Zombies (1978) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
The ending of Zombies (2018) is a heartwarming resolution to the film's central conflict between zombies and humans in the fictional town of Seabrook. After a series of misunderstandings and prejudices, the human cheerleader Addison and zombie football player Zed lead their communities toward unity. The climax occurs during the big football game and cheerleading championship, where Zed reveals his true zombie identity to the world, challenging stereotypes. Addison stands by him, and their bravery inspires both groups to embrace coexistence. The film concludes with zombies and humans celebrating together, symbolizing hope for a future where differences are celebrated rather than feared.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The ending of Zombies is a culmination of the film's themes of acceptance, unity, and breaking down societal barriers. Throughout the movie, zombies (who are green-haired, slightly decayed, but otherwise harmless) are segregated from humans in Seabrook due to lingering fears from a zombie outbreak decades earlier. The humans wear protective bracelets that emit a force field, while zombies are required to wear "z-bands" to suppress their zombie urges. The tension between the two groups is palpable, especially when zombies are allowed to attend Seabrook High School for the first time. The final act resolves this tension through a series of bold actions by the protagonists, Zed and Addison.
The climax occurs during the championship football game and cheerleading competition, where Zed, the star zombie football player, removes his z-band mid-game, revealing his true nature to the entire town. This moment is pivotal because it forces the humans to confront their prejudices head-on. Addison, a human cheerleader who has been secretly hiding her own differences (her silver hair, which she covers with a wig), also removes her wig in solidarity. Their actions shock the crowd, but instead of causing chaos, it sparks a moment of realization. The humans see that zombies are not monsters, and Addison's bravery in embracing her uniqueness further drives home the message of self-acceptance.
The resolution is marked by the town's gradual shift in attitude. The football team, initially resistant to playing alongside zombies, begins to support Zed. The cheerleaders, led by Addison, perform a routine that blends human and zombie styles, symbolizing harmony. The film's final scenes show zombies and humans dancing together at the homecoming dance, their differences no longer a source of division but of celebration. The mayor, who had been a vocal opponent of zombie integration, is shown reluctantly accepting the new reality, hinting at systemic change. The upbeat musical number "We Own the Night" underscores the theme of unity, leaving audiences with a sense of optimism.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Answers
- Will the zombies and humans maintain their newfound unity?
- Possible Answer: The ending suggests a lasting change, but real-world parallels imply that systemic prejudice doesn't disappear overnight. Future conflicts could arise, but the foundation for coexistence is now in place.
- What happens to the z-bands and force field bracelets?
- Possible Answer: The film implies these devices will become obsolete as trust grows, but their removal could lead to new challenges, like managing zombie urges without suppression.
- How does Addison's family react to her relationship with Zed?
- Possible Answer: Her parents seem supportive by the end, but their initial reluctance hints that some personal biases may take longer to overcome.
- What role does the mayor play in the future?
- Possible Answer: Her acceptance seems grudging, suggesting she may resist further integration efforts behind the scenes.
Personal Opinion on the Ending & Film
The ending of Zombies is satisfying because it delivers on its promise of inclusivity and hope. While the plot is predictable, the execution-through vibrant musical numbers and charismatic performances-makes the message resonate. The film's strength lies in its allegory for real-world discrimination, using zombies as a stand-in for any marginalized group. However, the resolution is somewhat idealized, glossing over the complexities of dismantling systemic prejudice. The sudden shift in the townspeople's attitudes feels rushed, but this is forgivable in a family-friendly musical. Overall, Zombies succeeds as an entertaining, feel-good story with a meaningful takeaway about embracing differences. The ending leaves viewers with a sense of joy and the belief that change is possible, even in the face of deep-seated fear.
The film's lasting impact is its emphasis on individuality and courage. Addison and Zed's relationship is the emotional core, and their willingness to be vulnerable - Zed by revealing his true self, Addison by embracing her uniqueness-is inspiring. The ending doesn't just wrap up the story; it invites the audience to reflect on their own biases and the power of solidarity. While Zombies may not delve deeply into the darker aspects of its premise, its upbeat conclusion ensures it remains a uplifting watch for all ages.