Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gory, Spanish zombie action-horror promotes teamwork.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End
What's the Story?
In APOCALYPSE Z: THE BEGINNING OF THE END, when a virus spreads through the country, turning the infected into bloodthirsty zombies, Manel (Francisco Ortiz) and his cat, Lúculo, make their way through Spain in search of safety.
Is It Any Good?
It doesn't actually use the "Z" word, but this Spanish action-horror is most definitely a zombie movie. In Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End, virus-infected people are intent on eating the flesh of survivors, who must battle these bloodthirsty beings as well as other survivors in order to stay safe. The news reports of the virus and subsequent sanctions are devastatingly familiar for all those who lived through the COVID-19 global pandemic (which is directly referenced). But rather than exploiting this, this thoughtful film shows an infected world in which humanity remain—not least with the main character, Manel, who carries a cat and helps everyone he meets, all while struggling with the death of his partner. The movie's sensitivity is reflected further in two nurses helping children to process their own grief of being orphaned. Exciting, fun, and moving, this is a top-tier zombie flick, whether the word is used or not.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End. Did you think it was excessive or what you expect when you watch a zombie movie? Were the action sequences supposed to be scary, exciting, or both? What's the impact of media and screen violence on children?
What character strengths did Manel need to have in order to survive? Why are these important traits? Can you think of a time when you've shown these strengths in your own life?
How did this movie compare to other zombie movies you've seen? What were the similarities and what were the differences?
There's some strong language in the movie. Is a certain level of language expected in a film like this? If so, why?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : October 31, 2024
- Cast : Francisco Ortiz , Marta Poveda , Iria del Río
- Director : Carles Torrens
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Prime Video
- Genre : Horror
- Topics : Fantasy
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 112 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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