Evolution of Zombies on Film

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THESIS STATEMENT: The ability for filmmakers to create zombies on film has evolved greatly over time with the use of advanced make-up applications and computer generated images. ZOMBIES ON FILM Evolution of Zombies on Film Rebecca Gardner Western Governors University Abstract The evolution of make-up techniques and special effects in movies have had a profound impact on the creation of zombies in film. First created with mortician's wax and chocolate syrup, now these monsters can be brought to life with advanced make-up applications and computer generated images. Evolution of Zombies on Film The term zombie is referred to as a corpse reanimated through unnatural means, and in some cases, is usually depicted to have a knack for human flesh (Clute & Grant, 1999). Zombies are believed to have originated in the Caribbean Republic of Haiti where witch doctors revive dead people to do their bidding (Chevallier, 2006). This concept and origin of the Zombie was first introduced to the United States by W.S. Seabrook's Magic Island (Mumble-Jumble,1940). Seabrook's publication then spawned other works encompassing resurrected mindless corpses which subsequently became elements elements of interest for filmmakers. From paper to reel, the process of creating Zombies has tremendously evolved with the birth of computer generating image technology. The Epic of Gilgamesh (Anonymous, 1960), an epic poem from Ancient Mesopotamia, also alluded the Zombie's concept, as the goddess Ishtar pledged to “knock down the gates of the Netherworld, and let the dead outnumber and devour the living.” Though the epic does not give any description of the appearance of the dead, the concept of flesh eating dead creatures are still synonymous to the idea of

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