Fans of horror cinema have until July 31 to watch Zack Snyder’s Dawn of the Dead on Netflix, as the film will be removed from the streaming platform after that date. This remake of George A. Romero’s iconic zombie movie was released in 2004 and marked a significant moment for both Snyder and James Gunn, who wrote the script and directed the film respectively.
The movie not only revived a classic horror story but also helped launch the careers of two filmmakers now prominent in the entertainment industry, especially within the DC Universe. Dawn of the Dead became a box office success, earning over $100 million worldwide from a $26 million budget, and was well received by critics with a 77% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The Collaboration That Shaped Two Filmmakers’ Futures
Dawn of the Dead stands out as an early example of how Zack Snyder and James Gunn’s creative talents merged. Snyder’s directorial debut showcased his ability to blend style with suspense, a skill he later applied to films like 300 and Watchmen. Meanwhile, Gunn’s script infused the movie with a blend of humor and violence, helping him break away from low-budget projects to become a well-known filmmaker.
This partnership was one of the first intersections in their careers before both moved on to take pivotal roles in shaping different eras of the DC Universe. Snyder’s impactful Snyderverse laid groundwork that Gunn is now building upon with his own vision for the DCU, having recently directed the new Superman movie following Snyder’s Man of Steel.
Why Dawn of the Dead Remains Worth Watching
For viewers unfamiliar with this 2004 remake, Dawn of the Dead offers a thrilling and fresh take on Romero’s original story, balancing faithful homage with new elements. The film adapts fast-moving zombies, reminiscent of 28 Days Later, to heighten the horror and intensity, while delivering gore consistent with early 2000s horror trends.
The film is especially notable as a showcase of Snyder’s stylish direction and Gunn’s distinctive narrative voice, blending tension and comic relief. Watching the movie now provides insight into the early creative impulses that shaped their later successes, making it a valuable experience for fans of both horror and superhero genres.
This makes the upcoming removal from Netflix a significant moment for those who want to explore or revisit what launched two major filmmakers’ careers. It also fuels optimism for future collaborations between Snyder and Gunn, given their shared history and friendship despite their different artistic approaches.
Recognizing the Cast and Contributions Behind the Film
Dawn of the Dead features performances from actors such as Sarah Polley and Ving Rhames, who contributed to the film’s compelling portrayals amid the chaos of the zombie outbreak. Their roles helped ground the story and add to its emotional engagement, complementing the strong directorial and writing efforts from Snyder and Gunn.
As one of the memorable horror remakes of the early 2000s, the film remains a testament to the talent of everyone involved and their ability to reimagine a classic with new energy and impact.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Zack Snyder leave?
A. Making the original movie was tough, and the script often changed a lot. In May 2017, Snyder left during post-production because his daughter passed away. Joss Whedon was brought in to finish the film, although he wasn’t credited as an additional director.
