20 Amazing Zombie Movies and Shows to Watch This Weekend (That Aren’t The Walking Dead)
From cult classics to underrated series—and yes, a zombie Christmas musical—these picks are worth a weekend binge.
Tired of The Walking Dead reruns but still in the mood for some undead mayhem? A Redditor asked for zombie movie and series recommendations after running through all the major hits—Train to Busan, Alive, Resident Evil, Shaun of the Dead, and more. Naturally, the comments did not disappoint.
So whether you’re looking for spine-chilling horror, a little campy fun, or surprisingly heartfelt zombie storytelling (yes, it exists!), here are some picks worth streaming this weekend.
1. 28 Days Later (2002)
Danny Boyle’s gritty reimagining of the zombie genre basically started the fast-zombie trend. The tension builds immediately from the iconic empty-London opener and never really lets up. Its sequel, 28 Weeks Later, adds even more chaos—and a third installment (28 Years Later) is finally on the horizon.
2. [REC] (2007)
This Spanish found-footage horror film turns a simple apartment building into a claustrophobic nightmare. It’s terrifying in the best way and set the gold standard for handheld horror. If you like your zombies with a healthy dose of panic and realism, start here.
3. Z Nation (2014–2018)
Like The Walking Dead but unhinged in the best way, Z Nation brings humor, gore, and a surprising amount of heart. It’s over-the-top and self-aware, with wacky plotlines that actually make it more bingeable. Also, fun fact—it’s in the same universe as Black Summer.
4. Kingdom (2019–2021)
Set in Korea’s Joseon dynasty, this show delivers epic palace drama with a gruesome zombie twist. The production value is stunning, and the story has real emotional weight. It’s one of Netflix’s most stylish—and underrated—zombie series.
5. I Am a Hero (2015)
This Japanese adaptation of a popular manga takes a more psychological approach to survival horror. The main character isn’t your typical action hero, which makes his journey that much more compelling. It’s weird, wild, and full of unforgettable moments.
6. Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)
Yes, it’s a zombie Christmas musical—and somehow it works. It’s like High School Musical meets Shaun of the Dead, with catchy songs and blood-splattered dance numbers. It’s a festive and surprisingly emotional ride.
7. Lisa Frankenstein (2024)
Quirky, colorful, and delightfully weird, this one feels like a love letter to ‘80s teen horror with a Tim Burton twist. It pairs perfectly with Warm Bodies for a rom-zom double feature. Expect camp, laughs, and a surprising amount of heart.
8. The Night Eats the World (2018)
This film is quiet, slow-burning, and emotionally heavy—but in a good way. It’s a lonely survival story with minimal dialogue and maximum atmosphere. If you liked Cast Away but thought it needed zombies, this is your movie.
9. Day of the Dead (1985)
Part of George A. Romero’s zombie trilogy, this film leans into philosophical questions about humanity and control. It’s slower-paced than Dawn of the Dead but more psychologically intense. Also, it features some of the most memorable practical effects in horror history.
10. Helix (2014–2015)
While it’s more sci-fi than horror, Helix brings serious zombie-adjacent vibes thanks to its mysterious virus and arctic isolation. There’s black goo, creepy labs, and plenty of paranoia. It’s one of those underrated series you’ll wish had gotten a third season.
11. World War Z (2013)
A globe-trotting action flick with high-speed zombies and an A-list lead (hello, Brad Pitt). It’s more blockbuster than horror, but still packed with high-stakes tension and jaw-dropping set pieces. That wall-scaling zombie swarm? Iconic.
12. Little Monsters (2019)
Lupita Nyong’o sings, slays zombies, and protects kindergartners in this charming horror-comedy. It’s heartwarming, hilarious, and surprisingly original. Come for the chaos, stay for the ukulele.
13. The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
Set in a post-apocalyptic world plagued by a fungal infection, this one takes a more cerebral approach to the genre. The young lead actress delivers a performance that’s equal parts chilling and moving. It’ll definitely leave you thinking after the credits roll.
14. Zombieland (2009)
This one’s a modern classic—equal parts zombie carnage and comedy gold. Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, and Emma Stone have amazing chemistry, and the survival rules still hold up. Don’t forget the Twinkies. (Still one of my favorites by a mile.)
15. Cockneys vs Zombies (2012)
London’s East End meets the undead in this ridiculous, fast-paced comedy. Picture old folks with machine guns and banter-heavy fight scenes. It’s absolutely absurd, but I mean that in a good way.
16. Juan of the Dead (2011)
Cuba’s take on the zombie apocalypse is sharp, satirical, and incredibly entertaining. This cult favorite mixes political commentary with slapstick zombie chaos. You’ve probably never seen anything like it.
17. Return of the Living Dead (1985)
If you’ve ever wondered where the “brains!” trope came from—it’s this movie. It leans into its punk-rock roots with wild energy and a killer soundtrack. Perfect for fans of horror with a heavy dose of fun.
18. The Beyond (1981)
This Italian cult classic is part of Lucio Fulci’s unofficial zombie trilogy—and it’s a fever dream from start to finish. Expect surreal visuals, lots of blood, and minimal logic. It’s more about vibes than plot, and that’s part of the appeal.
19. From (2022– )
A town you can’t escape, creepy creatures in the woods, and a mystery that keeps getting deeper. While not strictly a zombie show, the horror elements will scratch that same itch. It’s like Lost meets The Mist, with a whole lot of jump scares.
20. Warm Bodies (2013)
And finally—my personal favorite. This rom-zom-com tells the story from the zombie’s perspective and somehow makes it sweet and funny. It’s the movie that started my Nicholas Hoult obsession, and I stand by it—he doesn’t miss.
10 Absolutely Flawless Films, According to People Who Love to Pick Movies Apart
If you’re looking for a movie night that’s practically bulletproof, these 10 titles have the Internet’s vote for “flawless.”
Read more: 10 Absolutely Flawless Films, According to People Who Love to Pick Movies Apart
12 Hidden Gems on Amazon Prime You’ll Wish You Watched Sooner
Yes, they’re actually good—and no, you probably haven’t heard of half of them.
Read more: 12 Hidden Gems on Amazon Prime You’ll Wish You Watched Sooner
10 of the Best Recent Horror Movies to Watch This Weekend
If you’re in the mood for a scary movie that’s disturbing and unsettling in the best way, a recent online thread has some fantastic recommendations from fellow horror fans. It’s not too late to catch up!
Read more: 10 of the Best Recent Horror Movies to Watch This Weekend
10 of the Best Movies with a Good Twist to Watch This Weekend
The best movies keep you guessing, totally hooked, and wanting more. Lucky for you, I’ve got a list of ten of the best movies with twists so good you’ll be glued to your screen. No spoilers, just enough to make you super curious.
Read more: 10 of the Best Movies with a Good Twist to Watch This Weekend
12 of the Most Unforgettable Movies Ever Made
If you’re up for more movie recommendations (and I know you can always find time for a great film!), here are a few unforgettable titles from a recent online discussion. These films are sure to make you think deeply about life!
