Are you a fan of the heart-pounding action and suspense of World War Z? This 2013 apocalyptic horror film, based on the novel by Max Brooks, follows a former UN investigator as he races around the world trying to find a way to stop a zombie pandemic that is toppling armies and governments.
If you loved the thrills, chills and epic scope of World War Z, here are 20 more zombie movies that will have you on the edge of your seat. From comedies to dramas to straight-up horror, these films showcase the many creative ways filmmakers have explored the zombie genre. Get ready for some serious undead action!
1. Train to Busan (2016)
Train to Busan is a South Korean action horror film that takes place on a train to Busan as a zombie apocalypse suddenly breaks out in the country. It follows a group of terrified passengers fighting their way through the infected hordes to the perceived safety of Busan, the only city that has successfully fended off the viral outbreak.
With a 7.6 rating on IMDb and 99% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, Train to Busan was a massive hit that breathed new life into the zombie genre. The cramped quarters of the train setting provide claustrophobic thrills and amazing set pieces as the passengers battle the zombies. The film also has a lot of heart, with emotional character arcs that will have you deeply invested in their survival.
If you’re looking for a zombie film that perfectly balances action, scares, and depth of story and character, Train to Busan is a must-watch. It’s one of the best zombie movies to come out in recent years.
2. 28 Days Later (2002)
28 Days Later is a British post-apocalyptic horror film from director Danny Boyle. The film follows a handful of survivors in the UK as they cope with a viral outbreak that causes extreme rage and zombie-like behavior in those infected.
Shot in a gritty, realistic style on digital video, 28 Days Later was a major stylistic influence on the zombie genre. It helped popularize the concept of “fast zombies” – infected humans who move with frightening speed and agility, as opposed to the shambling gait of traditional zombies. With a 7.5 IMDb rating, it was critically acclaimed for its visual style, scary action sequences, and surprisingly thoughtful human drama.
28 Days Later spawned a 2007 sequel, 28 Weeks Later, which is also well worth checking out for more zombie action thrills if you enjoy the first film. But the original remains a groundbreaking classic of the genre.
3. Dawn of the Dead (2004)
Zack Snyder’s Dawn of the Dead is a remake of George A. Romero’s 1978 zombie classic of the same name. It follows a group of survivors who take refuge in an abandoned shopping mall during a zombie apocalypse.
While it deviates significantly from Romero’s original film, Snyder’s Dawn of the Dead works as its own action-packed, adrenaline-fueled experience. It helped establish Snyder’s style as a director and was a box office hit. Like 28 Days Later, it also helped make fast zombies a new standard in the genre.
The large cast of characters and creative mall setting provide ample opportunity for memorable zombie attack sequences and gory fun. If you like a bit of humor mixed in with your zombie violence, Dawn of the Dead delivers.
4. Zombieland (2009)
On the topic of humor and zombies, we have to talk about Zombieland. This horror comedy follows a ragtag group of survivors navigating a zombie apocalypse-ravaged America.
Jesse Eisenberg stars as “Columbus”, a nerdy college student just trying to survive, who teams up with Woody Harrelson’s “Tallahassee”, a snarky tough-guy on the hunt for Twinkies. Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin round out the cast as con-artist sisters. The road trip/buddy comedy format provides a fun twist on zombie movie tropes.
Zombieland is full of witty dialogue, fun pop culture references, and some impressive zombie action and gore. But it also has a surprising amount of heart. You’ll come to really root for this dysfunctional makeshift family.
A sequel, Zombieland: Double Tap, was released in 2019 and is also worth checking out for more zombie comedy antics, but the original remains the best.
5. Shaun of the Dead (2004)
On the topic of zom-coms, we can’t forget the iconic Shaun of the Dead. This British horror comedy from director Edgar Wright is a send-up of zombie movie clichés that still manages to be a great zombie film in its own right.
Simon Pegg stars as Shaun, a directionless appliance salesman who finds himself in the middle of a zombie uprising in London. He attempts to lead his friends and family to safety at his favorite pub, with many hilarious detours and mishaps along the way.
Shaun of the Dead is clever, quick-witted, and full of funny callbacks to classic zombie films, while providing plenty of zombie action and gore. It takes skill to perfectly ride the line between parody and genuine horror, but Shaun nails that balance. If you consider yourself a zombie movie buff, watching this is a must.
6. #Alive (2020)
#Alive is a South Korean zombie film with a unique premise. Instead of focusing on survivors on the run, it primarily follows one man trapped alone in his apartment during a zombie apocalypse.
The main character, played by Yoo Ah-in, must use his wits and limited resources to survive as the undead threat grows outside. It’s a great showcase for the “trapped in one location” type of thriller. The apartment setting provides a lot of opportunities for suspense and clever solutions to problems.
#Alive also provides some interesting commentary on modern technology, as the main character uses his phone and computer to gain information and connect with the outside world. There are some very effective scares and emotional moments throughout. It got strong reviews from critics and audiences for its fresh take on the genre.
7. Kingdom: Ashin of the North (2021)
Kingdom: Ashin of the North is a sidequel film to the South Korean Netflix series Kingdom, which involves zombies in medieval Korea. While it may help to be familiar with the series to fully appreciate it, this tragic film can still be enjoyed on its own as a historical zombie drama.
The story focuses on the mysterious character of Ashin, exploring her dark past and the events that led her to seek vengeance. It has a different tone and scale than many other zombie films, unfolding more like a dark character drama than an action film. The historical setting and political themes make it stand out.
Critics praised the performance of Jun Ji-hyun as Ashin, as well as the film’s beautiful cinematography and set design. If you want a fresh take on the genre that doesn’t skimp on tragedy and emotion, be sure to check out Kingdom: Ashin of the North.
8. I Am Legend (2007)
I Am Legend stars Will Smith as a virologist who is the last human survivor in New York City after a virus wipes out most of mankind and transforms the rest into aggressive, nocturnal mutants.
The film follows Smith’s character, Robert Neville, as he searches for food and supplies during the day and barricades himself in his home at night, all while working to develop a cure for the virus using his own immune blood.
I Am Legend is a tense, atmospheric thriller that makes great use of its eerie, abandoned city setting. Smith gives a compelling performance as a man struggling to maintain his sanity and hope in the face of overwhelming loneliness and danger.
The film does take some liberties with Richard Matheson’s original novel, especially when it comes to the nature of the infected humans, but it’s still a solid sci-fi horror film that’s well worth watching for fans of the genre.
9. The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
The Girl with All the Gifts is a British post-apocalyptic zombie film with a twist. The story focuses on a young girl named Melanie who has a genius-level IQ and loves going to class… but she and her classmates are actually infected by a fungal disease that has turned most of humanity into mindless, flesh-eating “hungries”.
As the base she lives on falls to a hungry attack, Melanie must go on the run with her beloved teacher and other survivors. But the more she learns about herself and the world, the more she begins to question her place in it.
The Girl with All the Gifts is a fresh, thought-provoking take on the genre that explores interesting ideas about humanity, evolution and survival. It features stunning lead performances from Sennia Nanua as Melanie and Gemma Arterton as her teacher. If you want a zombie film that will make you think, this is a great pick.
10. Overlord (2018)
Overlord is an action horror film that blends the zombie genre with another classic movie monster: Nazi super soldiers. Set on the eve of D-Day, the story follows a squad of American paratroopers who are sent to destroy a German radio tower, only to discover horrifying Nazi experiments that turn people into monstrous killing machines.
Overlord is a gory, intense thrill ride that feels like a video game come to life (in a good way). The action sequences are frenetic and visceral, the creature effects are top-notch, and there are some great genre twists and turns. But there’s also some solid emotional stakes and character development amid all the bloodshed.
If you’re looking for a zombie-adjacent historical action horror film, Overlord is one of the most entertaining examples in recent years. It’s a wild, gory good time.
11. The Crazies (2010)
The Crazies is a remake of George A. Romero’s 1973 film of the same name. It follows the residents of a small Iowa town who are suddenly beset by insanity and death after a mysterious toxin contaminates their water supply.
The film focuses on the town’s sheriff, played by Timothy Olyphant, as he tries to lead survivors to safety while avoiding the violent “crazies” as well as shady government forces trying to contain the situation.
The Crazies is a slick, suspenseful thriller that keeps the tension high. While it may not reinvent the wheel, it’s a well-crafted, entertaining film with solid performances and some memorable scare sequences. It’s a good pick if you want a small-town take on the zombie outbreak formula.
12. The Battery (2012)
The Battery is a low-budget American indie film that puts a unique spin on the zombie genre. The story focuses on two former baseball players, Ben and Mickey, as they wander the back roads of New England trying to survive in a world overrun by the undead.
What sets The Battery apart is its focus on the relationship between the two lead characters and how they cope with the monotony and emotional toll of day-to-day survival. It’s a slow-burn character study that’s more interested in quiet moments of human drama than big zombie action sequences (although there are a few of those too).
The Battery is a great example of how much can be done with a small budget and a tight focus. The two lead actors give fantastic performances, and the film has a lyrical, melancholy tone that will stick with you. If you want a more contemplative take on the genre, give it a shot.
13. Cargo (2017)
Cargo is an Australian post-apocalyptic drama set in the aftermath of a zombie pandemic. The story follows a father, played by Martin Freeman, who is stranded in rural Australia and infected with a zombie virus that will turn him in 48 hours. He sets out on a desperate journey to find someone to protect his infant daughter before he turns.
Based on a 2013 short film of the same name, Cargo takes the zombie genre in a more dramatic, emotional direction. It’s a slow-burn road movie that’s less interested in zombie action than it is in exploring themes of fatherhood, sacrifice, and the lengths we go to protect the ones we love.
Martin Freeman gives a powerful lead performance, and the Australian Outback setting provides a unique, hauntingly beautiful backdrop for the story. Cargo is a great pick if you want a zombie drama that will hit you right in the feels.
14. One Cut of the Dead (2017)
One Cut of the Dead is a Japanese zombie comedy that became a word-of-mouth hit and critical darling. The less you know going in, the better, but in broad strokes: the story follows a film crew making a low-budget zombie movie who find themselves under attack by real zombies.
To say much more would risk spoiling the film’s surprises. Suffice to say, One Cut of the Dead is a wild, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt love letter to the joys and challenges of indie filmmaking. It’s a clever meta take on zombie films that still delivers on the gory goods.
The film is best known for its inventive 37-minute opening shot, which is a stunning technical achievement. But there’s so much more to love as the story unfolds from there. If you want a zombie comedy that’s equal parts clever and charming, One Cut of the Dead can’t be beat.
15. The Night Eats the World (2018)
The Night Eats the World is a French post-apocalyptic zombie film that puts a unique existential spin on the genre. The story follows a man named Sam who wakes up after a party to find that Paris has been overrun by the undead overnight. Barricaded alone in an apartment building, Sam must learn to survive and find meaning in a world where he may be the last living human.
The film is a moody, atmospheric character study that’s more interested in psychological horror than zombie action. Director Dominique Rocher does a great job creating a sense of isolation and despair, and lead actor Anders Danielsen Lie gives a compelling performance as a man on the edge.
The Night Eats the World is a artful, thought-provoking film that uses the zombie apocalypse as a metaphor for loneliness and existential dread. It’s a slow burn, but it’s a rewarding watch for fans of more contemplative horror.
16. Little Monsters (2019)
Little Monsters is an Australian horror comedy about a washed-up musician, a kids’ show personality, and a class of kindergarteners who get caught in a zombie outbreak during a field trip to a farm. Lupita Nyong’o stars as the plucky teacher who has to lead the kids to safety with the help of the two man-children.
Little Monsters is a charming, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt zom-com that makes the most of its silly premise. Nyong’o is fantastic as the determined, unflappable teacher, and her chemistry with Alexander England and Josh Gad is great. The child actors are also adorable and hilarious.
While Little Monsters doesn’t skimp on the zombie gore, it’s the lighthearted moments and relationships that make it memorable. It’s a fresh, quirky take on the genre that’s perfect if you want some laughs with your scares.
17. The Rezort (2015)
The Rezort is a British zombie film with a clever premise: what if, after a zombie apocalypse, the undead were rounded up and put on a secluded island… to serve as attractions in a zombie safari park? The story follows a group of guests at The Rezort who find themselves in a fight for survival when the park’s security systems fail and the zombies get loose.
It’s a fun setup that allows for some great action sequences as the guests and staff try to survive the zombie-infested island. But The Rezort also has some biting (no pun intended) social commentary, using its premise to explore ideas about exploitation, class, and the dark side of tourism.
The Rezort is a solid zombie thriller that makes the most of its unique setting and themes. It’s not the most original film on this list, but it’s an entertaining watch with some memorable moments.
18. The Horde (2009)
The Horde is a French action horror film that pits a group of cops against a horde of zombies… and a gang of criminals. The story follows a group of police officers who launch an assault on a mostly abandoned high-rise to take down a gang of drug dealers. But mid-raid, a zombie apocalypse breaks out, forcing the cops and criminals to team up to survive.
The Horde is a gritty, gory, action-packed zombie film that delivers on the thrills and bloodshed. The action sequences are intense and well-choreographed, making great use of the claustrophobic high-rise setting. And the dynamic between the cops and criminals adds an extra layer of tension to the story.
While it may not break new ground, The Horde is a solid, entertaining zombie action flick with a cool premise and some great set pieces. If you’re in the mood for a gritty, no-holds-barred undead battle, it’s definitely worth checking out.
19. The Ravenous (2017)
The Ravenous (originally titled Les Affamés in French) is a Canadian horror drama set in the aftermath of a zombie apocalypse. The story follows various survivors in rural Quebec as they search for food, shelter, and other survivors while avoiding the infected.
What sets The Ravenous apart is its arthouse sensibility. It’s a slow-burn film that’s more interested in mood, atmosphere, and character than zombie action (although there are some tense and scary sequences throughout). Director Robin Aubert creates a sense of quiet desperation and dread as the survivors navigate the desolate, dangerous landscape.
The Ravenous is a haunting, poetic zombie film that will linger with you long after the credits roll. It’s not for everyone – the pace is deliberate and the story is minimal. But if you want a zombie movie that feels more like an arthouse drama than an action flick, The Ravenous is a great pick.
20. Blood Quantum (2019)
Blood Quantum is a Canadian horror film that puts a fresh spin on the zombie genre. The story is set on a First Nations reserve where the indigenous residents discover they are immune to the zombie virus that is infecting the rest of the world. As survivors flock to the reserve for safety, tensions rise and hard decisions must be made.
Written and directed by Mi’kmaq filmmaker Jeff Barnaby, Blood Quantum uses the zombie genre to explore themes of colonialism, racism, and indigenous identity. It’s a smart, politically charged film that doesn’t shy away from gore or complex ideas.
The indigenous cast is fantastic across the board, and Barnaby’s direction is stylish and assured. Blood Quantum is a must-watch for anyone who wants to see a new perspective on the zombie genre while still getting their fill of undead action.
Conclusion
There you have it – 20 of the best zombie movies to watch if you loved World War Z. From action-packed thrillers to funny zom-coms to contemplative arthouse dramas, these films showcase the incredible diversity and creativity of the zombie genre in recent years.
Whether you’re in the mood for pulse-pounding scares, dark laughs, or thought-provoking stories, you’re sure to find something to love on this list. So grab some popcorn (and maybe a weapon, just in case), turn off the lights, and get ready for some unforgettable undead action. Happy watching!
