The zombie genre, often reduced to gory clichés and survival horror tropes, is in fact a surprisingly flexible storytelling vehicle. From post-apocalyptic drama to horror-comedy and slow-burning social commentary, zombies can embody vastly different tones, themes, and aesthetics. This diversity is strikingly illustrated in three very different TV series: The Last of Us, Ash vs Evil Dead, and The Walking Dead. Each explores the undead in a unique way, reflecting contrasting approaches to fear, survival, and humanity itself.
1. The Last of Us: Emotional Depth in a Post-Apocalyptic World
Based on the acclaimed video game, The Last of Us brings a cinematic and emotionally resonant perspective to the zombie genre. Its “zombies” – victims of a fungal infection known as Cordyceps – are not just mindless monsters, but remnants of a world gone wrong. The series focuses heavily on character development, exploring trauma, love, and the moral ambiguity of survival. The infection serves as both a literal threat and a metaphor for loss, transformation, and the fragility of human connection. This version of the zombie narrative leans into intimate storytelling and slow tension rather than constant gore or action.
2. Ash vs Evil Dead: Splatter Comedy and Camp Horror
On the opposite end of the spectrum lies Ash vs Evil Dead, a series that embraces chaos, absurdity, and over-the-top violence. A continuation of Sam Raimi’s Evil Dead franchise, it brings slapstick horror and irreverent humor to the undead mythos. Here, the “Deadites” are demonic, grotesque, and unpredictable, making them less tragic and more comic relief – albeit gory comic relief. Ash Williams, the reluctant chainsaw-wielding hero, embodies a kind of anti-hero masculinity with a wink to the audience. The series mocks genre conventions while delivering blood-soaked entertainment, proving that zombies can be hilarious as well as horrifying.
3. The Walking Dead: A Slow-Burning Human Drama
Arguably the most iconic zombie show of the past decade, The Walking Dead presents a bleak and drawn-out portrayal of the apocalypse. In this series, the undead are the catalyst, but not the main focus. Instead, the real horror lies in human nature: the breakdown of society, the rise of ruthless leaders, and the moral compromises required to survive. Over multiple seasons, the show explores themes of loyalty, leadership, and identity in a world where civilization has collapsed. Zombies – referred to as “walkers” – are ever-present, but more as an environmental threat than the narrative core.
Conclusion: Zombies as Genre Chameleons
These three series demonstrate the zombie genre’s versatility. The Last of Us offers emotional gravitas and character-driven drama. Ash vs Evil Dead turns the undead into comic tools for anarchic fun. The Walking Dead builds a grim epic of survival and social collapse. Whether used to explore human emotion, parody horror tropes, or reflect on society, zombies continue to adapt and evolve – proving that even the dead can take many forms.
”The Last of Us” seasons 1 and 2 are exclusively available on Sky Show.
”Ash vs Evil Dead” complete seasons 1 to 3 are available on Sky Show.
”The Walking Dead” series, including the spin-offs series ”Dead City”, ”Daryl Dixon” and ”The Ones Who Live”, are available on Sky Show.
