I just found out that Netflix canceled the most realistic zombie series I've ever seen; let me explain why it's still worth watching.
It is far from being a summer vacation.
The series Black Summer has been canceled after two seasons, a decision that has gone unnoticed by many. Despite being praised for its unique approach to the zombie genre, a lack of audience seems to have been a determining factor in its conclusion. Black Summer, which premiered on Netflix in 2019 and released its second season in 2021, left its followers in uncertainty regarding a possible future when its co-creator, John Hyams, announced in April 2023 that there would be no third season.
This spin-off of Z Nation followed the story of a group of survivors in the early weeks of a zombie apocalypse. The characters, depicted realistically, struggle to survive and reunite with their loved ones in a chaotic setting that includes both zombies and other human threats. Each of the protagonists, from Rose, a mother desperate to find her daughter, to Spears, a criminal who takes on the role of soldier, presents a narrative arc notable for its authenticity and emotional depth.
Unlike other shows in the zombie genre that often feature characters with unrealistic shooting skills, Black Summer delves into human vulnerability, showing its characters making mistakes and impulsive decisions that can be fatal. This, combined with innovative direction that employs long, continuous takes, immerses the viewer in the action, making them feel part of the same chaos that the characters face.
It is unfortunate to see that Black Summer did not capture the public's attention to the same extent as other shows like The Walking Dead or The Last of Us, despite offering an intriguing and visceral look at survival in a post-apocalyptic world. The series' ending leaves a void for its followers, who will not receive answers to the cliffhangers at the end of the second season.
Although it has been officially "buried," fans still hope that some other streaming service will decide to resurrect this gem, which, with its distinctive style, provides an unparalleled experience in the horror and science fiction genre.
