‘Overlord’ is The Most Underrated WWII Movie Which Doubles as a Zombie Horror

When thinking of D-Day epics, films like ‘Saving Private Ryan’ or ‘Band of Brothers’ typically come to mind. However, 2018’s ‘Overlord’ is a hidden gem that stands toe-to-toe with these classics. Featuring intense action and a gripping plot, ‘Overlord’ distinguishes itself not just as a WWII film but also as an exceptional zombie movie, specifically featuring Nazi zombies. While the concept might remind some of ‘Wolfenstein’ or other media with Nazi zombies, no other film blends these genres as seamlessly.

Set in an alternate 1944, ‘Overlord’ follows Pvt. Boyce (Jovan Adepo) and his unit as they take refuge with a young partisan named Chloe (Mathilde Ollivier) after their plane is shot down. They soon discover that the radio station they were assigned to destroy houses an underground lab conducting bizarre experiments on civilians. 

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Up to this point, the film presents itself as a straightforward WWII narrative. The mood and tone do not hint at the impending twist, making the transition to a horror film feel natural and cohesive, rather than jarring like some genre-bending films.

‘Overlord’ succeeds in maintaining a fine balance between its war and horror elements. Unlike other media mixing Nazis and science fiction, ‘Overlord’ treats its story seriously, avoiding self-aware or tongue-in-cheek tones. This earnest approach helps the film stand out within both the war and zombie genres.

The characters’ relationships are given significant focus, creating emotional depth uncommon in zombie films. The soldiers’ camaraderie and their bond with Chloe are central to the plot, making the audience invested in their fate even before the horror elements fully unfold.

Midway through the film, the story takes a dramatic turn with the introduction of a potential zombie apocalypse. To rescue Chloe’s brother, Paul, the Americans infiltrate a castle with Chloe’s help, encountering the mutated Nazis.

With their superhuman abilities, these zombies present formidable challenges that elevate the tension and stakes significantly. The mix of WWII settings with mad scientist experiments adds a unique dimension to the narrative, making ‘Overlord’ a distinct viewing experience.

The film maintains its authenticity by avoiding clichés and keeping the fictional elements grounded. The final showdown, for example, doesn’t rely on improbable last-minute rescues but ties the story back to reality. The ending, with its believable meta twist, showcases the film’s attention to detail and enhances its credibility.

Despite its violent content, ‘Overlord’ is accessible to fans of both war and zombie genres, offering an impeccable blend of styles. It stands out as a premier example of hybrid genre filmmaking and sets a potential template for future projects.

– Farheen Ali