Scrolling through your Netflix account and wondering what to watch? There's nothing like a great zombie film to perk you up. These creatures have been the main characters in countless movies so much that they've been ingrained in popular culture. For many of us, the zombie genre isn't new; however, every film brings something new to the table.
Zombie movies are not everyone's cup of tea. Sometimes, the visuals are too graphic for viewers. Wondering how to choose a great zombie film? In this article, we've created a viewer's guide to help you out. We've also made a list of our top 10 recommended zombie movies to get you started.
Quick List - Top Zombie Movies on Netflix
Yusuke Ishida
A High-Energy Zombie Movie Based on a Popular Manga
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Table of Contents
Zombies are fictional resurrected or reanimated corpses that need living flesh to feast on. The zombie genre's popular origins can be attributed to the famous Night of the Living Dead franchise, which was a blockbuster hit and eventually became part of popular culture.
Before it was established as its own category, it used to be a part of the larger horror genre. In some ways, it still is. The current zombie genre has evolved in many ways and even has its own sub-genres, but one thing is constantーthe dead never stay truly dead.
Zombie movies are fun to watch. They're intriguing, and it's amazing how the genre can still evolve even while using the same zombie concept. But not all zombie movies are created equal. Read our guide below to help you choose the best ones to watch on Netflix.
Zombies typically have two origin stories. They may come about as a result of a virus mutation, or they may be manifestations of evil spirits. Either way, they are scary creatures! Read below to find out more about these common types of zombie movies.
The zombie virus is one of the common zombie movie tropes. Often, a zombie is made through genetic engineering and scientific experiments. Stories about a zombie's origin often involve an accident in the laboratory or medicines gone wrong. Once a zombie is created, it bites and infects humans, turning them into zombies as well.
Before the rise of the zombie virus trope, zombies were associated with the supernatural. They would be the product of magic, witchcraft, or evil spirits. In these kinds of movies, human bodies are used as a tool. Evil entities will reanimate corpses to do their bidding, often to enact revenge on the other characters in the film or simply to wreak havoc.
Zombie movies are a genre in itself, but this does not mean that they can’t blend with other genres. In modern zombie films, screenwriters and producers tend to mix it up with other genres to humanize a plot that is full of the undead. They add certain elements to help make their film unique in an array of zombie movies.
Romance seems like an unlikely theme amid a zombie outbreak, but sometimes you find love in the most unexpected places. In this sub-genre, the focus is on the budding relationships between the two main characters, often developed while on the run. Love makes the world go round, after all, and not even a zombie apocalypse can stop it.
In a dystopian world, injecting some humor is always a good idea. Comedy films emphasize humor and the need to make the audience laugh or smile. A little joke here and there makes a dreary situation lighter. Comedic relief is also often utilized to break the plot and to give the audience some rest from the intense and gory zombie scenes.
Some zombie films are also entirely comedic. They feature zombies but with a fun twist or spoof. Zombie comedy films are usually watched by all ages and could be enjoyed by everyone in the family. After the horror and thriller genres, this is probably the most popular.
No, not the Michael Jackson song. Although his music video did include the undead, the zombie thriller genre is much more suspenseful than MJ’s pop hit. A thriller movie’s purpose is to excite the viewers through suspense and surprises. These are films with high action content to get our adrenaline pumping.
A zombie movie usually overlaps with the science fiction genre whenever its origins are explained and explored. If the reason for the existence of zombies in a film is scientific, like a virus, then this crosses over into the science fiction genre. For example, if a doctor or a scientist creates a formula or substance that can turn people into zombies, the movie is considered a sci-fi film.
Zombies were originally creatures that belonged to the horror genre. And as we mentioned before, it still does in some ways because zombies are scary by nature. Whenever a movie aims to terrify people with gruesome zombies, then we can classify that movie as a zombie-horror genre.
Every film needs a stellar team to create a great production. For zombie films, whoever is chosen to direct the film carries a lot of weight. Directors usually have specialties and styles, and these are reflected in the film. A zombie film can feel a lot faster if the director is used to creating action films and prefers quick cuts rather than long takes.
This is the same for the actors. Whoever headlines the movies can help shape the fictional world and inject humanity into a film about the undead. A great example is when veteran actor Brad Pitt was the top billing character in World War Z. For a zombie movie, he did a great job in reflecting the desperation of humans to survive an outbreak.
Most of the time, we get 2 kinds of situations in a zombie film. It’s either the lead who wants to survive or the one who wants to find a cure. Survival films are often action-packed and offer basic information about the zombie. Often, you’d learn that they are sensitive to different factors, which helps the main characters navigate their situation.
For films that are about finding a cure or a solution, the main characters are more driven towards a different goal. We also learn more about the zombies in these kinds of films, such as their origins, biology, and how they turn and spread.
Before choosing a film, reading a review can be helpful. Most film blogs or sites will give descriptions and short summaries of the film. They also share their thoughts on what they think about the movie. Reading these things can help you make up your mind. Some blogs would even suggest some similar films to help widen your options.
Viewing the trailers can help you narrow down your choices. It could also provide insight into the plot of the movie. Moreover, trailers can set the tone for the whole movie. They also allow you to check out the cinematography and the visual effects to entice you into watching the full movie.
Like with any movie, checking content warnings is important. It helps you avoid things or themes you don't want to see. It also tells you what to expect from the film. Netflix makes sure that a movie's maturity ratings and content warnings are easily seen, so be sure to check that out before watching the zombie film you want.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
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Duration | Sub-Genre | Content Warning | Maturity Rating | Country of Origin | |||||
1 | Marc Forster World War Z|2013 | ![]() | One Man's Epic Quest to Save Humanity | 1 Hour and 57 Minutes | Action, Adventure, Thriller | Violence | 16+ | United States | |
2 | Yusuke Ishida Zom 100: Bucketlist of the Dead|2023 | ![]() | A High-Energy Zombie Movie Based on a Popular Manga | 2 Hours and 9 Minutes | Action, Comedy, Horror | Violence | 16+ | Japan | |
3 | Jonathan Levine Warm Bodies|2013 | ![]() | A Romantic Take on the Zombie Genre | 1 Hour and 37 Minutes | Romantic Comedy | Violence | 13+ | United States | |
4 | Cho Il-hyung #Alive|2020 | ![]() | The Terror of Isolation in a Zombie-Infested City | 1 Hour and 38 Minutes | Horror, Thriller | Violence, Language | 16+ | Korea | |
5 | Zack Snyder Army of the Dead|2021 | ![]() | An Action-Packed Zombie Heist Film | 2 Hours and 28 MInutes | Crime, Action, Adventure | Violence, Language | 16+ | United States | |
6 | Kim Seong-Hun Kingdom: Ashin of the North|2021 | ![]() | Follows the Lone Survivor of a Tribe in Dynastic Korea | 1 Hour and 33 Minutes | Political Horror | Violence | 16+ | Korea | |
7 | Antonia Bird Ravenous|2017 | ![]() | Survivors Band Together Against a Deadly Outbreak | 1 Hour and 43 Minutes | Horror, Psychological Thriller | Violence, Language | 16+ | Canada | |
8 | Javier Ruiz Caldera, Alberto de Toro Valley of the Dead|2022 | ![]() | Rivals Unite in a Fight Against a Zombie Apocalypse | 1 Hour and 41 Minutes | Historical Fiction, Action | Violence, Language | 16+ | Spain | |
9 | John Suits Pandemic|2016 | ![]() | Experience a Zombie-Infested Reality | 1 Hour and 31 Minutes | Sci-Fi | Violence, Language | 16+ | United States | |
10 | Jade Castro Remington and the Curse of the Zombadings|2011 | ![]() | A Zombie Movie With a Comedic Twist | 1 Hour and 35 Minutes | Comedy, LGBTQ+ | Violence, Language | 16+ | Philippines |
Former UN agent Gerry Lane (Brad Pitt) finds himself stuck in traffic as the zombie outbreak erupts. In exchange for securing his family's safety, the UN offers him refuge if he joins an expedition to find the cure. Driven by concern for his loved ones, he embarks on a mission to uncover the nature of the zombie virus and how to stop it.
This fast-paced film is based on a book of the same name and played a pivotal role in reviving the zombie genre. With Brad Pitt as the lead, the movie delivers stunning emotional performances in an action-packed setting. If you also love impressive visual effects and creative storylines, definitely add World War Z to your to-watch list!
Duration | 1 Hour and 57 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Action, Adventure, Thriller |
Content Warning | Violence |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | United States |
Duration | 2 Hours and 9 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Action, Comedy, Horror |
Content Warning | Violence |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | Japan |
If you're looking for a zombie movie with a moving and touching story, Warm Bodies is something that will surely tug at your heartstrings. The story centers around R (Nicholas Hoult), a rather unusual zombie that can think and feel much like a human person. But despite possessing these abilities, is it truly possible for the undead to fall in love?
Warm Bodies offers a refreshing take on the zombie genre by blending romance, comedy, and horror into one film. Beyond that, it also explores questions such as what it means to be human and what it means to fall in love. This film presents an entirely different perspective on the post-apocalypse, giving you a smart, funny, and upbeat choice that stands out from the usual grim and serious zombie movies.
Duration | 1 Hour and 37 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Romantic Comedy |
Content Warning | Violence |
Maturity Rating | 13+ |
Country of Origin | United States |
As a virus outbreak decimates Seoul and turns its residents into zombies, Oh Joon-woo (Yoo Ah-in) is stranded alone in his apartment. Running low on supplies and morale, Joon-woo's only chance may come from a woman (Park Shin-hye) living in the building across from his.
#Alive is a modern take on the zombie apocalypse as it integrates the use of technology like drones, live streaming, and other innovations in its plot. You can count on Yoo Ah-in and Park Shin-hye's excellent performances in this South Korean movie. Go see this film for a thrilling and heart-pounding story of survival!
Duration | 1 Hour and 38 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Horror, Thriller |
Content Warning | Violence, Language |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | Korea |
Combining the excitement of a heist and a zombie apocalypse, Army of the Dead follows a group of mercenaries led by Scott Ward (Dave Bautista) as they undertake a daring mission to retrieve a massive sum of money in a zombie-infested zone. As they navigate the treacherous undead hordes, the team faces not only the flesh-eating creatures, but also internal conflicts and moral dilemmas.
Blockbuster director Zack Snyder's signature visual style shines through, creating a gritty and visually stunning world. The film balances intense action sequences with moments of dark humor and emotional depth, thanks to the talented ensemble cast. This movie is a must-watch for those seeking a thrilling and visually-striking cinematic experience!
Duration | 2 Hours and 28 MInutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Crime, Action, Adventure |
Content Warning | Violence, Language |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | United States |
Set in a fictional kingdom in Korea during the Joseon dynasty, this movie follows a young girl named Ashin (Si-ah Kim), whose indigenous tribe would later become victims of a mysterious disease that turns people into zombies. As one of the few survivors, Ashin investigates the origins of the deadly outbreak. Along the way, she unearths dark secrets about the disease as well as its true origins.
Kingdom: Ashin of the North is a special spin-off of the hit Korean TV series Kingdom. Since the movie features events that took place before the series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone film. If you're into historical and political dramas, or plots that revolve around betrayal and vengeance, this movie is the one for you!
Duration | 1 Hour and 33 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Political Horror |
Content Warning | Violence |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | Korea |
Two friends, Bonin (Marc-André Grondin) and Vezina (Didier Lucien), patrol the streets of their zombie-infested neighborhood in rural Quebec. During their trips, they encounter more survivors, whom they would eventually take in as part of their group. As the zombies swarm in, the group finds themselves making decisions with deadly consequences, putting their friendship to the ultimate test.
Ravenous is a story about trust, unity, and survival against the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse in a small town in Quebec. It's also a quiet thriller that adds an eerie tone throughout the entire film. With minimal sound and music, the movie builds palpable tension and suspense that will leave the audience on the edge of their seats.
Duration | 1 Hour and 43 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Horror, Psychological Thriller |
Content Warning | Violence, Language |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | Canada |
Duration | 1 Hour and 41 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Historical Fiction, Action |
Content Warning | Violence, Language |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | Spain |
Shot from a first-person perspective, Pandemic is a film that feels very much like a video game. The film follows a team comprised of a doctor, a tactics officer, a navigator, and a driver. They are on a perilous quest to gather survivors from a deadly virus in decimated Los Angeles. With such a daunting task, can they defeat the undead and save the victims in time?
With its unique cinematographic style, Pandemic is not like your typical zombie film. It tells its story through the viewpoint of the main character, Dr. Lauren Chase (Rachel Nichols), making you feel that you are part of the action. If you enjoy immersive zombie movies or are a fan of first-person video games, this movie is a must-see!
Duration | 1 Hour and 31 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Sci-Fi |
Content Warning | Violence, Language |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | United States |
Duration | 1 Hour and 35 Minutes |
---|---|
Sub-Genre | Comedy, LGBTQ+ |
Content Warning | Violence, Language |
Maturity Rating | 16+ |
Country of Origin | Philippines |
It wouldn't be fun to only watch zombie movies on a relaxing family night. Do you want to see more films or shows of different genres? We got you! Check out the links below to help you choose the next film for your movie night.
Author: Angelica Sy
Our viewer's guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the viewer's guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the series recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from Netflix.
No. 1: Marc Forster|World War Z|2013
No. 2: Yusuke Ishida|Zom 100: Bucketlist of the Dead|2023
No. 3: Jonathan Levine|Warm Bodies|2013
No. 4: Cho Il-hyung|#Alive|2020
No. 5: Zack Snyder|Army of the Dead|2021
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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