Black Zombie documentary explores Haitian Vodou origins in horror cinema

The documentary ‘Black Zombie’, directed by Canadian filmmaker Maya Annik Bedward, examines the historical and cultural origins of the zombie trope in cinema. The film explores how the concept is rooted in Haitian Vodou traditions and the history of colonial oppression in Saint-Domingue during the 1790s.

Through interviews with scholars and film historians, the documentary argues that Hollywood has appropriated these spiritual traditions, often reinforcing racial stereotypes and colonial legacies. It traces the evolution of the genre from early literary influences, such as William Seabrook’s 1929 work ‘The Magic Island’, to early cinematic adaptations like ‘White Zombie’ (1932). The film highlights the tension between the cultural roots of the zombie and its transformation into a commercial horror staple.