Re-Animator Still Reigns as One of the Best Zombie B‑Movies — Stream It Free on Tubi and The Roku Channel
Stuart Gordon’s 1985 film Re-Animator remains widely cited as a standout B-movie zombie picture. Based on H.P. Lovecraft’s “Herbert West — Reanimator,” it follows medical student Herbert West, who creates a serum that can reanimate the dead, and then the situation escalates when others misuse the formula.
What the film is about
Re-Animator is a horror comedy released in 1985 as Stuart Gordon’s directorial debut. The plot centers on Herbert West, portrayed by Jeffrey Combs, a medical student who develops a green serum that can bring dead tissue back to life. Consequently, reanimated bodies often become violent and disoriented. In addition, the plot escalates when Dr. Carl Hill, played by David Gale, obtains the serum and develops a technique to exert control over the undead.
Why it still works
Critics and fans point to several concrete elements that contribute to the film’s lasting reputation. First, the practical special effects and makeup effects remain notable for their era. Second, Jeffrey Combs’ performance as Herbert West is frequently cited as a defining element of the film’s tone. Third, the film mixes horror and camp through deliberate visual choices, such as its distinctive neon-green serum, which underlines the story’s science-fiction elements.
Tone and balance
Moreover, the film combines visceral gore with dark humor. As a result, viewers often find the movie alternates between legitimately frightening moments and overtly campy scenes. This combination helps explain why Re-Animator is regularly discussed in lists of influential 1980s horror films.
Content warnings and context
There are factual issues to note before watching. The film adapts work by H.P. Lovecraft, an author whose racist views are well documented. In addition, the movie contains a scene in which a reanimated decapitated head attempts sexual assault on a captive woman; although brief, that sequence is disturbing. Therefore, viewers should be aware of these elements and make viewing choices accordingly.
Where to watch
Re-Animator is available via video on demand from major digital retailers. Additionally, as of this writing, the film is free to stream with ads on both Tubi and The Roku Channel. For more on the trend of message-driven horror in modern cinema, see this piece on horror films with a social message.
You can stream the film for free on:
- Tubi (ad-supported)
- The Roku Channel (ad-supported)
Credits and release details
Re-Animator was released in 1985 and directed by Stuart Gordon. The screenplay is based on H.P. Lovecraft’s short story “Herbert West — Reanimator.” The principal cast includes Jeffrey Combs as Herbert West and David Gale as Dr. Carl Hill. The film was produced by Empire International Pictures and has since become a cult classic with sequels and a continuing presence in genre discussions.
