Is Coronavirus Reminding You of Typical Zombie Movies?

As the world grapples with the unprecedented spread of the coronavirus, many find similarities to the typical scenarios depicted in zombie movies. The eerie quiet, the isolation, and the unrelenting gloom have echoes of what we've seen in films like I Am Legend, Contagion, and World War Z. These movies, while not reflecting the exact reality, may mirror the extreme and dire situations that the virus might bring.

Similarities to Zombie Movies

I Am Legend (2007): This movie, starring Will Smith, focuses on one survivor in a world overrun by vampires. The idea of isolation and the world turning against the infected resonates with our current situation. This film might be the closest to the actual situation as it depicts a population ravaged by an uncontrollable contagion, much like the coronavirus spreading globally.

Contagion (2011): Directed by Steven Soderbergh, this movie is a near-perfect dramatization of a viral outbreak. It captures the fear, panic, and the rapid spread through major cities. The movie closely mirrors the way people are acting now, from wearing masks to avoiding large gatherings. It also highlights the economic impact that such a crisis can have on a global level. This isn't a zombie movie, but it's a powerful reminder of how our society might react to a real pandemic.

World War Z (2013): Based on Max Brooks' novel, this film provides a dynamic and action-packed narrative, showcasing the resilience of humanity in the face of extraordinary challenges. The storyline revolves around answering the question, Are we alone? The movie affirms that people can find ways to stay motivated and fight through even the worst odds, a pertinent message as the world faces the current pandemic.

Personal Reflections

Me and my colleague often discuss how the coronavirus is reminiscent of the T-virus in Resident Evil, or other movies with a virus causing an apocalyptic scenario. We sometimes joke about it, but as it spread across the globe and the World Health Organization (WHO) deemed it a pandemic, we all started to take it seriously. People were in a state of alarm, reflecting on how a virus could turn the world upside down.

The film It Comes at Night (2017) is perhaps the closest to the crisis we are facing today. Unlike the typical zombie films, this movie does not explicitly mention a virus but portrays a situation where a mysterious illness is spreading, likely through physical contact. The film excellently captures the essence of an apocalypse, with the emphasis on isolation, fear, and survival. It also highlights the dehumanizing aspects of quarantine and the ultimate realization of mortality.

The Media and Its Narrative

Indeed, the coronavirus pandemic has evoked a stark comparison with zombie movies. The media, often dominated by certain political ideologies, plays a significant role in shaping public opinion. Some argue that news outlets, particularly those with Democratic leanings, are using the pandemic to try to undermine President Trump's administration. It is a reflection of the complex relationship between politics and public health, where fear and misinformation can spread just as rapidly as the virus itself.

Scriptwriters for horror and zombie films, known for their ability to craft terrifying narratives, may be the same individuals shaping narratives in the media. They are not focused on scientific accuracy but on creating a sense of dread and uncertainty. While it is understandable to highlight the severity of the situation, the focus on the so-called relatively low mortality flu pandemic as a means to blame a political figure is more about sensationalism than truth.

According to the latest data, as of the time this article was written, out of over 100,000 total cases worldwide, approximately 3,400 deaths have been reported, the majority of whom were elderly or already had health issues. This data indicates that if you contract the virus and take proper precautions, such as treating a regular flu, your chances of survival are quite high—around 96% for those under the age of 65 and in good health. If symptoms worsen, seeking medical attention is crucial.

Conclusion

The parallels between the coronavirus and typical zombie movies are more than coincidental. They serve as a stark reminder of the human condition in the face of overwhelming adversity. Staying informed, staying safe, and maintaining a rational perspective are crucial in navigating the current crisis.

References

1. IMDb, I Am Legend (2007) - 2. IMDb, Contagion (2011) - 3. IMDb, World War Z (2013) - 4. IMDb, It Comes at Night (2017) - 5. World Health Organization (WHO) -