Undead Ends: Stories of Apocalypse

Undead Ends explores how modern British and American apocalypse films depict humanness and survival in the aftermath of disaster, framing them as sites of interpretive struggle. It argues that these films envision the end of a particular world, not the end of humanness, and can unfold towards unexpected futures with creative re-reading.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2019
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

Undead Ends delves into the intricate tapestry of human imagination and survival in the wake of catastrophic events. This thought-provoking book situates modern British and American apocalypse films as arenas of interpretive conflict, shedding light on the profound questions that arise: What precisely is ending? Whose dreams of a fresh start take center stage, and why? How do these films, despite their apparent limitations, create space for envisioning new beginnings that transcend the confines of our familiar world?

In his compelling argument, Trimble posits that contemporary apocalypse films are less about envisioning the end of the world as the end of a specific world, but rather the end of a particular iteration of human existence. Rather than heralding the end of humanness, Trimble suggests that these films are more concerned with the end of Man. Through a meticulous examination of a range of films, including The Road, I Am Legend, 28 Days Later, 28 Weeks Later, Children of Men, and Beasts of the Southern Wild, Trimble demonstrates how popular stories of apocalypse possess the power to challenge and subvert the narrative of humanness. By engaging in creative re-reading, these films can even unfold towards unexpected and transformative futures.

In essence, mainstream apocalypse films serve as a fertile ground for imagining a world that exists After Man. They offer a unique opportunity to explore the possibilities and consequences of a world devoid of human presence, allowing us to reflect on the essence of our humanity and the potential for new beginnings. Through the lens of Undead Ends, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between disaster, survival, and the human spirit, paving the way for a more nuanced and introspective exploration of our collective future.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813593647