The Dead Walk

Andy Black & Steve Earles

Noir Publishing 2008

Web: http://www.noirpublishing.co.uk

The Dead Walk is the ultimate guide to Zombie films. It is not only comprehensive but covers zombies in the widest possible interpretation hence also includes everything from the early traditions of Voodoo to the skeletons of Jason and the Argonauts. The shock horrors of the splatter films of the Eighties to zombies in science fiction. This is really quite an exhaustive coverage of the subject including every possible aspect of the zombie film phenomenon around the world with a fascinating discussion of “Zombie World Cinema”.

The book opens with a solid introduction to the historical roots of Voodoo and offers a credible background to the nature of voodoo, theories on how zombies are created and background on the various psychoactive substances which are used in Haiti for the purpose. This chapter includes some good scientific background including discussion of such films as The Serpent and the Rainbow which was based on Wade Davis’ research into the zombies of Haiti.

This is followed by an examination of the early black and white classic zombie films and their significance within the development of early cinema. Of course, no horror book would be complete with a section on Hammer and next we get a solid chapter on Hammer horror zombies primarily focuses on the classic Plague of the Zombies. General overviews are also complimented with specific chapters of significant filmmakers such as the next chapters on George Romero and Lucio Fulci. Covering each of their zombies films in quite some detail including lesser known titles as a Romero’s The Crazies.

We then look at specifically American Zombie films and next have a superb overview of Zombies in film from around the globe. From New Zealand to China, Spain to France – Jeff Franco and Rollins, they are all there !

Of course, there are Zombies which cross over from horror to science fiction and this is covered next. One of the more interesting zombie film derivations developed from the West’s obsession with Egypt, so next we have a special look at Mummies (with special reference to the new universal Mummy series) and finally a look at the latest trends in zombie films. This is also a superb filmography.

It is amazing how many films are given critical attention with intelligent and insightful reviews. From all the films of George A Romero (as well as all the remakes and derivatives), to the Evil Dead Series, Hellraiser Series, Planet Terror, Shaun of the Dead and Doomsday. From the most obscure to the best known, they are all covered, it would be hard to list all the films which are given loving attention. The Dead Walk is also filled to the brim with lots of photos and images. This is a superb looking book with over 300 illustrations including lots of very rare stills.

There are also special “focus” sections such as special look at Day of the Dead and the original script, the Knight Templar and Spanish Zombie films of Amando de Ossorio and the connection between Romero’s Zombie films and the I am Legend Science fiction story.

This really is the ultimate guide for Zombie film lovers and is most highly recommended.