Zombie Horror

Common codes and conventions

Gore Possibly the most recurring element within Zombie horror films is the blood and gore. Within the genre the antagonists always shown beaten and bloody. This is done to construct a threatening group of antagonists which appear inhuman and unapproachable. This is also done to help construct the terrifying fear of infection with the protagonists are trying to avoid.

Survivors In every zombie film there are survivors. This gives the the storyline something to revolve around. If there where no survivors there would be nothing but half dead people running around eating each other.

It also provides the audience with something to cling onto. As long as there are survivors the audience are hopeful for these characters to continue to survive and fear for them not doing.

Weapons

In all Zombie horrors one of the most important recurring elements is the survivors being kitted out with brutal weapons to defend themselves against the terrifying, deadly antagonists.

Often the weapons shown within Zombie horrors are large hand-held blunt weapons (melee weapons) which can be used to further construct the gore and show the bloody lengths the characters go to defend themselves.

Numbers

In all Zombie horrors the antagonists are shown in large numbers. This is done to enforce the idea humanity is lost and the chances of survival is minimal.

Open Space

Open spaces are important within a Zombie horror film as it creates the feeling of been alone, as well as creating a sense of otherness. Also it enforcing the horrific feel of waiting for something to happen.