Humor in Zombie Movies | Top Examples on Netflix

Throughout the years, the zombie genre has constantly evolved and expanded with various themes, including humor. Focusing on Netflix as a source for these movies, our goal in this article is to study and discuss the best examples of humor in zombie movies. Let's embark on a thrilling journey to explore how laughter and fear intermingle in the world of the undead.

Table of Contents

1. Why Humor is Important in Zombie Movies
2. The Art of Balancing Horror and Comedy
3. Top 5 Humorous Zombie Movies on Netflix
4. How to Appreciate the Humor in Zombie Movies
5. Conclusion

1. Why Humor is Important in Zombie Movies

Though zombies are commonly associated with fear and violence, humor has increasingly emerged as a key aspect in many successful zombie movies. But why is humor so important in this genre?

• Creativity enhancer: Humor provides an opportunity for filmmakers to explore the genre in a unique way. By adding a comedic twist, creators can experiment with different storylines and character dynamics, making the movie far more engaging to the audience.
• Emotional relief: Laughter can provide a break from the intense emotions typically experienced during horror films. This can help make the movie more enjoyable and less overwhelming for viewers.
• Accessible storytelling: Comedic elements can make the movie more appealing to broader audiences who may not be well-acquainted with the horror genre. This increased accessibility can attract viewers who may not typically watch zombie movies.

In essence, infusing humor in zombie movies opens new doors for creative expression and facilitates a captivating viewing experience.

2. The Art of Balancing Horror and Comedy

Finding the right balance between horror and comedy in zombie movies is crucial for the overall viewer experience. Inappropriate humor can detract from the plot's tension and fear, while a total absence of humor can make the movie monotonous.

To master the art of balancing horror and comedy, filmmakers often consider the following approaches:

1. Timing: Being mindful of when to insert humor amidst the scares is essential. By placing comedic moments strategically, filmmakers can enhance the dramatic effect while avoiding undermining the tension.
2. Character development: Often, filmmakers use humor to reveal the characters' personalities and traits. This assists in creating more relatable and well-rounded characters, which are key to maintaining the audience's interest.
3. Situational comedy: Filmmakers may employ situational humor by placing characters in absurd situations that naturally evoke laughter. This technique allows creators to maintain a solid balance between horror and comedy without disrupting the overall narrative.

By incorporating these strategies, filmmakers can create enticing zombie movies that effectively balance horror with comedy.

3. Top 5 Humorous Zombie Movies on Netflix

Now that we've covered the importance of humor in zombie movies and its balancing act with horror, let's dive into the best examples available on Netflix:

1. 1. Zombieland (2009)

   Directed by Ruben Fleischer, Zombieland stars Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone, and Abigail Breslin. The film tells the story of a band of misfits navigating a zombie-infested United States. With its unforgettable catchphrases, Zombieland emphasizes situational comedy and offers a fresh take on the zombie apocalypse.

2. 2. The Return of the Living Dead (1985)

   Directed by Dan O'Bannon, this cult classic combines punk rock and the undead in a hilarious and gory fashion. The movie follows a group of teenagers and employees trapped in a medical supply warehouse during a mishap-triggered zombie apocalypse. The Return of the Living Dead is remembered for its dark comedy and memorable zombie moments.

3. 3. Little Monsters (2019)

   In this Australian-American film, a washed-up musician, played by Alexander England, volunteers to be a chaperone on his nephew's school excursion. Things go awry when a zombie outbreak occurs, and England's character, the kids, and their teacher, played by Lupita Nyong'o, must fend off the undead. Little Monsters features both slapstick humor and touching character moments.

4. 4. One Cut of the Dead (2017)

   This Japanese low-budget indie film received massive acclaim for its innovative storytelling and heartfelt humor. Directed by Shinichiro Ueda, One Cut of the Dead is set in an abandoned factory where the crew of a zombie movie is attacked by real zombies. The film's unique twist on the found-footage format and blend of horror and comedy quickly earned it a dedicated fanbase.

5. 5. Santa Clarita Diet (2017-2019)

   Although more of a TV show than a movie, Santa Clarita Diet garnered widespread praise for its hilarious take on the zombie genre. The series, created by Victor Fresco, follows married realtors Sheila (Drew Barrymore) and Joel Hammond (Timothy Olyphant) as they navigate Sheila's sudden transformation into a flesh-eating undead. The sitcom-like approach and witty humor make the show a refreshing addition to our list.

4. How to Appreciate the Humor in Zombie Movies

The appreciation of humor in zombie movies is often a matter of perspective and mindset. As a viewer, you must be willing to embrace the comedic elements alongside the horror. Here are some tips on how to enjoy and appreciate humor in zombie movies:

1. Embrace the absurdity: Many of these movies include absurd scenes and situations that, on the surface, may seem out of place. Don't overanalyze or critique the unrealistic moments; instead, embrace the absurdity and allow yourself to laugh.
2. Appreciate the creative approach: Understand that filmmakers often use humor to add a unique twist to their stories. Recognize the creative risks they take by incorporating comedy in a horror-themed movie, and admire the innovative storytelling that often results from mixing the two genres.
3. Engage with the characters: Become invested in the characters and their relationships, as they are often the source of humor. Sympathizing with their struggles and appreciating their quirks can help you connect with the comedic elements of the story.
4. Watch with friends: Sharing the laughter and enjoyment of humorous zombie movies with friends can help enhance the experience. Watching together can create memorable moments and build a shared appreciation for the genre.

By maintaining an open mindset and surrounding yourself with others who appreciate humor in zombie movies, you can fully enjoy the delightful fusion of comedy and horror that these films offer.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, humor plays a significant role in enhancing the viewer experience in the zombie genre. As demonstrated by the top examples available on Netflix, balancing humor with horror results in entertaining and memorable movies that showcase creative approaches to storytelling. It's important to appreciate the levity provided by comedic elements and enjoy the absurdity of the fusion between laughter and fear. So, grab some popcorn and brace yourself for a thrilling ride with these gut-busting zombie flicks!