Unveiling Ancient Mythological References in Zack Snyder's ‘Army of the Dead’

American director Zack Snyder has once again taken the film industry by storm with his latest blockbuster, 'Army of the Dead.' Released in 2021, this action-packed horror film showcases a blend of modern cinematography and deep-rooted mythological references. Among these, the connection to Greek mythology is one of the most intriguing elements. This article will explore these ancient mythological references present in the film, particularly focusing on the homages to Zeus and Athena and other aspects of their mythos.

Zeus and the Rise of the Alpha Zombies

The film's central conflict revolves around the rise of 'alpha zombies,' a powerful and rare breed of undead creatures. In Greek mythology, Zeus, the king of gods, symbolizes power and authority. Similarly, the alpha zombies in the film are portrayed as commanding entities, each with its own domain and followers. These zombies can be seen as a manifestation of Zeus' rule over the underworld, a realm known for its dominance and control.

Moreover, the idea of the alpha zombie serving as a bee leader, swarming around and seeking to destroy or enslave others, resonates with the myth of Zeus controlling the skies and the creatures that dwell within. Just as Zeus sends his thunderbolts to terrify and subjugate, the alpha zombies exert a similar dominance over their prey.

Athena and the Casino as the Hub

The casino, a central location in the film, is the epicenter of all activity, serving as a metaphorical space akin to the Tiryns of Greek myth, home to the goddess Athena. In Greek mythology, Athens was named after the goddess Athena for her contributions to the city. Similarly, the casino becomes a haven for survivors, housing both the treasures and challenges of their quest for survival and redemption.

Further, the casino as a hub for the storyline can be interpreted as an allegory for the hub of the city or the center of activities. In Greek myth, Athena is often depicted as the goddess of wisdom and war strategy, making the casino a place where humanity and the undead engage in a battle of wits and strength. Just as Athena provides the strategic resistance against the whims of Zeus, the survivors in the casino employ their wits and strategies to triumph against the alpha zombies.

The Arena and the Mythical Olympus

A notable aspect of the film is the depiction of an arena where the alpha zombies gather for a showdown. Considering that Olympus in Greek mythology represents the home of the gods, one can draw parallels between the scenarios in the film and this sacred space. Olympus was a place where myths and legends flourished, a realm where gods held their disputations and entertainments.

The portrayal of the arena as a battleground, where the alpha zombies clash and vie for supremacy, echoes the mythological concept of competition and struggle among gods. The alpha zombies, like the gods, have a vendetta and assert their dominance. Their struggle is an allegory for the eternal conflict between order and chaos, just as the gods on Olympus maintained a balance between these forces.

The Key Takeaways

Zeus and Athena are not only prominent characters in Greek mythology but also serve as significant inspirations in the film 'Army of the Dead.' The alpha zombies as manifestations of Zeus' power, and the casino as a tribute to Apollo's hub draw distinct parallels to their mythological counterparts. The robust integration of these ancient myths enriches the narrative, offering a deeper understanding of the themes and conflicts presented in the film.

An exploration of these mythological references can enhance viewers' appreciation of the film, providing a profound insight into the cultural and historical richness embedded within modern storytelling. Whether it's the power struggles of gods or the wisdom of a goddess, the film taps into timeless elements that captivate and intrigue audiences.