You should be able to tell at this point that here at StudioBinder, we love our zombie movies. While due diligence always goes to the classics like Day of the Dead and Zombieland, there have been plenty of great zombie flicks that proven this genre isn’t dead quite yet. Time to enjoy the little things because we’re ranking the top 10 best new zombie movies.
For the purposes of this list, we’re only including new zombie movies of 2019 and 2018. We’ll also give you a little something to look forward to by including a list of some upcoming pictures that are certain to terrify you. Let’s go!
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New Zombie Movies of 2019
10. Scooby-Doo! Return to Zombie Island (2019)
Scooby-Doo! Return to Zombie Island | Trailer
Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island was a landmark moment in the franchise. For the first time, the gang had actual monsters to run away from! The much-belated sequel that came out in 2019 is clearly trying to rekindle some of that nostalgia. However, it just doesn’t live up to the original. While the first Zombie Island film had genuine scares, this one is mostly just retreading old ground. Still, for kids, it’s probably scary enough.
BEst New Zombie Movies
Conclusion
It just doesn’t have that same charm as the original. But do yourself a favor and watch Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island for a better trip down memory lane.
2019 Zombie Movies
9. 3 From Hell (2019)
3 From Hell Premiere | Muse TV
People tend to either love Rob Zombie’s eclectic horror films like House of 1000 Corpses and The Devil’s Rejects. If you’re into that style, then 3 From Hell will likely entertain. If you’re not, it won’t win you over. The film tends to be overly nihilistic for its own good. But if all you want out of a zombie flick is to see gratuitous gore, it gets the job done in spades.
BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
You’ll already know whether you like it based on your opinions of Rob Zombie’s previous films. For me, it couldn’t help but feel like an exercise in futility.
A New Zombie Movie
8. Zombieland: Double Tap (2019)
Zombieland: Double Tap | Bloopers and Gag Reel
Zombieland was a surprise hit in 2009. 10 years later, Double Tap tries to recapture that same party-like energy, and it mostly succeeds. There are some new jokes to keep you laughing, but mostly, it harkens back to the good ol’ days, mainly focusing on the now classic Bill Murray bit. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it has a lot of fun in the process. Ultimately, it’s a worthy sequel that’ll keep you entertained.
BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
Don’t go in with high expectations. Accept it for what it is, and you can have a good time.
Latest Zombie Movies
7. The Dead Don’t Die (2019)
The Dead Don’t Die | Bill Murray Interview
If there’s one thing The Dead Don’t Die does very well is that it proves you can still do something unique within the zombie genre. Within the silliness and zombie mayhem, there’s an environmentalist message among all of the droll wit. It may not always land tonally, but anyone who has a fondness for Jim Jarmusch’s offbeat sensibilities can find something to have a good time with here.
BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
This film definitely isn’t for everyone. Just don’t go in expecting another Only Lovers Left Alive.
New Zombie Movie List
6. Rabid (2019)
The Sandlot Trailer
David Cronenberg made a little cult classic in 1977 called Rabid. It receive a remake as one of the new zombie movies of 2019, and as far as remakes go, it’s a knock out of the park. It wonderfully pays tribute to the body horror aspect of the original while having enough bite to stand on its own.
After receiving plastic surgery, Sarah turns all of her sexual conquests into zombies, and only she contains the cure. It has a wicked sense of humor, and while you might appreciate the practical effects of the original, there’s more than enough here to satiate anyone’s appetite.
BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
When you want your zombie movie to come with a side of body horror, Rabid is as good as they come. Although the original David Cronenberg version may be preferable to aspiring filmmakers.
Zombie Movies of 2018
5. Overlord (2018)
Half in the Bag | The Haunting of Hill House and Overlord
Overlord is a B-movie with an A-movie’s budget. It’s set during World War II. A group of soldiers go in expecting to kill some Nazis only to find the undead waiting for them. This movie easily could’ve dissolved into schlock, but it wears its ridiculousness on its sleeve. It knows what it is and has a blast with it. When you just want some good, dumb fun, Overlord is the film to watch.
BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
Overlord transplants the zombie genre into a World War II drama. It mostly works, especially if you can hold out until the roller coaster of a third act.
Great New Zombie Movies of 2018
4. The Cured (2018)
Ellen Page on The Cured | Variety
The problem with so many zombie flicks these days is that they’re content with just retreading ground that’s been done before. The Cured from 2018 wants to discuss relevant thematic issues within the context of its genre constraints.
The Cured takes place in a world where a cure is finally found for a zombie outbreak. Zombies begin to come back to actual life and must come to reckon with the horrific deeds they’ve committed. It’s not as scary as other films on this list, but it plays with a lot of interesting ideas and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
The Cured wins bonus points for being a different kind of zombie film. It has its shortcomings, but when you want something cerebral and horrifying to watch, this is what you should reach for.
Excellent Recent Zombie Movies
3. Cargo (2018)
Major League is a great baseball movie. The story follows a group of troubled professional baseball players intentionally assembled to lose as many games as possible so the attendance drops and the team can relocate to Miami, Florida. It’s a funny baseball movie to be sure, but the performance given by Tom Berenger is one of the best of all time.
Cargo | Behind the Scenes
One great thing about many recent zombie movies is how inventive they have to get with a tired premise. Instead of focusing on hordes of zombies and holding up in a bunker, Cargo takes a more character-driven approach. Andy only has 48 hours to live from being infected, and he has to find a safe haven for his daughter.
From its unique perspectives to its setting in the Australian wilderness, Cargo is unlike any other zombie film out there. It’s light on frights, but you actually care about the characters, making for a worthy investment of your time.BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
Genre enthusiasts may be disappointed by a lack of zombies. But if you expand your expectations, you’ll find a gem of a film.
Great New Zombie Movies
2. Anna and the Apocalypse (2018)
Anna and the Apocalypse Behind the Scenes | The Director
Zombies and musicals come together at last. Anna and the Apocalypse is a delightful genre mashup. Things don’t always gel together as well as they could, but when they do, it’s a hoot.
Even with some minor shortcomings, you can’t help but root for this film. The characters are likable. The songs are catchy. It’s a treat that’s destined to become a cult classic with sing-alongs in theaters around the country within the next decade.
BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
Anna and the Apocalypse gets a lot done with its charm. Expect more songs than blood.
Before we announce the best new recent zombie film, let’s look at what we can expect from the genre in the next couple of years.
Upcoming Zombie Movies
Army of the Dead (TBD)
Army of the Dead | First Look
Zack Snyder returns to his zombie roots with Army of the Dead, which is set to be released on Netflix sometime in the near future.
New Thai Zombie Movies
Dead Earth (2020)
Dead Earth | Trailer
Two young girls fight to survive in a resort. When they run out of gas, they have to go to the countryside to find supplies while fighting off the undead.
A New Zombie Movie Soon
Train to Busan 2 (2020)
Train to Busan | Let Me Explain
Train to Busan is one of the greatest zombie movies ever made. A sequel was announced not too long ago, and while the details are sparse, it’s expected to arrive later in 2020.
Upcoming Zombie Movies to Get Excited About
Outbreak Z (TBD)
Wesley Snipes has signed on to star in the zombie film Outbreak Z. The story will focus on two SWAT officers searching for a man who holds the key to a zombie vaccine.
New Zombie Movies Coming Out Soon
The Forest of Hands and Teeth (TBD)
The Forest of Hands and Teeth is a best-selling zombie apocalypse novel from 2009. It looks as though it’s getting a big-screen adaptation soon starring Maisie Williams.
Potential 2020 Zombie Movies
Dead Snow 3 (TBD)
Reports are out that Dead Snow 3 is happening and will finally feature zombie Hitler. No dates have been announced, but if you’re a fan of the first two, definitely set up a Google alert for this.
Exciting, Upcoming Zombie Movies
Inherit the Earth (TBD)
Based on the IDW comic book series Zombies vs. Robots, the film will follow a robot servant setting out to save a young girl from intelligent zombies. Kornél Mundruczó has been in talks to direct.
New Zombie Movie, Coming Soon
Alone (2020)
Alone | Official Trailer
Alone follows a young man held up in an apartment all by himself as a zombie apocalypse wages on outside. Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the best recent zombie film. Everything coming out in the next few years is going to have some stiff competition.
The Best New Zombie Movie
1. Little Monsters (2019)
The Natural Trailer
There are all kinds of ways to do a good zombie movie in this day and age. But sometimes, all you need to get the job done is terrific performances and genuinely creepy zombie action. A kindergarten teacher, a burn-out, and a gaggle of children are held up in a petting zoo with zombies everywhere they look.
It’s funny. It’s scary. It pulls on your heartstrings at points. It’s a great little gem of a film. This is one zombie flick with serious rewatchability potential, so check it out if you haven’t already.
BEST NEW ZOMBIE MOVIES
Conclusion
Little Monsters harkens back to zombie films of yesteryear while charting new territory for new movies to come. It’s just plain fun.
Up Next
20 Best Comedic Zombie Movies
The zombie film has been around long enough to where filmmakers can have a lot of fun with tropes and conceits. If you’re in the mood to laugh and cower in fear, then check out StudioBinder’s list of the best comedic zombie films of all time.
Up Next: Top 20 Best Funny Zombie Movies →
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