The Outbreak Narrative and the Psychology of the Uninfected in Popular Zombie Films

Abstract

Contrary to common understanding, the zombie narrative is not a mere cultural hit that seeks to amass financial gains from a (horrifyingly) engaging form of amusement. In literature, as in film and videogame, the genre has proven its depth, complexity and even relevance in the face of ongoing global events. The present paper examines 28 Days Later (2002) and 28 Weeks Later (2007) as outbreak narratives which expose underlying psychological mechanisms. Relying on Steven Taylor’s recapitulative work on the psychology of pandemics (2019), in particular, the analyses examine the striking parallels between the responses that are represented in the films and the traits and reactions that are associated with adaptive or maladaptive practices. The results further contribute to a body of quantitative/qualitative research which suggests a correlation between morbid genres and coping skills during difficult times.