Post-apocalyptic horror films featuring a rapidly spreading viral pandemic that transforms humans into aggressive, rage-filled creatures are a distinct subgenre. These films often depict the struggle for survival in a collapsed society, exploring themes of societal breakdown, human resilience, and the thin line between civilization and savagery. A prime example showcases a protagonist awakening from a coma to find London deserted and overrun by infected individuals driven by primal instinct.
Such narratives resonate with audiences due to their exploration of primal fears related to disease, societal collapse, and the fragility of human existence. They provide a platform for examining human behavior under extreme duress, exploring the ethical dilemmas and difficult choices individuals face when societal structures crumble. The emergence of this subgenre often reflects contemporary anxieties and societal concerns, serving as a cultural barometer of societal fears and uncertainties.