AMC Visionaries: Eli Roth's History of Horrors Season 3 Episode 4 Apocalyptic Horror

In the fourth episode of season 3 of AMC Visionaries: Eli Roth's History of Horror, titled "Apocalyptic Horror," viewers are taken on a journey through the world of horror films that deal with the concept of an impending apocalypse. Eli Roth sits down with prominent filmmakers and experts in the horror genre to discuss various sub-genres that make up apocalyptic horror, such as post-apocalyptic, virus outbreak, and nuclear war films.

The episode begins with a discussion on the origins of apocalyptic horror, citing the 1950s and 60s as a period when films about the end of humanity became popular due to the political climate and fear of nuclear war. The episode then goes on to explore the different sub-genres, starting with post-apocalyptic films. Viewers are introduced to films such as Mad Max, The Road, and 28 Days Later, which all feature a world after some sort of apocalypse has occurred. The experts discuss the appeal of these types of films and why they resonate with audiences.

Next, the episode delves into virus outbreak films, which have increased in popularity in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation explores films such as Contagion, Outbreak, and Resident Evil and how they depict a world overrun by a deadly virus. Eli Roth and his guests also discuss the societal fears at play in these films and how they reflect the anxieties of the times in which they were made.

The episode then turns to the topic of nuclear war films, which were popular during the Cold War era. Viewers are introduced to classics such as Dr. Strangelove and The Day After, as well as more recent films like Threads and Miracle Mile. The experts discuss the societal fears that drive these films and how the world has changed since the height of the Cold War.

Finally, the episode tackles the idea of religious apocalypse films, such as The Omen and The Seventh Seal. Eli Roth and his guests discuss the religious themes present in these films and how they add to the horror of the impending end of the world.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to clips from various apocalyptic horror films, showcasing the diversity of the sub-genres and the different ways that filmmakers have approached the idea of the world ending. As always, Eli Roth and his guests provide insightful commentary on the themes and messages present in the films, giving viewers a deeper understanding of why these types of films resonate with audiences.

"Apocalyptic Horror" is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre and for anyone interested in exploring the different ways that filmmakers have approached the idea of the end of the world. Eli Roth and his guests provide a fascinating look at the societal fears and anxieties that drive these films, showcasing the power of horror to confront and explore our darkest fears.