Zombie films have been a staple of horror cinema for decades, capturing the imagination of audiences with their mix of gore, suspense, and social commentary. While the popularity of zombies in film has waxed and waned over the years, there are a handful of classics that stand out as the best of the best. Here are the top five zombie films ever made:

5. Train to Busan (2016) – This South Korean film takes the zombie genre in a new direction, telling the story of a group of passengers on a high-speed train as they try to survive the zombie outbreak. With its nail-biting suspense and heart-wrenching moments, Train to Busan is a roller coaster ride of a film, and it is a must-see for fans of zombie cinema.

4. 28 Days Later (2002) – Directed by Danny Boyle, 28 Days Later is a film that reinvigorated the zombie genre with its fast-moving, rage-filled zombies. The film follows the story of Jim, who wakes up from a coma to find that the world has been overrun by zombies. With its haunting cinematography and intense action, 28 Days Later is a thrilling and suspenseful film that stands as one of the best zombie movies of all time. The film’s exploration of humanity in the face of a crisis is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, making it a standout in the zombie genre.

3. Shaun of the Dead (2004) – This comedic take on the zombie genre comes from the mind of Simon Pegg and director Edgar Wright. Shaun of the Dead follows the titular Shaun as he navigates the zombie apocalypse while trying to save his girlfriend and his mother. With its blend of horror and humor, Shaun of the Dead is a fresh and entertaining take on the zombie genre, and it has become a cult classic.

2. Dawn of the Dead (1978) – Another film directed by George A. Romero, Dawn of the Dead takes the zombie genre to new heights with its visceral violence and dark humor. The film follows a group of survivors as they seek refuge in a shopping mall, only to discover that the mall has become a stronghold for zombies. Dawn of the Dead is a thrilling and suspenseful film, and its commentary on consumerism and the emptiness of modern life is both biting and insightful.

1. Night of the Living Dead (1968) – Directed by George A. Romero, Night of the Living Dead is widely considered the progenitor of the modern zombie film. The film follows a group of survivors holed up in a farmhouse as they fend off hordes of zombies outside. Despite its low budget, Night of the Living Dead is a masterpiece of suspense and atmosphere, and its critique of American society and politics is as relevant today as it was in 1968.

In conclusion, these five films represent the best that the zombie genre has to offer, from suspenseful thrills to dark humor to poignant commentary on society and the human condition. Whether you’re a fan of classic horror or more contemporary offerings, these films are sure to satisfy your hunger for the undead.