The Best Fast Moving Zombie Movies

Ranker Film
Updated July 15, 2024 32.2K views 30 items
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For decades zombies chased after brains at a leisurely pace, but in recent years the undead have started running at breakneck speeds. The top fast moving zombie movies feature deadly threats and speedy villains. This is a list of the top fast zombie movies featuring everything from I Am Legend to Resident Evil to Dead Snow.

What movies will you find on this list of the top fast moving zombies films? Fans of retro gore might vote The Return of the Living Dead to the top. This 1985 horror classic is widely believed to be one of the first movies to introduce speedy zombies. Although zombie aficionado George Romero doesn't believe in the fast undead, the 2004 remake of his Dawn of the Dead features fast moving zombies. And not all flicks featuring these speedy monsters are grim – Zombieland is a hilarious project full of super fast zombies. Other good films featured on this top fast zombies movies list include State of Emergency, 28 Days Later, and Fast Zombies with Guns.

Do you have a favorite fast zombie movie? Give the best films a thumbs up and share some of your favorite scenes in the comments section.

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Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Fast Moving Zombie Movies
  • 28 Days Later
    1
    Cillian Murphy, Noah Huntley, Naomie Harris
    261 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Danny Boyle

    28 Days Later, directed by the inimitable Danny Boyle, delivers a chillingly authentic tale of apocalyptic survival that unleashes an otherworldly breed of infected sprinters upon a group of survivors, which includes the unforgettable Jim, played by the talented Cillian Murphy. As the gut-wrenching narrative unfolds through deserted London streets, the film reaps a harvest of accolades, including two BAFTA awards for cinematography and production design. Further solidifying its status as an iconic entry in the horror genre, the film also receives rave reviews for its relentless, blood-splattered take on the undead.

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  • Train to Busan
    2
    Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi, Ma Dong-seok
    170 votes
    • Released: 2016
    • Directed by: Yeon Sang-ho

    Train to Busan, a South Korean masterpiece directed by Yeon Sang-ho, wields a razor-sharp narrative that hurls its passengers, notably the loving father Seok-woo (Gong Yoo) and his daughter Soo-an, straight into the gnashing jaws of unnervingly agile undead. Combining exceptional storytelling with white-knuckle suspense, the film has not only cemented its status as an instant classic but also garnered numerous awards, including the Blue Dragon for Best Film. As the infected sprint through the speeding train, the brilliance of the film's heart, soul, and breakneck pacing become abundantly clear.

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  • Dawn of the Dead
    3
    David Emge, Ken Foree, Gaylen Ross
    210 votes
    • Released: 1978
    • Directed by: George A. Romero

    Dawn of the Dead, the 1978 masterpiece helmed by the legendary George A. Romero, serves as a paragon of the zombie genre by unleashing an insatiable army of accelerated undead upon a group of survivors that includes the steadfast Fran, played by Gaylen Ross, and the tenacious Peter, skillfully portrayed by Ken Foree. The film, punctuated by its searing social commentary amid the backdrop of a consumerist culture-infused shopping mall, captivated audiences and critics alike, earning accolades such as the prestigious Saturn Award for Best Make-Up. Through its innovative approach to the frighteningly agile zombie, Dawn of the Dead continues to hold an esteemed position within the pantheon of horror cinema and influence subsequent generations of filmmakers.

  • 28 Weeks Later
    4
    Robert Carlyle, Rose Byrne, Jeremy Renner
    220 votes
    • Released: 2007
    • Directed by: Juan Carlos Fresnadillo

    28 Weeks Later, helmed by director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, picks up where its predecessor left off, unraveling a heart-pumping story of resurgence amid a supposedly safe, militarized London prepared to repel the fast and ferocious infected. The stellar cast, headed by Robert Carlyle as Don and Rose Byrne as Scarlet, is lauded for their gripping performances in this relentless, tension-filled horror film. Inundated with awards, including the Empire Award for Best Horror, 28 Weeks Later has rightly earned its place in the pantheon of zombie classics.

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  • Zombieland
    5
    Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone
    212 votes
    • Released: 2009
    • Directed by: Ruben Fleischer

    Zombieland, a wickedly delightful foray into the world of swift undead terror, tracks the misadventures of Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg), Wichita (Emma Stone), Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) as they slice, shoot, and smirk their way across a post-apocalyptic wasteland. Despite the blistering speed of its decaying antagonists, humor remains the dominant force, establishing Zombieland as a fan-favorite cult hit. Fueled by its irreverent wit and star-studded cast, the film also captivates the critical sphere, earning the Scream Award for Best Ensemble, and ultimately leading to a sequel a decade later.

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  • World War Z
    6
    Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, James Badge Dale
    259 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Marc Forster

    World War Z, inspired by Max Brooks' best-selling novel, follows the harrowing journey of former United Nations investigator Gerry Lane, portrayed by the magnetic Brad Pitt, as he scrambles across the globe to halt the catastrophic outbreak of sprinting, vicious zombies. The film's blockbuster success lies not only in its viscerally captivating action sequences but also in its capacity to resonate on a broader, more human scale. Among its accolades, World War Z boasts a Saturn Award for Best Thriller Film, solidifying its indelible mark on the world of high-stakes, fast-paced undead storytelling.

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  • I Am Legend
    7
    Will Smith, Alice Braga, Dash Mihok
    197 votes
    • Released: 2007
    • Directed by: Francis Lawrence

    I Am Legend, starring the instantly likable Will Smith as Dr. Robert Neville, explores the profound isolation and determination of the last man standing in a desolate, vampiric-zombie-infested New York City. Esteemed for its innovative fast-moving creatures and heart-wrenching storyline of love, loss, and humanity, the film pays homage to the Richard Matheson novel from which it is derived. Reaping accolades including the Saturn Award for Best Actor, I Am Legend stands tall as an indispensable offering in the pantheon of agile zombie thrillers.

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  • REC
    8
    Manuela Velasco, Ferran Terraza, Jorge-Yamam Serrano
    120 votes
    • Released: 2007
    • Directed by: Jaume Balagueró, Paco Plaza

    REC, a Spanish found-footage horror film directed by Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza, plunges audiences into the claustrophobia-inducing nightmare of reporter Ángela Vidal (Manuela Velasco), who unwittingly encounters a vicious, sprinting strain of undead creatures. As the tension escalates and the body count rises, the film's unique perspective breathes new life into the zombie genre, launching REC into a stratosphere of international acclaim. With ample awards under its belt, including the Goya Award for Best New Actress, this chilling exercise in terror remains a touchstone for found-footage aficionados around the globe.

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  • Resident Evil
    9
    Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, Eric Mabius
    171 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Paul W.S. Anderson

    Resident Evil, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, unspools an explosive narrative that pits Alice, played by the indomitable Milla Jovovich, against a relentless horde of Umbrella Corporation's swift and deadly undead. Straddling the realms of horror and action, the film cements its position as a fan-favorite by deftly balancing tension, character development, and breathtaking stunts featuring fleet-footed flesh-eaters. As the brawn and brains behind one of the most successful film franchises, Resident Evil triumphs with several award nominations, including a Saturn Award, and persistently captivates audiences with its horrifyingly innovative, fast zombies.

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  • Army of the Dead
    10

    Army of the Dead

    Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell, Omari Hardwick
    85 votes
    • Released: 2021
    • Directed by: Zack Snyder

    Army of the Dead, directed by the visionary Zack Snyder, showcases an adrenaline-infused nightmare as an elite group of mercenaries led by the character Scott Ward, portrayed by the charismatic Dave Bautista, ventures into a quarantined Las Vegas teeming with ravenous, sprinting zombies. As the stakes and intensity rise, this action-packed drama garners praise for its thrilling set pieces, captivating storyline, and heart-wrenching moments. Both a critical and commercial success, Army of the Dead continues to enthrall zombie enthusiasts and general audiences alike.

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  • The Return of the Living Dead
    11
    Clu Gulager, James Karen, Don Calfa
    123 votes
    • Released: 1985
    • Directed by: Dan O'Bannon

    The Return of the Living Dead, an iconic fusion of gore and dark humor directed by Dan O'Bannon, unleashes a horde of ravenous, quick-witted walking dead upon a ragtag group of survivors led by the spunky Freddy (Thom Mathews) and the enigmatic Ernie (Don Calfa). This distinctive take on the zombie genre, which captivates audiences and critics alike with its biting satire and relentless pace, boasts a Saturn Award nomination for Best Horror Film. As a quintessential cult classic, The Return of the Living Dead leaves an indelible mark within the world of fast-zombie cinema.

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  • Quarantine
    12
    Jennifer Carpenter, Steve Harris, Jay Hernandez
    128 votes
    • Released: 2008
    • Directed by: John Erick Dowdle

    Quarantine, the American adaptation of the Spanish horror film REC, envelopes viewers in a visceral found-footage nightmare as reporter Angela, portrayed by the adept Jennifer Carpenter, stumbles into a terrifying labyrinth inhabited by swift, bloodthirsty undead. The film garners praise for its engrossing storytelling, tension, and relentless atmosphere, building on the success and terror of its original counterpart. With its heart-stopping pace and formidable cast, Quarantine solidifies its place within the pantheon of exemplary fast-zombie thrillers.

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  • Zombieland: Double Tap
    13
    Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone
    28 votes
    • Released: 2019
    • Directed by: Ruben Fleischer

    Zombieland: Double Tap, director Ruben Fleischer's much-anticipated sequel to the beloved Zombieland, takes our unlikely heroes Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg), Wichita (Emma Stone), Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) on a wild ride through an America teeming with even faster, more menacing undead. With wicked humor, heartwarming character development, and high-stakes action, the film captures the spirit of its predecessor while introducing memorable newcomers, such as Zoey Deutch's scene-stealing Madison. As an entertaining continuation of a modern cult classic, Zombieland: Double Tap confirms its standing among the greats of swift-zombie cinema.

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  • The Girl With All The Gifts
    14
    Gemma Arterton, Glenn Close, Paddy Considine
    65 votes
    • Released: 2016
    • Directed by: Colm McCarthy

    The Girl With All The Gifts, directed by Colm McCarthy, reinvents the zombie genre with a spellbinding exploration of human/mutant hybrids, like the highly intelligent Melanie (played by the captivating Sennia Nanua) who possesses lightning-fast reflexes and an insatiable hunger for flesh. Joining forces with a resourceful teacher (Gemma Arterton) and a pragmatic scientist (Glenn Close), Melanie treks through a dangerous, infected-laden world in this gripping character-driven story. With its unique blend of sci-fi, horror, and drama, The Girl With All The Gifts captivates viewers and garners critical praise, securing its place as a fresh and innovative entry within the fast-zombie film canon.

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  • The Descent
    15
    Shauna Macdonald, Natalie Mendoza, Alex Reid
    103 votes
    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Neil Marshall

    Though not strictly focused on zombies, The Descent, a masterful piece of horror cinema directed by Neil Marshall, plunges its audience into the claustrophobic depths of an uncharted cave system that conceals ferociously agile, subterranean creatures – the Crawlers. Led by the resilient Sarah (Shauna Macdonald), the all-female ensemble navigates treacherous terrain, united in the face of a relentless, nightmarish enemy. Accolades such as the British Independent Film Award (BIFA) for Best Director confirm The Descent's position as a staple among thrilling creature features, often compared to fast-zombie horror films for its atmosphere and pacing.

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  • Night of the Comet
    16
    Robert Beltran, Catherine Mary Stewart, Kelli Maroney
    144 votes
    • Released: 1984
    • Directed by: Thom Eberhardt

    Night of the Comet, helmed by director Thom Eberhardt, brings a witty, offbeat sensibility to the fast-zombie genre as Regina (Catherine Mary Stewart) and Samantha (Kelli Maroney), two resourceful sisters, navigate a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by comet-exposed, fleet-footed undead. The film, imbued with a blend of horror and humor, illustrates a masterful understanding of cinematic balance and audience engagement. As a beloved cult classic, Night of the Comet earns a prominent place in the hearts of zombie enthusiasts and continues to influence next-generation filmmakers.

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  • Return of the Living Dead Part II
    17
    James Karen, Thom Mathews, Michael Kenworthy
    88 votes
    • Released: 1988
    • Directed by: Ken Wiederhorn

    Return of the Living Dead Part II, Ken Wiederhorn's sequel to the cult classic, introduces a fresh set of characters, including Jesse Wilson (Michael Kenworthy) and Ed Mathews (Hanala Sagal), who find themselves at the center of another outbreak of lightning-quick undead. In the spirit of the original, the film combines chills and laughs, resulting in a thrilling piece of entertainment evoking the fast-zombie genre's signature mix of horror and humor. While not earning as many awards as its predecessor, Return of the Living Dead Part II still holds a special place in the hearts and minds of zombie movie enthusiasts.

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  • Dead Snow
    18
    Vegar Hoel, Stig Frode Henriksen, Charlotte Frogner
    83 votes
    • Released: 2009
    • Directed by: Tommy Wirkola

    Dead Snow, a one-of-a-kind blend of horror and comedy by Norwegian director Tommy Wirkola, transports its viewers to the snowy peaks of Norway, where a group of carefree friends stumbles upon a horde of fiendishly fast, undead Nazi soldiers. The jaw-dropping combination of thrilling and brutal action sequences with the macabre humor of reanimated soldiers cements the film's status as a cult sensation. Praised by critics and audiences alike, Dead Snow retains a devoted following within the fast-zombie subgenre.

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  • Day of the Dead
    19
    Ving Rhames, Mena Suvari, Nick Cannon
    85 votes
    • Released: 2008
    • Directed by: Steve Miner

    Day of the Dead, directed by Steve Miner, offers a modern reimagining of George A. Romero's classic with a chilling twist, as the relentless and spry undead, created by a manmade virus, besiege a small town where the tenacious Captain Rhodes, played by Ving Rhames, and the resourceful nurse Sarah (Mena Suvari), are determined to survive. Despite differing from the original film, this fast-paced adaptation attracts audiences with its fresh perspective on the zombie menace and high-stakes action. The mainstream appeal and notable cast, combined with the terrifyingly rapid ghouls, make Day of the Dead a memorable entry into the pantheon of fast-zombie films.

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  • Dead Alive
    20
    Timothy Balme, Diana Peñalver, Elizabeth Moody
    72 votes
    • Released: 1992
    • Directed by: Peter Jackson

    Dead Alive, directed by the visionary Peter Jackson, entices viewers with a gleefully gruesome tale of Lionel Cosgrove (Timothy Balme), a hapless young man, whose life spirals into chaos when his overbearing mother (Elizabeth Moody) becomes infected with a bizarrely aggressive virus that transforms her and others into voracious, high-speed zombies. With its striking combination of humor, gore, and heart, Jackson's low-budget, high-spirited film garners critical acclaim while remaining a firm favorite among zombie enthusiasts. Dead Alive, much like its fleet-footed undead antagonists, refuses to be forgotten, securing a lasting legacy as a seminal entry within the fast-zombie genre.

  • Return of the Living Dead 3
    21
    Melinda Clarke, Sarah Douglas, Pia Reyes
    61 votes
    • Released: 1993
    • Directed by: Brian Yuzna

    Return of the Living Dead 3, the sequel to the beloved cult classics directed by Brian Yuzna, plunges viewers into a bone-chilling nightmare as Curt Reynolds, played by J. Trevor Edmond, and his reanimated girlfriend Julie (Melinda Clarke) grapple with the effects of the deadly Trioxin chemical that created a legion of swift, voracious undead. This thrill-laden horror flick, laden with visceral effects and unsettling ambiance, wins over fans and critics alike. As an unsettling, sorrowful exploration of love and disintegration, Return of the Living Dead 3 leaves an indelible mark on the fast-zombie film genre.

  • The Night Eats the World, an evocative French-language film directed by Dominique Rocher, immerses the audience in the life of Sam, played by the introspective Anders Danielsen Lie, as he navigates the haunting desolation of a Paris overrun with agile, insatiable undead. Setting the stage for a fresh take on fast-zombie horror, the film accelerates both its threat and tension. Applauded for its innovative approach to the genre and its striking cinematography, The Night Eats the World earns a prestigious spot within the pantheon of speedy-zombie cinema.

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  • Cockneys vs Zombies
    23
    Michelle Ryan, Georgia King, Harry Treadaway
    32 votes
    • Released: 2012
    • Directed by: Matthias Hoene

    Cockneys vs Zombies, directed by Matthias Hoene, offers a wildly entertaining blend of British humor and relentless, nimble undead in the heart of East London. The protagonists, Ray Macguire (Rasmus Hardiker) and his gang of would-be bank robbers, face an escalating onslaught of carnivorous ghouls, creating an irresistibly charming – and often hilarious – genre mash-up. The film's sizable cult following, in part due to its refreshing perspective on the fast-zombie trope, highlights the wide-ranging appeal and enduring popularity of Cockneys vs Zombies.

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  • The Day
    24
    Shannyn Sossamon, Dominic Monaghan, Shawn Ashmore
    48 votes
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Doug Aarniokoski

    The Day, set in a post-apocalyptic world and directed by Douglas Aarniokoski, presents a tightly-knit group of survivors, including the battle-hardened Rick (Dominic Monaghan) and coldly efficient Mary (Ashley Bell), as they fend off hordes of hungry, ferocious human-turned predators in a fight for their lives. Rendering the horror genre with a unique, dystopian twist, this intense and foreboding thriller plunges audiences into the thralls of relentless suspense. Generating considerable buzz among fans of survivalist themes and fast-zombie movies, The Day solidifies its place in the darker and more fast-paced realms of horror cinema.

  • Juan of the Dead
    25
    Andrea Duro, Luis Alberto García, Blanca Rosa Blanco
    49 votes
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Alejandro Brugués

    Juan of the Dead, a Cuban horror-comedy by Alejandro Brugués, unleashes a tide of rapid and ravenous zombies upon the island nation while offering a socio-political critique of Cuban society, embodied by the charming, titular character, portrayed with gusto by Alexis Díaz de Villegas. A hit with audiences and critics alike, the film collects numerous accolades, including a Goya Award nomination for Best Spanish Language Foreign Film. Juan of the Dead's entrancing blend of humor, terror, and cultural insight establishes an enduring presence among fast-zombie aficionados.

  • Peninsula
    26
    Gang Dong-won, Lee Jung-hyun, Lee Re
    14 votes
    • Released: 2020
    • Directed by: Yeon Sang-ho

    Peninsula, a riveting sequel to the seminal Train to Busan directed by Yeon Sang-ho, transports audiences to a desolate, post-apocalyptic Korea dominated by agile, insatiable undead, where former Marine Captain Jung-seok (Gang Dong-won) embarks on a treacherous mission to retrieve vital cargo. The film builds upon its predecessor's heart, emotion, and relentless action, while introducing a new cast of intriguing characters and a more expansive setting. Garnering both critical acclaim and substantial box-office success, Peninsula secures its place as a worthy addition to the ever-growing world of fast-zombie cinema.

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  • Boy Eats Girl
    27
    Samantha Mumba, David Leon, Tadhg Murphy
    27 votes
    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Stephen Bradley

    Boy Eats Girl, directed by Stephen Bradley, provides a refreshing take on the zombie genre with its blend of teen-centered drama, humor, and swift, flesh-hungry undead. As protagonist Nathan (David Leon) stumbles through the chaos of heartbreak, friendship, and his newfound predilection for human flesh, critics and audiences appreciate the film's wit, action, and unique mixing of genres. Although not the recipient of significant awards, Boy Eats Girl has captured the attention and imagination of fast-zombie fans and casual moviegoers alike.

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  • Devil's Playground
    28
    Danny Dyer, Jaime Murray, MyAnna Buring
    31 votes
    • Released: 2010
    • Directed by: Mark McQueen

    Devil's Playground, helmed by director Mark McQueen, showcases a bleak, virus-ravaged London where the infected – imbued with striking speed and ferocity – pursue the unyielding Cole, portrayed by Craig Fairbrass, and his group of survivors. This intense, action-packed horror film captivates its audience with its heart-pounding pace, dynamic characters and intricately choreographed combat sequences.  As a unique and gripping addition to the swift-zombie genre, Devil's Playground leaves an indelible impression on its viewers.

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  • State of Emergency
    29
    Andrew Stahl, Tori White, Scott Lilly
    82 votes
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Turner Clay

    State of Emergency, a survival thriller helmed by Turner Clay, traps its resilient protagonist Jim (Jay Hayden) in a rural town overrun by swift-moving undead after a mysterious explosion unleashes pandemonium. Fueled by its relatable characters, escalating tension, and visceral horror, the film grips audiences with its cinematic prowess. State of Emergency's pulse-pounding pace and genuine terror cement its position as a contemporary addition to the fast-zombie subgenre.

  • Fast Zombies with Guns
    30

    Fast Zombies with Guns

    Tony Swansey, Sofiya Smirnova, Ken Svitak
    38 votes
    • Released: 2009
    • Directed by: Bennie Woodell

    Fast Zombies with Guns, an ultra-low-budget flick directed by Bennie Woodell, injects a darkly humorous twist into the fast-zombie genre by arming its rapidly-swarming undead with firearms as a group of unsuspecting friends find themselves trapped in a nightmarish scenario. With tongue firmly in cheek, the film embraces its audacious concept and capitalizes on the sheer absurdity of its premise. Fast Zombies with Guns captures the imagination of bloodthirsty and adventurous cinema fans, carving out a niche within the vast landscape of swift-zombie stories.

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