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Zombies have captivated audiences in film and television since the inception of the mediums. From the iconic 1932 film White Zombie to George A. Romero’s transformative Night of the Living Dead in 1968, the genre has consistently provided a lens through which we can confront our fears surrounding death and societal collapse, while also celebrating human resilience in dire circumstances.
In recent times, series like The Walking Dead and The Last of Us have demonstrated the genre’s potential on the small screen, achieving widespread acclaim and viewership. However, not every zombie-themed show receives the same level of recognition. This article will highlight ten lesser-known zombie series that, despite their lack of mainstream success, are remarkable in their own right and deserve a wider audience.
10
Generation Z
Release Date: 2024 – 2023
Network: Channel 4 (Online)
Generation Z is a comedic take on the zombie genre, set in the fictional British town of Dambury. After a military chemical accident, the elderly residents become insatiable zombies, targeting the town’s youth. This series features a mix of seasoned British actors such as Sue Johnston and Johnny Vegas, alongside emerging talents like Buket Kömür and Lewis Gribben, delivering a blend of humor and horror.
Director Ben Wheatley Returns to His Roots
Renowned for indie hits like Sightseers and A Field in England, director Ben Wheatley has a knack for intertwining dark themes with humor. After directing the blockbuster Meg 2, which received mixed reviews, he returns to his comfort zone with Generation Z, skillfully merging comedy with darker undertones in a uniquely British setting.
9
Z Nation
Release Date: 2014 – 2018
Network: SyFy
Set in a devastated world infested with zombies, Z Nation follows an eclectic group of survivors tasked with transporting the only known survivor of a zombie bite to a research lab. With its unique blend of humor and action, the show offers a lighter take on the zombie apocalypse, diverging from the more serious tones found in The Last of Us and The Walking Dead.
‘Z Nation’ Has 5 Seasons Under Its Belt
Though Z Nation ran for five successful seasons, it remains relatively obscure compared to its peers. Its unconventional style and lack of significant financial backing led to a niche appeal, yet it has cultivated a loyal fanbase that continues to advocate for its return since its cancellation in 2019.
8
Daybreak
Release Date: October 24, 2019
Network: Netflix
This post-apocalyptic comedy-drama revolves around a group of teenagers navigating the dangers of Glendale, California, after adults have transformed into zombie-like creatures dubbed “Ghoulies.” Alongside avoiding these threats, the teens must contend with “Mad Max”-esque tribes that dominate the landscape.
‘Daybreak’ Takes the Concept of High School Cliques to the Next Level
Transforming the typical high school hierarchy into savage, post-apocalyptic tribes, Daybreak delivers a fresh and fiery portrayal of adolescent dynamics. While it received critical acclaim, the series failed to garner sufficient viewership to secure a second season.
7
In the Flesh
Release Date: 2013 – 2014
Network: BBC
In the Flesh presents a deeply emotional narrative in a post-zombie apocalypse world, focusing on Kieren Walker, who is attempting to reintegrate into society after being cured of zombification. The series thoughtfully explores themes of humanity and identity.
‘In the Flesh’ Feels Deeply Human
Praised for its rich emotional storytelling and complex characters, the show was unfortunately cut short due to BBC budget constraints after its second season, leaving it without the audience recognition it deserved.
6
iZombie
Release Date: 2015 – 2018
Network: The CW
Based on a DC comic, iZombie blends crime procedural and supernatural elements. The story follows a medical examiner in Seattle who solves murders by consuming the brains of victims, tapping into their memories and experiences.
Despite Consistently High Rotten Tomatoes Scores, ‘iZombie’ Remains an Underappreciated Gem
While the series found its timing and tone in later seasons, achieving outstanding ratings, it struggled to carve out a significant fan base, partly due to marketing that initially misrepresented its comedic depth and emotional range, as well as the network’s reputation for teen-targeted programming.
5
Highschool of the Dead
Release Date: 2010
Network: Tokyo MX
Focusing on high school students in the midst of a zombie crisis, Highschool of the Dead features striking animation and a chaotic narrative, lacking in restraint as the characters battle hordes of undead while dealing with teenage issues.
‘Highschool of the Dead’ Courted Much Controversy
Despite being condemned for its graphic violence and overtly sexual themes, which led to its ban in several countries, the series is noted for its visual style and thrilling choreography, positioning it as a bold endeavor that transcends conventional zombie narratives.
4
The Bite
Release Date: 2021
Network: CBS All Access
The Bite satirizes the COVID-19 pandemic by depicting a world where a mutated virus converts victims into aggressive, zombie-like entities. It cleverly fuses horror with comedy, reflecting on societal absurdities during crises.
‘The Bite’ Was Overshadowed by the Influx of Post-COVID Content
The COVID-19 pandemic spurred a wave of pandemic-focused stories, causing The Bite to be overshadowed. Despite its clever premise and comedic execution, the show struggled to gain the recognition it merited amid the deluge of similar content.
3
Glitch
Release Date: 2015 – 2019
Directors: Emma Freeman, Tony Krawitz
Writers: Louise Fox, Kris Mrksa, Giula Sandler, Pete McTighe, Adam Hill
Glitch, set in Australia, portrays a community grappling with the inexplicable return of several deceased individuals, who possess no memories from their past lives. The series garnered acclaim for its engaging plot in the first two seasons, though it faced challenges in its third season.
‘Glitch’s’ First Two Seasons Are Masterpieces
The initial seasons intricately blend supernatural elements with character-driven narratives, exploring profound themes around love and identity. Regrettably, the final season received criticism for its disjointed storytelling and unresolved plots, leading to disappointment among fans.
2
Kingdom
Release Date: October 22, 2019
Runtime: 11 Minutes
Director: Bettina Oberli
Writers: Thomas Ritter
Kingdom invites viewers into a medieval setting, where Crown Prince Lee Chang confronts a zombie epidemic intertwined with political machinations in Joseon-era Korea. The show artfully combines historical drama with horror elements, creating a uniquely compelling viewing experience.
There Are Pros and Cons to Kingdom’s Unconventional Approach to the Genre
The innovative mix of genres and setting provides Kingdom with a distinct edge, although it may also limit its audience appeal, as viewers accustomed to more traditional zombie tales may find it challenging to engage with its complexity.
1
Black Summer
Set shortly after a devastating zombie apocalypse, Black Summer follows Rose as she embarks on a perilous quest to find her daughter, aligning with a group of survivors in North America.
‘Black Summer’ Takes Place in the Same Universe as ‘Z Nation’
Actor DJ Qualls revealed that Black Summer exists in the same universe as Z Nation, offering a prequel narrative. However, while Z Nation incorporates humor, Black Summer conveys a darker tone, presenting a harrowing and poignant survival story that remains underappreciated.
Source
movieweb.com