s still able to elicit fear and unease from modern audiences, over fifty years after its initial release.
2. ”Dawn of the Dead” (1978)
Get ready for an apocalyptic shopping spree that will leave you on the edge of your seat – “Dawn of the Dead” (1978) is a zombie film like no other.
“Dawn of the Dead” is a classic horror film directed by George A. Romero, and it’s widely regarded as one of the best zombie movies of all time. The film takes place in a world overrun by zombies, and it follows a group of survivors who take refuge in a shopping mall.
What sets “Dawn of the Dead” apart from other zombie films is its clever social commentary on consumerism and materialism. The mall becomes a symbol of modern society’s obsession with consumer culture, and the zombies represent mindless consumers who are unable to resist the lure of consumer goods.
The film’s use of practical effects and makeup is also impressive, and the gore and violence are shocking even by modern standards. But what really sets “Dawn of the Dead” apart is its ability to balance horror and humor, making it a thrilling and entertaining experience from start to finish.
The characters are well-developed, and the performances are excellent, especially from lead actress Gaylen Ross. The film’s climax is intense and thrilling, and it will leave you breathless.
3. “Shaun of the Dead” (2004)
Ready for a hilarious and bloody good time? Look no further than “Shaun of the Dead” (2004) – a horror-comedy that will have you laughing and screaming in equal measure.
Directed by Edgar Wright and starring Simon Pegg, “Shaun of the Dead” is a unique blend of humor and horror that has become a cult classic. The film follows Shaun, an underachieving salesman who must save his friends and family from a zombie invasion.
What sets “Shaun of the Dead” apart from other zombie films is its ability to seamlessly combine humor and horror. The film is filled with witty one-liners and hilarious physical comedy, but it also doesn’t shy away from the gore and violence that comes with the zombie genre.
The film’s characters are relatable and likable, and the performances are excellent, especially from Pegg and his co-star Nick Frost. The film also features clever nods to classic horror films, adding an extra layer of depth and appreciation for fans of the genre.
But what really sets “Shaun of the Dead” apart is its heart. The film’s central theme is about growing up and taking responsibility, and it’s a surprisingly touching and emotional message that is expertly woven into the film’s humor and horror elements.
4. “28 Days Later” (2002)
Brace yourself for a terrifying journey through a post-apocalyptic world – “28 Days Later” (2002) is a horror film that will leave you breathless.
Directed by Danny Boyle and starring Cillian Murphy, “28 Days Later” is a British horror film that has become a cult classic. The film takes place in a world where a virus has turned most of the population into ravenous, fast-moving zombies.
What sets “28 Days Later” apart from other zombie films is its unique and innovative take on the genre. The fast-moving zombies are a new and terrifying addition to the genre, and the film’s use of digital photography gives it a gritty and realistic feel.
The film’s characters are well-developed, and the performances are excellent, especially from Murphy as the film’s protagonist. The film also features stunning cinematography, with haunting and memorable shots of an empty London and its surrounding countryside.
But what really sets “28 Days Later” apart is its ability to balance horror with social commentary. The film explores themes of isolation, survival, and the breakdown of society in the face of a global pandemic. It’s a thought-provoking and relevant message that resonates even more strongly in today’s world.
The film’s climax is a heart-pumping and unforgettable scene that will leave you on the edge of your seat. It’s a testament to the film’s skillful direction and storytelling that it’s able to elicit such a strong emotional response from its audience.
5. “Zombieland” (2009)
Looking for a hilarious and action-packed adventure through a zombie-infested America? Look no further than “Zombieland” (2009) – a film that will leave you both laughing and cheering.
Directed by Ruben Fleischer and starring Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone, and Abigail Breslin, “Zombieland” is a horror-comedy that has become a fan favorite. The film follows a group of survivors as they travel across the country, fighting zombies and learning to trust each other in a world where the rules have changed.
What sets “Zombieland” apart from other zombie films is its irreverent humor and high-octane action sequences. The film is filled with witty one-liners, pop culture references, and hilarious character interactions that will have you laughing out loud.
The film’s characters are well-developed, and the performances are excellent, especially from Harrelson as the tough-as-nails zombie hunter, Tallahassee. The film also features some of the most memorable zombies kills in film history, adding an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the film.
But what really sets “Zombieland” apart is its heart. The film’s central theme is about finding family and connection in a world where both are hard to come by. It’s a surprisingly touching and emotional message that is expertly woven into the film’s humor and action elements.
The film’s climax is a thrilling and satisfying conclusion that will leave you cheering for the characters and wanting more. It’s a testament to the film’s skillful direction and storytelling that it’s able to balance humor, heart, and action so well.
CHECK ALSO:
6. “The Walking Dead” (2010-2022)
Enter the world of the undead and human survival with “The Walking Dead” (2010-2022) – a television series that will take you on an emotional and thrilling journey through a post-apocalyptic world.
Created by Frank Darabont and based on the comic book series by Robert Kirkman, “The Walking Dead” is a television show that has become a cultural phenomenon. The series follows a group of survivors as they navigate a world overrun by zombies, known as walkers.
What sets “The Walking Dead” apart from other zombie media is its focus on character development and relationships. The show is known for its complex and well-developed characters, whose struggles and triumphs are just as important as the zombie threat.
The show’s cast is stellar, with standout performances from Andrew Lincoln as the leader, Rick Grimes, and Melissa McBride as the fan-favorite character, Carol Peletier. The show also features stunning cinematography and impressive practical effects that bring the undead to life.
But what really sets “The Walking Dead” apart is its ability to tackle difficult and thought-provoking themes. The show explores the lengths people will go to survive, the cost of leadership, and the moral complexities of living in a world where the rules have changed.
The show’s numerous twists and turns keep viewers on the edge of their seats, and its emotional and heart-wrenching moments have become iconic in television history. “The Walking Dead” has become more than just a show – it’s a cultural touchstone that has spawned spin-offs, merchandise, and a passionate fanbase.
7. “World War Z” (2013)
Are you ready for a zombie movie that takes the genre to a whole new level? Look no further than “World War Z” (2013) – a film that will leave you on the edge of your seat and breathless.
Directed by Marc Forster and starring Brad Pitt, “World War Z” is a fast-paced and intense zombie movie that takes place on a global scale. The film follows Gerry Lane (Pitt), a former United Nations investigator who is forced to leave his family and travel the world to find a cure for a zombie pandemic that is threatening to wipe out humanity.
What sets “World War Z” apart from other zombie films is its epic scope and high stakes. The film is a thrilling ride from start to finish, with incredible action sequences, stunning visuals, and heart-pumping suspense.
The film’s zombies are some of the scariest in recent memory, with their fast and frenzied movements adding an extra layer of terror to the film. But what really sets “World War Z” apart is its intelligent approach to the zombie genre, as it explores the global impact of a pandemic and the various ways different countries and cultures would respond to such a crisis.
The film’s cast is excellent, with Pitt delivering a strong and charismatic performance as the film’s lead. The supporting cast is also impressive, with standout performances from Daniella Kertesz as a tough Israeli soldier and Mireille Enos as Lane’s wife.
But what really sets “World War Z” apart is its expertly crafted storytelling. The film is able to balance intense action and suspense with deeper themes of family, sacrifice, and humanity’s will to survive.
8. ”Train to Busan” (2016)
Get ready for a zombie movie like no other – “Train to Busan” (2016) is a heart-pumping thrill ride that will have you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, “Train to Busan” is a South Korean zombie movie that takes place almost entirely on a train traveling from Seoul to Busan. The film follows Seok-woo (Gong Yoo), a workaholic father who is taking his young daughter to see her mother in Busan. But their journey takes a deadly turn when a zombie outbreak occurs and they must fight for survival.
What sets “Train to Busan” apart from other zombie movies is its expert pacing and tension-building. The film starts off slow, allowing the audience to get to know the characters and their relationships, before quickly ramping up the intensity with some of the most thrilling and heart-stopping action scenes in recent memory.
The film’s zombies are also unique and terrifying, with their fast and frenzied movements adding an extra layer of terror to the already intense situation. But what really sets “Train to Busan” apart is its emotional core, as it explores themes of sacrifice, love, and family in the face of adversity.
The film’s cast is excellent, with standout performances from Gong Yoo as the lead and Kim Su-an as his daughter. The supporting cast is also impressive, with each character given their moment to shine in the midst of the chaos.
But what really makes “Train to Busan” stand out is its ability to balance intense action and suspense with emotional depth and heart. The film will have you cheering for the characters, crying at their losses, and biting your nails in anticipation of what’s to come.
9. ”Resident Evil” (2002-2016)
Ready to step into a post-apocalyptic world filled with zombies, action, and suspense? Look no further than the “Resident Evil” film series (2002-2016), which will take you on a thrilling journey through a world gone mad.
Based on the popular video game franchise of the same name, “Resident Evil” follows Alice (Milla Jovovich), a former employee of the evil Umbrella Corporation, as she battles zombies and other monstrosities created by the corporation’s experiments.
What sets the “Resident Evil” film series apart from other zombie movies is its focus on action and adventure. The films are filled with epic fight scenes, intense shootouts, and mind-blowing special effects that will have you on the edge of your seat.
But the series also has its fair share of scares, with the zombies and other creatures created by Umbrella Corporation being some of the most terrifying in the genre. The films also explore themes of corporate greed, betrayal, and survival in a world gone mad.
Milla Jovovich delivers a standout performance as Alice, a tough and resourceful hero who is willing to do whatever it takes to survive and protect those she cares about. The supporting cast is also impressive, with standout performances from Michelle Rodriguez, Ali Larter, and Iain Glen.
What really makes the “Resident Evil” series stand out is its ability to consistently deliver thrills, action, and scares over the course of six films. Each film builds on the world and characters established in the previous installment, creating a rich and immersive cinematic universe that fans of the franchise will love.
10. “I Am Legend” (2007)
“I Am Legend” is not just another zombie movie, it’s a post-apocalyptic masterpiece that will leave you both terrified and emotionally moved.
Based on the novel by Richard Matheson, “I Am Legend” follows the last man on Earth, Dr. Robert Neville (Will Smith), as he tries to find a cure for the virus that has turned the majority of humanity into savage, vampire-like creatures. As Neville struggles to survive in a deserted New York City, he must also confront his own isolation and loneliness, as well as the haunting memories of his past.
What sets “I Am Legend” apart from other zombie movies is the emotional depth of Will Smith’s performance as Dr. Neville. Smith delivers a nuanced portrayal of a man struggling to hold onto his sanity and humanity in a world that has lost both. His character’s relationship with his only companion, a loyal dog named Samantha, adds an additional layer of heart-wrenching emotion to the film.
But “I Am Legend” is not just a character study, it’s also a terrifying horror movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The vampire-like creatures, known as Darkseekers, are some of the most frightening and realistic depictions of zombies in cinema. The film’s use of practical effects and makeup, rather than relying solely on CGI, adds to the visceral terror of the creatures.
Director Francis Lawrence also deserves praise for his stunning visual direction, particularly in the scenes of a deserted New York City. The empty streets and overgrown buildings create a hauntingly beautiful and eerie atmosphere that adds to the film’s sense of isolation and desperation.
CHECK ALSO:
Advertisement
