Zombie Film Research

Zombie Film Research

Description

A zombie film is a subgenre of more general horror films, typically revolving around some kind of infection that embodies and de-humanised our race. 

Famous Directors


Iconic directors in this genre, and their associated films include;

Danny Boyle-28 days later Georgie 
Andrew Romero- Living dead series 
Tom Savini - Night of the living Dead [1990 Remake]

Types of Zombie Films

Although many zombie films follow the stereotypical conventions, others have incorporated elements from different genres in order to add something new. Some Zombie films have elements of sci-fi included in the plot eg. 'Resident Evil', whilst others add humour , thus creating the genre 'Zom-Com'. An example of this would be the relatively recent 'Zombieland', or Simon Pegg's 'Shaun Of The Dead'. which parodies the classic 'Dawn Of The Dead'.

Main Zombie Films

The original 'Living Dead' series remains one of the most iconic zombie themed features, comprised of 3 separate films. In recent years the Zombie genres seems to have resurged, resulting in films such as 'Zombieland', '28 days later', and 'Resident Evil'. These filsm still retain the majority of conventions seen in earlier features, whilst modernising it, both in terms of plot and effects.

Low Budget Zombie Films

Accessibility and reducing price of equipment has enabled the production of Lower Budget movies, created by amateur film makers. Examples of these include films such as; '[REC]', 'Dead Snow', and 'Colin'. Whilst a smaller budget has limited them in terms of effects, their unique takes on the genre, and clever use of available resources has earned them much credit.

Conventions of a Zombie Film


Location

Most Zombie Films, recent ones in particular, take place in a city. This common feature is largely due to the logical fact that infection spreads quickly in densely populated areas. Characters are often seen seeking refuge in dark, confined areas which is used to add to the sense of claustrophobia and heighten fear.

Character
There are normally definitely two main types of characters. Firstly there is always a male protagonist, stereotypically he is normally with the forces, skilled in some way, and is powerful enough to lead the other  main characters to safety, however in many film this character sacrifices his life to save the others which as time has gone on, he has grown rather attached too.

Aside to the male protagonist there is normally a female love interest. This character also stereotypically is very maternal to the group and as the male protagonist offers power, determination and protection. This female character is more emotionally engaged in the group and helps the weaker of the group (most of the time these are children) to overcome their fears and get through this though time.

Narrative
The narrative of a zombie film is normally very one sided. Showing only how the humans or "victims" feel. Showing their emotion, and their opinions on it all. However because zombies are in an almost vegetable state then we are unable to understand their views on this. This is intended so that the audience are never to have sympathy for the zombies.

Props
In zombie films the most commonly used prop used are weapons, as the plot revolves around survival, which inevitably means defending yourself against hordes of infected. Common associations are tools such as chainsaws and axes, as well as standard firearms, including the shotgun which has become somewhat iconic. Prosthetic limbs and fake blood are used copiously to add horror and realism to the unfolding events, making make-up an important below the line cost.






Sound
Sound is a very important thing when it comes to zombie movies. It has the ability to make the film incredibly immersive, by fulfilling functions such as creating tension and heightening adrenaline with a score, as well as adding realism when combined with other effects.  A large part of the sound used in zombie films are 'Foley Effects'. Zombie films contain a lot of gore which, for obvious reasons, has to be staged. Examples include; bones snapping and limbs being ripped off. As these events don't actually occur, the sound effects are added in during post production by Foley Artist's using everyday objects to recreated identical sounds.