The Walking Dead has undeniably established itself as a cornerstone of modern zombie television, drawing deep inspiration from the rich legacy of classic horror films. This groundbreaking series masterfully combines elements of horror with expansive survival themes, while its various spinoffs pay tribute to the traditions of zombie storytelling. The innovative designs of zombies in the show bear the fingerprints of classic horror cinema, enriching the viewing experience for fans.
For fans seeking to satiate their appetite for narratives similar to those in The Walking Dead, a treasure trove of horror films awaits exploration. The zombie genre has significantly evolved, transitioning through numerous phases over the decades, yet certain motifs remain timeless. Zombies captivate audiences due to their eerie balance between the familiar and the otherworldly, presenting human attributes juxtaposed with supernatural behaviors. While recent years have seen the release of some outstanding zombie films, the classics remain ever-relevant.
10 Zombie (1979)
Directed By Lucio Fulci
Renowned as a staple in the horror genre, Zombie (also known as Zombi 2) is a testament to Lucio Fulci’s artistic vision. The thrilling narrative follows a naval officer’s encounter with a terrifying undead creature in New York City, initiating a gripping investigation led by the character Peter West, portrayed by Ian McCulloch. The film is celebrated for its graphic violence and relentless gore, utilizing practical effects that still hold up, well before the advent of CGI.
9 Night Of The Living Dead (1968)
Directed By George Romero
Considered a game-changer in the zombie genre, George Romero’s Night of the Living Dead gained immense acclaim for reshaping how zombies were perceived by American audiences. This influential film crafts a haunting atmosphere, chronicling a group of individuals barricaded in a farmhouse as the dead rise to feast on the living. The terror-driven narrative undoubtedly paved the way for influences in shows like The Walking Dead, establishing a blueprint for future horror narratives.
8 The House By The Cemetery (1981)
Directed By Lucio Fulci
Amidst the rise in popularity of zombified horror in the ’80s, The House by the Cemetery brought forth a unique narrative that merged zombie horror with elements of supernatural thrillers. Once again directed by the visionary Lucio Fulci, this film follows a scientist who discovers dark secrets in the residence of a deceased colleague, entwining the undead with a creeping, haunted atmosphere that marked a notable era in horror.
7 Let Sleeping Corpses Lie (1974)
Directed By Jorge Grau
Emerging from the inventive 1970s in horror, Let Sleeping Corpses Lie showcases the genre’s experimental spirit. The narrative revolves around a detective investigating a series of puzzling murders, ultimately tying back to zombies awakened by a lethal pest control device. It stands out as an unconventional approach to zombie storytelling, blending science fiction elements into a fresh narrative.
6 The Plague Of The Zombies (1966)
Directed By John Gilling
Pioneering the success of the zombie subgenre, The Plague of the Zombies offers a unique narrative for fans of The Walking Dead. It traces the journey of a medical professor and his daughter, who discover sinister secrets behind a dangerous virus outbreak in southern England. With stellar performances from Diane Clare and Andre Morell, this classic remains a highlight of their respective careers.
5 Re-Animator (1985)
Directed By Stuart Gordon
Seamlessly interweaving comedy into horror, Re-Animator embodies a unique melding of genres. Based on H.P. Lovecraft’s short story “Herbert West – Reanimator,” the film follows a determined medical student who believes he has discovered a method to reverse death. This exploration of sci-fi horror not only entertains but also raises unsettling questions about the ethics of resurrection.
This beloved film is currently available for streaming on Apple TV+.
4 Night Of The Creeps (1986)
Directed By Fred Dekker
In a remarkable directorial debut, Fred Dekker delivers Night of the Creeps, a film that cleverly combines humor and horror. This innovative narrative follows alien entities that infect a college student, whose cryogenically frozen remains are later discovered by fraternity brothers. It provides a fresh perspective on zombies, focusing more on creativity and humor than horror.
3 Return Of The Living Dead (1985)
Directed By Dan O’Bannon
A hallmark of 80s horror, Return of the Living Dead combines humor and horror expertly, while building on the foundations laid by earlier zombie films. Following the misadventures of two employees at a military facility who accidentally unleash a toxic substance that revives corpses, this film showcases the slow-moving, lethargic zombie portrayal that would influence later entries like The Walking Dead.
2 Evil Dead 2 (1987)
Directed By Sam Raimi
Evil Dead 2 is a unique entry that expands beyond traditional zombie lore, weaving in supernatural elements as a protagonist battles malevolent spirits in a secluded cabin. Acting as a direct sequel to Raimi’s original horror masterpiece, this film enhances its predecessor through innovation and creativity.
1 Dawn Of The Dead (1978)
Directed By George Romero
Often hailed as the pinnacle of zombie cinema, George Romero’s Dawn of the Dead captivates audiences with its dynamic approach, following a group of survivors battling against the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse. The film is marked by groundbreaking practical effects and action choreography, elevating it above its contemporaries and solidifying Romero’s legacy as the definitive zombie filmmaker. It played a crucial role in shaping the genre and served as a significant influence for series like The Walking Dead.
|
George Romero’s Living Dead Series |
Release Year |
|---|---|
|
Night of the Living Dead |
1968 |
|
Dawn of the Dead |
1978 |
|
Day of the Dead |
1985 |
|
Land of the Dead |
2005 |
|
Diary of the Dead |
2007 |
|
Survival of the Dead |
2009 |
|
Twilight of the Dead |
TBA |
The unforgettable practical effects and intricate action sequences set Romero’s work apart, propelling the genre into thrilling new territory. His impact remains undeniable, notably paving the way for modern series like The Walking Dead while elevating the zombie film genre as a whole.