Table of Contents
Exploring the chilling and darkly comedic world of Nazi Zombies in Tommy Wirkola’s acclaimed sequel.
Short Summary (Non-Spoiler)
Released in 2014, Dead Snow 2 (also known as Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead) plunges viewers back into a world where the chilling threat of Nazi Zombies is far from over. This sequel picks up the narrative with its central protagonist, Martin, finding himself in a desperate struggle for survival against the relentless undead forces led by the formidable Herzog. The film escalates the stakes significantly, moving beyond mere survival to an all-out war. Martin, refusing to succumb to the gruesome fate that awaits him, embarks on an audacious mission: to assemble his own unconventional army. This strategic shift promises a larger scale of conflict and a more direct confrontation with the supernatural antagonists. Dead Snow 2 is a horror film that blends intense action with its core zombie premise, offering a continuation of the unique blend of terror and dark humor that defined its predecessor. It’s a story of unexpected heroism and the fight against an unyielding, historical evil resurrected in its most grotesque form.
Plot Synopsis
The narrative of Dead Snow 2 centers on the harrowing continuation of the conflict against the Nazi Zombies. These gruesome undead soldiers, under the command of Herzog, are not merely a lingering threat but are actively back to complete their sinister mission. Their objective remains unclear but is undoubtedly tied to their historical malevolence and insatiable hunger.
Spoilers
Our hero, Martin, who has previously encountered these terrifying adversaries, finds himself once again at the epicenter of this supernatural conflict. He is not willing to die and faces the daunting task of confronting the returning Nazi Zombie horde. Recognizing the overwhelming power and numbers of his undead foes, Martin understands that a direct, solitary confrontation is futile. Instead, he takes a proactive and audacious stance: he begins gathering his own army. This strategic decision marks a significant escalation in the conflict, transforming a desperate fight for survival into a full-scale battle. Martin’s objective is clear – to give the Nazi Zombies a final, decisive fight, indicating a climactic confrontation where the fate of the living hangs in the balance against the relentless, reanimated forces of evil. The film thus builds towards an epic showdown between Martin’s newly assembled forces and Herzog’s undead legions.
Cast & Key Crew
The success of any horror film, especially one with a unique premise like Dead Snow 2, relies heavily on the talent both in front of and behind the camera. The film features a dedicated ensemble cast and a creative team that brought this gruesome, yet often darkly comedic, vision to life.
Key Cast Members:
- Vegar Hoel as Martin
- Ørjan Gamst as Herzog
- Jocelyn DeBoer as Monica
- Martin Starr as Daniel
- Ingrid Haas as Blake
- Stig Frode Henriksen as Glenn Kenneth
- Kristoffer Joner as Sidekick Zombie
- Hallvard Holmen as Gunga
- Amrita Acharia as Mary
- Derek Mears as Stavarin
Vegar Hoel takes on the central role of Martin, the hero who finds himself in an ongoing battle against the undead. His portrayal is crucial to anchoring the film’s blend of horror and action. Ørjan Gamst returns as Herzog, the menacing leader of the Nazi Zombies, providing a formidable and iconic antagonist. The supporting cast, including Jocelyn DeBoer as Monica, Martin Starr as Daniel, and Ingrid Haas as Blake, contributes to the dynamic of Martin’s newly formed army, adding depth and varied perspectives to the ensemble. Stig Frode Henriksen, who also contributed to the screenplay, appears as Glenn Kenneth, further showcasing the collaborative spirit of the production. Kristoffer Joner’s role as a Sidekick Zombie and the appearances of Hallvard Holmen as Gunga, Amrita Acharia as Mary, and Derek Mears as Stavarin round out a diverse cast essential to the film’s expanded scope.
Key Crew Members:
- Tommy Wirkola (Director)
- Stig Frode Henriksen (Writer)
- Vegar Hoel (Writer)
- Tommy Wirkola (Writer)
- Kjetil Omberg (Producer)
- Terje Strømstad (Producer)
At the helm of Dead Snow 2 is director Tommy Wirkola, who also co-wrote the screenplay. Wirkola’s vision is instrumental in shaping the film’s distinctive tone, balancing intense horror with moments of dark humor and over-the-top action. His involvement as a writer, alongside Stig Frode Henriksen and Vegar Hoel, highlights a cohesive creative approach, ensuring that the narrative and character arcs are well-integrated with the film’s stylistic choices. The collaborative writing effort, with key cast members also contributing to the script, suggests a deep understanding of the characters and the world of Dead Snow 2. Producers Kjetil Omberg and Terje Strømstad played crucial roles in bringing the ambitious project to fruition, managing the logistical and financial aspects necessary for a film of this scale. Their collective efforts underscore the dedication required to produce a horror sequel that aims to surpass its predecessor in scope and spectacle.
Production & Trivia
The journey of bringing Dead Snow 2 to the screen involved a dedicated team and a unique set of circumstances that shaped its production. Understanding these details offers insight into the creative and logistical challenges overcome to deliver this particular horror experience.
Dead Snow 2 was released in 2014, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. The film boasts a runtime of 100 minutes, a duration that allows for the development of its expanded plot, the introduction of new characters, and the execution of its larger-scale action sequences. This runtime is typical for a horror-action hybrid, providing ample time for both tension-building and explosive confrontations.
The production of Dead Snow 2 involved a collaboration of several production companies, including The Fyzz, Sagafilm, Tappeluft Pictures, and XYZ Films. This multi-company involvement often indicates a broader reach for funding, distribution, and creative input, which can be beneficial for ambitious genre films. Each company likely contributed its expertise and resources to ensure the film’s successful completion and release.
One of the most striking pieces of trivia regarding Dead Snow 2 is its reported budget: $0. While this figure is highly unusual for a feature film of this scope and quality, it could indicate a variety of factors. It might suggest that the film was produced under an extremely lean model, potentially leveraging existing resources, deferred payments, or a highly efficient production process. Alternatively, it could be a symbolic figure, perhaps indicating that the film was made with an immense amount of passion and ingenuity, or that its primary funding came from non-traditional sources or was absorbed into a larger production slate. Regardless of the exact interpretation, a $0 budget highlights an extraordinary feat of filmmaking, emphasizing the dedication of the cast and crew to realize their vision against significant financial constraints. This detail underscores the independent spirit often found within the horror genre, where creative drive frequently outweighs conventional financial backing. The ability to produce a film with such a reported budget and still achieve a theatrical release and critical attention speaks volumes about the resourcefulness of the production team.
Analysis
Dead Snow 2, as a sequel, takes the established premise of Nazi Zombies and elevates it into a broader, more ambitious narrative. The core of the film’s appeal lies in its direct confrontation with an unrelenting evil, personified by the gruesome Nazi Zombies and their leader, Herzog. The synopsis reveals a significant shift from the survival horror of the first installment to an explicit call to arms, where the protagonist, Martin, actively gathers an army to fight back. This evolution suggests a thematic exploration of resilience, collective action, and the refusal to be a passive victim.
The film’s central conflict is not merely about escaping the undead but about confronting and defeating them. Martin’s decision to “gather his own army” implies a move towards a more organized, perhaps even militarized, response to the zombie threat. This introduces elements of war film tropes into the horror genre, promising larger-scale battles and strategic engagements rather than isolated skirmishes. The “gruesome Nazi Zombies” themselves serve as potent antagonists, embodying historical evil reanimated for a modern context. Their “mission” suggests a purpose beyond simple hunger, adding a layer of sinister intent to their actions. This historical dimension, combined with the supernatural, creates a unique horror subgenre that allows for both visceral scares and a darkly satirical commentary on the past.
The character of Martin, as the “hero,” undergoes a transformation from someone “not willing to die” to someone actively leading a counter-offensive. This arc speaks to themes of courage under extreme duress and the human capacity for fighting back against seemingly insurmountable odds. The idea of “his own army” also hints at an unconventional group, perhaps a motley crew of survivors or unexpected allies, which can often be a source of both humor and heart in horror-action films. The film’s commitment to giving the zombies “a final fight” indicates a definitive conclusion to this particular chapter of the undead saga, promising a climactic and decisive confrontation. This sense of finality, even if temporary, provides a strong narrative drive and a clear objective for the protagonist and his allies.
Overall, Dead Snow 2 appears to leverage its premise for an expanded scope, focusing on direct conflict and the formation of an unlikely resistance. It explores the enduring appeal of zombie horror while infusing it with historical context and a clear, action-oriented objective. The film’s analysis suggests a blend of intense horror, dark humor, and a compelling narrative of defiance against an ancient, reanimated evil.
Notable Scenes & Easter Eggs
Specific details regarding individual scenes or hidden Easter eggs within Dead Snow 2 are limited based on the available information. However, drawing from the plot synopsis, we can infer the nature of some key moments. The film’s premise of “gruesome Nazi Zombies” returning to “finish their mission” suggests intense and visually striking sequences of undead aggression and violence.
The pivotal development of “our hero… gathering his own army to give them a final fight” points to significant scenes involving recruitment, training, or the initial assembly of this unconventional force. These moments would be crucial for establishing the dynamic between Martin and his allies, potentially showcasing their diverse skills or personalities. The “final fight” itself would undoubtedly be a major set piece, likely involving large-scale confrontations between Martin’s army and Herzog’s zombie horde, filled with action, gore, and strategic maneuvers. While specific Easter eggs are not detailed, the film’s genre and its nature as a sequel often lend themselves to subtle nods to the original film or broader horror tropes, which viewers might discover upon repeat viewings. The emphasis on “gruesome” zombies also implies a commitment to practical and visual effects that deliver on the promise of visceral horror.
Reception & Box Office
Upon its release in 2014, Dead Snow 2 garnered attention within the horror community, building on the cult status of its predecessor. While comprehensive box office figures are not provided, the film’s reception can be gauged through audience and critical metrics.
The film achieved an IMDb rating of 6.545 out of 10, based on 695 votes. This rating suggests a generally positive reception from a significant number of viewers. A score in this range typically indicates that the film was well-regarded by its audience, finding favor with those who appreciate its specific blend of horror, action, and dark humor. For a genre film, particularly a sequel, maintaining a solid rating from a substantial number of votes is a good indicator of its ability to connect with its target demographic and deliver on expectations.
Furthermore, Dead Snow 2 registered a popularity score of 1.3485. While the exact scale and interpretation of this specific popularity score are not detailed, in general terms, a measurable popularity score indicates that the film generated a certain level of interest and engagement among audiences. This could translate to discussions, online searches, or continued viewership, contributing to its presence within the horror film landscape. The combination of a respectable IMDb rating and a discernible popularity score suggests that Dead Snow 2 successfully carved out its niche, resonating with fans of zombie horror and those who appreciate its unique take on the subgenre. Its performance, even without specific box office numbers, points to a film that achieved a notable level of appreciation and recognition within its sphere.
Recommended Editions & Where to Buy/Stream
For fans looking to experience the relentless action and dark humor of Dead Snow 2, various editions and streaming options are typically available. The availability can vary by region and over time, but generally, horror films like this find their way to multiple platforms.
Physical Editions:
- Blu-ray: Often includes high-definition video and audio, along with potential bonus features like behind-the-scenes documentaries, deleted scenes, or commentary tracks.
- DVD: A standard-definition option, usually more budget-friendly, and widely compatible with older players.
- 4K UHD: While not always available for every film, a 4K release would offer the highest possible resolution and dynamic range for an optimal viewing experience.
When purchasing physical media, checking retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or local specialty stores is recommended for the best selection and pricing.
Digital & Streaming:
- Digital Purchase/Rental: Platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV, and Vudu typically offer Dead Snow 2 for digital purchase or rental, allowing instant access.
- Streaming Services: The film may be available on various subscription streaming services, often rotating through platforms like Shudder, Hulu, or other horror-centric channels. Availability on these services can change, so it’s advisable to check current listings.
To find the most current options for buying or streaming Dead Snow 2, a quick search on major digital storefronts or streaming aggregators is the most effective approach.
Further Reading / Filmography Suggestions
For those who enjoyed the unique blend of horror, action, and dark comedy found in Dead Snow 2, exploring related works by the director and writers, or other films within the zombie subgenre, can offer further entertainment and insight.
From the Creators:
- Tommy Wirkola’s Filmography: As the director and co-writer of Dead Snow 2, Tommy Wirkola’s other works often share a similar stylistic flair, blending genre conventions with a distinct vision. Exploring his other films can provide a deeper understanding of his directorial approach and thematic interests.
- Stig Frode Henriksen & Vegar Hoel’s Collaborative Works: Given their roles as writers and actors in Dead Snow 2, investigating other projects they have been involved in, especially those where they collaborated, might reveal similar creative energies and storytelling preferences.
Related Horror Films:
- The Original Dead Snow (2009): For those who discovered the sequel first, watching the original film is essential to understand the full context of Martin’s struggle and the origins of the Nazi Zombie threat.
- Zombie-Action Hybrids: Films that similarly blend intense zombie horror with significant action sequences, often featuring a comedic or satirical edge, would be a natural progression.
- Historical Horror: Movies that incorporate historical elements or specific periods into their horror narratives, much like the Nazi Zombies, offer a different flavor of genre storytelling.
These suggestions aim to broaden the viewing experience for fans of Dead Snow 2, offering pathways to discover more works from its talented creators and other films that share its distinctive genre characteristics.
Conclusion
Dead Snow 2 stands as a compelling and ambitious sequel in the horror landscape of 2014. It successfully expands upon the gruesome premise of its predecessor, delivering a narrative that escalates from desperate survival to an all-out war against the relentless Nazi Zombies. Under the direction of Tommy Wirkola and with the collaborative writing efforts of Wirkola, Stig Frode Henriksen, and Vegar Hoel, the film crafts a unique blend of intense horror, action, and dark humor.
The film’s strength lies in its clear objective: Martin’s refusal to succumb and his audacious decision to gather an army for a final confrontation with Herzog and his undead legions. This shift provides a dynamic and engaging plot, supported by a dedicated cast including Vegar Hoel as the resilient hero and Ørjan Gamst as the iconic antagonist. The production’s reported $0 budget, while extraordinary, underscores the passion and ingenuity that went into bringing this vision to the screen, a testament to the independent spirit often found in genre filmmaking.
With a respectable IMDb rating and a notable popularity score, Dead Snow 2 resonated with audiences, solidifying its place as a memorable entry in the zombie horror subgenre. It’s a film that not only delivers on its promise of gruesome undead mayhem but also explores themes of resilience and collective action against an ancient, reanimated evil. For fans of horror that isn’t afraid to be both terrifying and darkly entertaining, Dead Snow 2 remains a significant and highly recommended viewing experience.