Post-apocalyptic horror films featuring a rapidly spreading, rage-inducing virus, similar to the “Rage Virus” depicted in 28 Weeks Later, offer a terrifying glimpse into societal collapse and the primal instincts unleashed in the face of survival. These narratives often explore themes of government control, quarantine breaches, and the devastating consequences of unchecked epidemics, presented through intense action sequences and visceral depictions of violence.
The subgenres popularity stems from its ability to tap into primal fears about pandemics and societal breakdown. The fast-paced action and visceral horror provide thrilling escapism, while the underlying social commentary can offer thought-provoking explorations of human nature under duress. From George A. Romeros seminal zombie films, which established many of the tropes, to more contemporary interpretations, this type of film provides a canvas for examining anxieties about the fragility of civilization and the potential for chaos.
