The Zombie Movie Encyclopedia, Volume 2: 2000-2010

The Zombie Movie Encyclopedia: The First 11 Years of the New Millennium is a comprehensive guide to zombie movies from 2000 to 2010, featuring critical analysis of over 280 feature-length movies from 28 countries and six continents.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

The following is a comprehensive overview of zombie movies in the first 11 years of the new millennium, the most dynamic and vital period yet in the history of the zombie genre. It serves not only as a follow-up to its predecessor, The Zombie Movie Encyclopedia, McFarland 2001, which covered movies from 1932 up until the late 1990s, but also as a fresh exploration of what uniquely defines the genre in the 2000s. In-depth entries provide critical analysis of the zombie as a creature in more than 280 feature-length movies, from 28 countries and filmed on six continents. An appendix offers shorter entries for more than 100 shorts and serials.

The zombie genre has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years, with an abundance of films being released that explore the undead menace in new and exciting ways. This period has been particularly fruitful for zombie movies, as it has seen the emergence of new sub-genres and the re-imagining of classic zombie stories.

One of the most notable trends in zombie movies during the first 11 years of the new millennium is the emergence of the zombie comedy. These films take a lighthearted approach to the genre, often parodying popular zombie tropes and conventions. Examples of zombie comedies include "Shaun of the Dead" (2004), "Zombieland" (2009), and "Warm Bodies" (2013). These films have been popular with audiences, as they provide a much-needed break from the intense and often grim nature of traditional zombie movies.

Another trend in zombie movies during this period is the exploration of the zombie as a political metaphor. Many films have used the zombie as a symbol of social and economic inequality, with the undead representing the marginalized and oppressed. Examples of these films include "Dawn of the Dead" (2004), "28 Days Later" (2002), and "The Walking Dead" (2010-present). These films have been praised for their social commentary and have helped to raise awareness of important social issues.

In addition to these trends, zombie movies have also continued to explore the psychological effects of living in a world overrun by zombies. Many films have focused on the struggles of survivors to maintain their humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. Examples of these films include "The Mist" (2007), "The Road" (2009), and "The Last of Us" (2013). These films have been praised for their emotional depth and have helped to humanize the zombie as a creature.

Despite these positive developments, zombie movies have also faced criticism for their lack of originality and their reliance on familiar tropes. Some critics have argued that the genre has become oversaturated, with too many films being released that are similar to each other. Additionally, some films have been criticized for their lack of attention to detail, with poor special effects and unrealistic plotlines.

Despite these criticisms, zombie movies have continued to be popular with audiences, and the genre has continued to evolve and grow. With the rise of streaming services and the increasing popularity of independent film, there is no doubt that zombie movies will continue to play an important role in the film industry in the years to come.

In conclusion, the first 11 years of the new millennium have been a particularly dynamic and vital period for zombie movies. The genre has seen the emergence of new sub-genres, the exploration of the zombie as a political metaphor, and the psychological effects of living in a world overrun by zombies. While zombie movies have faced criticism for their lack of originality and reliance on familiar tropes, they have continued to be popular with audiences and have helped to shape the film industry. As the genre continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see what new directions it will take and what new challenges it will face.

Dimension: 254 x 178 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476691381