Do Unreal Lifeforms Ever Fight Other Unreal Lifeforms?

It's a fascinating question: do zombies and other unreal creatures fight among themselves?

The Common Received Wisdom

In pop culture, particularly in movies, video games, and television shows, zombies are typically portrayed as mindless creatures driven by an unquenchable hunger for human flesh. They show little to no awareness of their surroundings or each other. This is the general narrative for zombies, making them seem almost incapable of conflict with their own kind.

Exceptions to this rule can be found in certain narratives, where different types of zombies exhibit unique behaviors. However, these scenarios are not the norm in the broader zombie genre. Let's explore why and look at some specific examples.

Different Types of Unreal Creatures

Unreal lifeforms, such as zombies, can come in various forms with different origins, behaviors, and purposes. These variations can lead to different outcomes in their interactions with each other.

Classification of Zombies

In the movie World War Z, for instance, zombies are divided into categories that serve different purposes. An effective zombie, for example, would not target the terminally ill or the elderly, as they would be ineffective carriers. These zombies focus on spreading their infection to the healthiest individuals possible to maintain their population and spread.

Necromorphs from the Dark Spots Series

In the Dark Spots series, the necromorphs have a very specific goal - to amass biomass. These creatures function primarily by turning their targets into more of their own kind. Once their purpose is fulfilled, they no longer actively pursue their targets. This unique behavior sets them apart from the more traditional zombies.

The Warm Bodies Undead

Perhaps one of the more striking examples of zombies fighting each other comes from the film Warm Bodies. Unlike the typical passivity of zombies, the characters in this movie are divided into those who are still highly evolved, such as R, and those who have reverted to a more primitive state, like some of the early zombies they encounter. This dynamic allows for a scenario where these undead beings can interact and even engage in conflict. The film explores this concept in a unique and engaging way.

Real-Life Animal Behavior as a Model

The behavior of real-life predatory creatures can offer some insights into how zombies might behave. Carnivores, for example, typically hunt and attack living prey and would not eat a dead animal they did not kill. A lion, for instance, would hunt and avoid a carcass unless it was starving. Similarly, in the context of zombies, they would prefer to go after living human targets.

Media Specifics

While zombies and other unreal lifeforms are generally portrayed as mindless, there are specific instances where their interactions with each other become more complex. These scenarios can offer a richer and more engaging narrative, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of the characters and their world.

Movie makers have the unique opportunity to push these narratives in new and exciting directions. By exploring unconventional scenarios and character motivations, they can create more dynamic and interesting stories. For instance, the Warm Bodies movie introduced a new layer of complexity and conflict among zombies, making the genre more intriguing and relatable.

Conclusion

In summary, while zombies and other unreal lifeforms are mostly portrayed as passive subjects, there are exceptions and specific scenarios that can lead to conflict and interaction. These rare instances can add depth and complexity to the narrative, making the genre more engaging for audiences.

It's clear that the creative potential in this area is vast. If movie makers ever delve into these ideas further, we could see some truly innovative and captivating stories. So, to all the filmmakers out there - keep pushing boundaries and exploring the fascinating world of unreal lifeforms!