Why in Almost Every Apocalyptic/Zombie Movie the Military, UN, and WHO are Seen as Useless or Corrupt

As a fan of apocalypse and zombie films, I often find myself losing interest when military and government figures become central characters. I much prefer stories that focus on ordinary people and survivors. In movies like Night of the Living Dead 1989, the absence of military types and the focus on small, isolated groups of survivors adds depth and authenticity to the storytelling. To remove the military from the equation, filmmakers often find ways to justify their ineffectiveness or outright corruption. This approach serves several thematic and narrative purposes, enhancing the emotional impact and narrative depth of the story.

Critique of Authority

Filmmakers often depict institutions such as the military, United Nations (UN), and World Health Organization (WHO) as symbols of authority and order. However, by showing them as ineffective or malevolent, they critique the failure of these organizations to protect society during times of crisis. This reflects a common distrust in authority figures and institutions, especially in today's increasingly polarized world. This portrayal serves to question the reliability of these institutions and invites viewers to think critically about the roles of government and international bodies in our lives.

Survival Themes

In apocalyptic narratives, the focus typically shifts from organized society to the struggles of individual or small groups of survivors. This shift emphasizes personal resilience and the human spirit in the face of disaster. By sidelining large organizations, such as the UN or WHO, the story highlights the struggles and struggles of everyday people. This approach makes the story more relatable and engaging, as it focuses on the unpredictable and chaotic nature of survival in a post-apocalyptic world.

Dramatic Tension

The collapse of established order creates a more dramatic and unpredictable environment, heightening tension for the audience. If the military or government were portrayed as effective, the conflict could be resolved too quickly, taking away the element of suspense and drama. By showcasing the failures of these institutions, filmmakers create a chaotic and unpredictable world that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. This approach creates a more engaging and thrilling viewing experience.

Moral Ambiguity

The portrayal of these organizations as evil or corrupt introduces moral complexity to the story. It raises important questions about the ethics of power and the potential for abuse in desperate situations. This exploration of moral ambiguity can lead to richer storytelling, as viewers are invited to consider the nuanced aspects of power and sacrifice. This approach adds depth to the narrative, making it more thought-provoking and resonant with audiences.

Cinematic Archetypes

Portrayals of military, UN, and WHO organizations in apocalyptic and zombie movies have become archetypal in the genre. Audiences have come to expect certain tropes, and filmmakers often lean into these conventions to meet viewer expectations. This familiarity can create a sense of comfort and engagement for viewers, as they can easily anticipate and relate to the story's progression. However, it also allows filmmakers to subvert these expectations and create surprising and original narratives.

Real-World Parallels

Many stories draw on real-world criticisms of military interventions, international organizations, and public health responses, especially during crises. These real-world parallels can resonate with audiences who have witnessed or learned about failures in these areas. Filmmakers often use these portrayals to comment on current events and societal issues, adding layers of meaning and relevance to the story. This approach can make the narrative more relevant and engaging, as viewers can draw connections between the fictional world and their own experiences.

In conclusion, the portrayal of military, UN, and WHO organizations in apocalyptic and zombie movies serves multiple purposes. It critiques authority, highlights survival themes, creates dramatic tension, explores moral ambiguity, and leverages cinematic archetypes while drawing on real-world parallels. These elements combine to create a rich and engaging narrative that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.