Dear Zombie Master: Smart Zombies?

by Richard

Dear Zombie Master,

I have seen a decent amount of zombie movies (although not as many as I would like) - some good and some... well bad. The one thing that makes me like the movie a whole lot less is when it has ‘smart zombies’. You know, the kind that can talk, plan or even run. I can’t stand it! I like my zombies like Romero’s - the brainless kind that stumble around.

My question to you is: do you like it when zombies can talk, or even function somewhat normally as in Land of the Dead where they learn to use guns and weapons and talk to each other? I thought it was a decent movie, but that aspect ruined it for me.

Secondly, do you have any ideas for a zombie movie if you were to make you own? I’m really hoping for a good unique zombie movie...something with a really good story line. But usually when they try something different, it’s not that great. I personally have a great idea on a zombie movie (well at least I think so) and can’t wait to make it or at least pitch the idea to someone.

Richard

Richard,

I have let my feelings be known regarding the 'smart zombies' before but since it has been a while I am willing to let them be known again here.

I feel that the faster zombies, not the speed freaks but the runners, have added a new and welcome dimension to the zombie genre. I do not however feel that smart, learning, community organizing zombies are needed or logically acceptable. That being said, when George A. Romero does it you will never hear me complain because after all he is the father of the genre and can do whatever he wants to do with it.

When it comes to my ideas concerning a zombie movie of my own I always start to wonder what a collaboration between Romero and Fulci would have given birth to. Imagine if Fulci was given the original Day of the Dead script to work with. I quiver with the thought but alas it can never be.

Good hunting and aim for the head,

The Zombie Master