Night of the Zoopocalypse is a thrilling animated horror-comedy adventure aimed at younger viewers that brings together scares, humour, and heart in just under 95 minutes. When a meteor crashes into Colepepper Zoo, it unleashes a virus that turns its animal inhabitants into “Gum-Beast” zombies. Gracie (Gabbi Kosmidis), a young timber wolf raised in captivity, must ally with the gruff mountain lion Dan (David Harbour) and a rag-tag band of survivors, including Felix the primate and Ash the ostrich to stop the outbreak and save their zoo. Stylistically bold, the film merges neon-hued visual flair with tension, chase sequences, gooey mutations and moments of child-friendly horror. Themes of courage, trust, community versus isolation, and self-acceptance under pressure run deep.
Critical reviews have been very positive with many reviewers calling it a “delightfully fun and spooky gateway into horror for kids,” praising its balance of chills and laughs. David Harbour, well known for his role as Jim Hopper in Stranger Things, brings gravitas and growl to Dan. Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, famous from Kim’s Convenience, provides great comic contrast as Felix. Together with Kosmidis and the rest of the cast, they create a movie that’s both wild fun and surprisingly touching. If you love offbeat animated scares, this one is a must-see pick.
If you enjoyed ParaNorman (2012) and Hotel Transylvania (2012) the Night of The Zoopocalypse should be for you.
