20 Best Animated Zombie Movies That Left Us Jaw-Dropped

From eerie storylines to breathtaking graphics, animated zombie movies have evolved from niche curiosities into full-fledged cultural phenomena. And while everyone might have their personal favorite live-action zombie flick, there’s something undeniably special about seeing these creatures come to life through the medium of animation. 

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the realm of animated undead, join us as we dive deep into the 20 animated zombie masterpieces that left us, and many others, utterly jaw-dropped. Buckle up; it will be an exhilarating ride through terror, tales, and compelling animation.

20 Best Animated Zombie Movies

Each of these films, with their distinctive animation styles and innovative storylines, has pushed the boundaries of what audiences expect from the zombie genre.

Resident Evil: Death Island (2023)

Resident Evil: Death Island (2023) is a Japanese adult computer-animated Animated Zombie Movie and the fifth installment in the animated Resident Evil series. Set within the Resident Evil video game universe, it follows 2017’s “Resident Evil: Vendetta” and 2021’s miniseries “Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness.” Directed by Eiichirō Hasumi and penned by Makoto Fukami, the movie premiered on July 7, 2023. 

It delves into the 1998 Raccoon City incident and events 17 years later in 2015’s San Francisco. Central characters like Leon S. Kennedy, Jill Valentine, and Chris Redfield confront a zombie outbreak instigated by a private military firm. Key themes explored are bioterrorism, conspiracy, and survival horror.

Night of the Animated Dead (2021)

“Night of the Animated Dead” is an animated horror film released in 2021, which brings a new perspective to the classic zombie narrative. The story unfolds as two siblings visit their father’s grave in the countryside and are attacked by a zombie. Barbara, one of the siblings, escapes to a farmhouse, where she and a man barricade themselves inside as more zombies approach. 

The film features voices from notable actors such as Josh Duhamel, Dulé Hill, Katharine Isabelle, James Roday Rodriguez, and Katee Sackhoff, among others. The movie is directed by Jason Axinn and is based on the writings of George A. Romero and John A. Russo. It has a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes and is rated R.

Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island (1998)

“Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island” (1998) is a direct-to-video animated film that diverges from the usual Scooby-Doo formula by featuring genuine supernatural elements. Instead of the expected “masked villain” plot, the gang encounters real zombies on Moonscar Island in the Louisiana Bayou. Highlighted by a mature tone, the film explores themes of immortality, betrayal, and curses. 

Not only does it offer deeper character development, but it also boasts commendable animation and memorable songs like “It’s Terror Time Again.” Reception was overwhelmingly positive, with many lauding its fresh take on the series. The movie’s success ushered in a series of direct-to-video Scooby-Doo films, often hailed as one of the best in the franchise.

Scooby-Doo! Return to Zombie Island (2019)

Scooby-Doo! Return to Zombie Island is an animated mystery film from Warner Bros. Animation and was distributed by Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. Serving as a direct sequel to the 1998 film “Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island,” it is the thirty-third film in the Scooby-Doo direct-to-video series. The movie premiered at the San Diego Comic-Con on July 21, 2019, with subsequent digital and DVD releases in September and October 2019.

The story sees the Scooby-Doo gang being coaxed out of retirement to solve a mystery on Moonscar Island, a place they’re familiar with. Once again, they face an onslaught of zombies and eerie cat creatures on this haunting isle.

Corpse Bride (2005)

Corpse Bride, often called “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride,” is a 2005 stop-motion animated musical fantasy produced by Tim Burton Productions and Laika Entertainment. Directed by Mike Johnson and Tim Burton, the film unfolds in a fictional Victorian-era English village. The narrative centers on Victor, voiced by Johnny Depp, who inadvertently proposes to a dead bride, Emily, voiced by Helena Bonham Carter, during a practice of his wedding vows. 

Whisked away to the Land of the Dead by Emily, Victor’s living fiancée, Victoria, anticipates his return to the Land of the Living. The movie, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, artistically delves into themes of love, commitment, and the interplay between life and death.

Resident Evil: Degeneration (2008)

Resident Evil: Degeneration is a 2008 CGI-animated biopunk action horror film directed by Makoto Kamiya. It bridges the narrative gap between Capcom’s “Resident Evil 4” and “Resident Evil 5” video games. Set at the T-virus outbreak in Harvardville Airport, the film follows U.S. agents Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield as they battle zombies and uncover a bioterrorism conspiracy. 

Boasting high-quality CGI, the movie includes voice actors from the video games, ensuring continuity for fans. While featuring the franchise’s signature action, the film also embraces horror elements. Despite mixed reviews, it was lauded by fans for its faithfulness to the games. Its primary audience is “Resident Evil” enthusiasts and mature viewers due to violent content.

Seoul Station (2016)

Seoul Station is a 2016 South Korean animated horror film directed by Yeon Sang-ho, acting as a prequel to the acclaimed live-action film “Train to Busan.” The movie spotlights a zombie outbreak originating from Seoul’s central train station. The gritty animation paints a dark, desperate cityscape, setting it apart from typical animated features. Central to the narrative is Hye-sun, a young woman navigating the chaos. 

The film offers potent social commentary, tackling class inequality and the darker aspects of human nature during crises. While zombies are the overt menace, the film suggests humans can be equally dangerous. Celebrated for its storytelling and thematic depth, it appeals to mature audiences and is a powerful entry in the zombie genre.

ParaNorman (2012)

ParaNorman is a 2012 stop-motion animated comedy-horror film by Laika, directed by Sam Fell and Chris Butler. This family-friendly movie offers a unique spin on the zombie genre, centered around Norman Babcock, an 11-year-old who can converse with ghosts. In Blithe Hollow, a town cursed to have the dead rise annually, ostracized Norman becomes the key to averting a zombie crisis. Laika’s expertise shines through the film’s detailed animation, earning it an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature. 

Beyond its horror-comedy blend, “ParaNorman” underscores themes of acceptance and understanding differences. While aimed at younger viewers, its narrative complexity captivates adults, too. Overall, it’s a distinctive, heartwarming addition to animated undead films, celebrated for its narrative and animation prowess.

Resident Evil: Damnation (2012)

Resident Evil: Damnation is a 2012 Japanese CGI-animated biopunk action horror film directed by Makoto Kamiya, serving as a sequel to “Resident Evil: Degeneration.” Set in Capcom’s “Resident Evil” universe, the story follows Leon S. Kennedy as he investigates Bio-Organic Weapons (B.O.W.s) in a war-torn Eastern European nation, confronting iconic creatures like Tyrants and Lickers. With meticulously crafted animation, the film paints an atmosphere faithful to the video game series. 

Delving into themes like bioterrorism, corporate greed, and geopolitical complexities, it challenges viewers on moral stances in warfare. Catering to mature audiences, the film is especially enticing for franchise enthusiasts. Overall, it’s a commendable installment in the animated zombie domain, merging thrilling action with game-rooted narratives.

The Empire of Corpses (2015)

The Empire of Corpses (2015) is a Japanese animated film directed by Ryoutarou Makihara and produced by Wit Studio. Set in an alternate 19th century, the discovery of “Necroware” technology allows the dead to be reanimated as laborer automata called “Frankensteins.” Protagonist John H. Watson, inspired by the Sherlock Holmes universe, seeks the notes of Victor Frankenstein to understand soul reanimation. 

This leads to a global quest filled with steampunk aesthetics, historical figure reinterpretations, and deep philosophical questions on life and the soul. While lauded for its unique world-building and high-quality animation, some critics found its story complex. The film is a fusion of history, philosophy, and speculative fiction in an animated narrative.

Dead Fury (2008)

Dead Fury is a 2008 animated horror-comedy film by Frank Sudol, a testament to independent filmmaking in its entirety—from animation to voice acting—handled by Sudol himself. Utilizing Flash animation, the film tells the tale of hunters confronting supernatural entities, including zombies, in a cursed forest. Though the animation is simplistic, it adds a unique DIY touch, aligning with the film’s blend of exaggerated comedy and violence. 

Mainly a satire of the horror genre, “Dead Fury” plays with established tropes, offering humor within a horror setting. Catering to a niche, mature audience, it’s a treat for indie horror enthusiasts who appreciate dark humor. In essence, “Dead Fury” is a distinct indie foray into horror-comedy, celebrating the unconventional in style and substance.

The Amazing Adventures of the Living Corpse (2012)

“The Amazing Adventures of the Living Corpse” is a 2012 animated horror-action film based on the comic “The Living Corpse Exhumed” by Ken Haeser and Buz Hasson. Unlike typical zombie narratives, this film centers on The Living Corpse, a zombie aware of his undead condition and fighting to protect his human family. 

The story delves deep into his emotional struggle, especially concerning his son, and encounters with various supernatural entities. The animation is dark and moody, capturing the essence of the comic, although it received mixed reviews for its quality. Overall, the movie offers a unique perspective on the zombie genre, emphasizing introspection, identity, and familial bonds.

Monster Family (2017)

Monster Family is a 2017 animated comedy directed by Holger Tappe, showcasing the Wishbone family’s transformation into monsters. After a curse from the evil witch Baba Yaga, Emma turns into a vampire, Frank becomes Frankenstein’s monster, Fay is a mummy, and Max is a werewolf. The vibrant 3D animation offers a visually engaging experience tailored for younger viewers. Beyond its fantastical premise, the film delves into themes of family, identity, and self-acceptance, using supernatural transformations as metaphors for personal struggles. 

Though it received mixed reviews, “Monster Family” was commended for its lessons on family bonds. Targeted at children and families, this light-hearted adventure offers a comedic spin on the monster genre, blending fun with heartfelt family values.

The Haunted World of El Superbeasto (2009)

The Haunted World of El Superbeasto is a 2009 adult animated horror-comedy directed by Rob Zombie. It brings to life a washed-up luchador, El Superbeasto, and his sidekick, Suzi X, as they face off against Dr. Satan in the vibrant Monsterland. Drawing inspiration from Grindhouse films, comic books, and B-movies, the animation pairs bright colors with explicit gore and humor. 

Though primarily a humorous and audacious homage to horror, action, and spy genres, the film lightly touches on themes of heroism. With mixed initial reviews but growing cult status, it appeals to mature audiences appreciating edgy, adult animation. In essence, “El Superbeasto” offers an uncensored, irreverent spin on animated horror, celebrating and parodying its diverse inspirations.

Dead Space: Downfall (2008)

Dead Space: Downfall is a 2008 animated sci-fi horror film and a prequel to the acclaimed “Dead Space” video game. Set aboard the mining spaceship USG Ishimura, the crew unearths a mysterious artifact, the “Marker,” from planet Aegis VII, unleashing the nightmarish Necromorphs – reanimated and mutated corpses. The film’s animation style mirrors the game’s dark, ominous atmosphere with a touch of realism, especially evident in the grotesque designs of the Necromorphs. 

Exploring themes like the perils of unbridled scientific curiosity and existential fears, the movie resonated with fans and became a cult favorite among animated horror enthusiasts. Targeted at mature audiences for its graphic content, it’s a crucial bridge to the “Dead Space” game series and an independent showcase of horror animation.

Resident Evil: Vendetta is a 2017 Japanese animated horror film directed by Takanori Tsujimoto, connected to the renowned “Resident Evil” game series by Capcom. The plot revolves around Chris Redfield, Leon S. Kennedy, and Rebecca Chambers trying to thwart Glenn Arias from unleashing a lethal airborne virus. Using CGI animation, the film encapsulates a detailed, game-like world with meticulously designed action sequences and horrifying creatures. 

Key themes include the ethical implications of biotechnological research and the looming fear of bioterrorism. Although it garnered mixed critical reviews, fans appreciated its loyalty to the franchise’s roots. Targeting mature audiences, especially “Resident Evil” enthusiasts, the film is a thrilling blend of action and horror, echoing the spirit of the original games.

Coraline (2009)

Coraline is a 2009 dark fantasy film directed by Henry Selick and produced by Laika, adapted from Neil Gaiman’s 2002 novella. This stop-motion animated masterpiece delves into the eerie realm of an alternate universe. Coraline Jones, the protagonist, stumbles upon a parallel world seemingly superior to hers but quickly realizes its evil nature, particularly from the sinister “Other Mother” with button eyes. 

The film’s vibrant animation contrasts the two worlds, with the parallel one luring Coraline in with its bright allure. The themes explored include the perils of escapism, courage, and familial bonds. Garnering widespread acclaim and an Academy Award nomination, “Coraline” appeals to older children and adults, resonating with those fond of dark, fantastical tales. 

Black Butler: Book of the Atlantic (2017)

Black Butler: Book of the Atlantic (2017) is a Japanese animated film adapting the “Luxury Liner” arc of the manga “Black Butler” by Yana Toboso. Directed by Noriyuki Abe and produced by A-1 Pictures, the plot is set in the 19th century, when Ciel Phantomhive and his demon butler, Sebastian Michaelis, board the Campania ship. They investigate the Aurora Society’s experiments on reviving the dead, leading to a zombie-infested ship. 

The film features intense battles, deep character relationships, and high-quality animation. Fans appreciated the film’s balance of humor, action, and drama, making it a hit among the series’ followers and newcomers.

Frankenweenie (2012)

Frankenweenie is a 2012 stop-motion animated film by Tim Burton, expanding on his 1984 short film. This dark fantasy comedy-horror mirrors 1931’s “Frankenstein,” delving into the reanimation concept. The story revolves around Victor Frankenstein, a boy who resurrects his pet dog, Sparky, leading to comedic chaos. The film’s black-and-white palette adds a nostalgic touch, complemented by Burton’s signature character designs. 

The themes explored include love, loss, and the ethics of science. Earning positive reviews and an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature, “Frankenweenie” appeals to both children and adults. Mainly, fans of Burton and classic horror will appreciate its blend of dark humor and profound themes, making it a distinctive take on the reanimation narrative.

Zombillénium (2017)

Zombillénium is a 2017 French-Belgian animated comedy directed by Arthur de Pins and Alexis Ducord, inspired by de Pins’ comic series. Diverging from typical zombie tales, it humorously portrays monsters working at a horror-themed amusement park. The narrative centers on a human turned zombie who, after an accident, joins the park’s unique staff, highlighting their trials and tribulations. Visually, the film mirrors the comic’s colorful and captivating art. 

Thematically, it addresses acceptance, identity, and societal outcasts with a fantastical twist on workplace dynamics. Garnering positive feedback for its fresh take on zombies and engaging animation, it’s a family-friendly alternative within the zombie genre. “Zombillénium” entertains by humanizing monsters and showcasing their comedic, day-to-day challenges.

Conclusion

As we conclude our cinematic journey through the world of animated zombie movies, it becomes evident that animation’s potential knows no bounds. This genre, which masterfully merges the realms of horror with artistry, showcases the versatility and depth that animation can achieve. Each movie on our list not only serves as a testament to the filmmakers’ creativity but also redefines how we perceive and experience the undead narrative.