Z Nation

:

Season 1
  • Network: SyFy
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 12, 2014
Season #: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
6.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 232 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 141 out of 232
  2. Mixed: 35 out of 232
  3. Negative: 56 out of 232
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  1. Knobel-One
    Sep 13, 2014
    10
    It's a fun show. Isn't The Walking Dead and isn't trying to be. If you want a soap opera to relentlessly explore the feelings of characters, then enjoy TWD. If you want a zombie action show, then enjoy Z Nation.
  2. hat22
    Oct 20, 2014
    10
    This show is awesome! All these negative reviews must be written by people who take life to seriously. This show isn’t meant to be deep, meaningful or sophisticated. It’s supposed to be fun and this is where this show succeeds. There are also some very comical moments such as the zombie stuck in the wheel arch or the Mormon zombies or the death by liberty bell scene. This stuff is goldThis show is awesome! All these negative reviews must be written by people who take life to seriously. This show isn’t meant to be deep, meaningful or sophisticated. It’s supposed to be fun and this is where this show succeeds. There are also some very comical moments such as the zombie stuck in the wheel arch or the Mormon zombies or the death by liberty bell scene. This stuff is gold honestly! If you like zombies and fun, please ignore what the naysayers are saying and check it out.… Expand
  3. cayomagnetking
    Nov 29, 2014
    9
    This show may have a smaller budget than The Walking Dead, but in many ways it's a more fun series dealing with the same theme. Also, this series has a potential solution to the zombie apocalypse which makes it more attractive to me. A guilty pleasure you should give a try!
  4. CHEESEDBEEF
    Nov 19, 2014
    9
    First and foremost, this is not a knock-off of the walking dead! I went into the show wondering if I would enjoy it and i certainly did. The characters are well thought out, especially Murphy and Doc who are the best in my opinion. They have a good sense of humour (especially Doc), i find his lines hilarious and fit very well with his redneck stereotype. Theres more gore and action thanFirst and foremost, this is not a knock-off of the walking dead! I went into the show wondering if I would enjoy it and i certainly did. The characters are well thought out, especially Murphy and Doc who are the best in my opinion. They have a good sense of humour (especially Doc), i find his lines hilarious and fit very well with his redneck stereotype. Theres more gore and action than the walking dead, and thats what i want. I didnt know it was by SyFy until i watched the first few episodes, and honestly if i knew before i probably wouldnt have watched more than the first episode.
    Overall i am really enjoying the series, storyline starts of wild and in the middle of everything, but it picks up once the characters meet and everything comes together. Give this series a chance, aftr a couple of episodes you start feeling for the characters and understand them more.
    It annoys me how many people class this as a Walking Dead knock-off, the only similarity is zombies.
    Give it a go and you may be suprised, i hope there are many more seasons to come.    … Expand
  5. superking01
    Oct 20, 2014
    8
    I wasn't a fan at first but it began to grow on me. It's a fun zombie series that doesn't take itself too seriously. The cast is enjoyable. The plot has enough twists to keep it interesting. The zombies are not super frightening, but they get the job done. I think the problem most people have is when they draw direct comparison between Z Nation and The Walking Dead. Z nation isn'tI wasn't a fan at first but it began to grow on me. It's a fun zombie series that doesn't take itself too seriously. The cast is enjoyable. The plot has enough twists to keep it interesting. The zombies are not super frightening, but they get the job done. I think the problem most people have is when they draw direct comparison between Z Nation and The Walking Dead. Z nation isn't trying to be The Walking Dead. An apt analogy would be The Walking Dead : Dawn of the Dead :: Z Nation : The Return of the Living Dead. Both are good movies, but one is fantastic drama wrapped in a zombie movie, and the other is a fun romp with a decent plot and lots of gags.… Expand
  6. sedman40
    Oct 20, 2014
    10
    i am a huge walking dead fan so thought i would give this a try after first episode thought it was a bit corny but liked it now i love it great show hope it keeps going and 10,000 get all of his kills keep up the good work SyFy
  7. Madd_Dawg
    Oct 20, 2014
    9
    It's so easy to be negative, most reviews about Z Nation are bad, comparing it to TWD and how glorious it is. Many of reviewers forgot "farm life" pace of the season 2 of TWD. Z Nation depicts post-apocalyptic world as I would imagine it would be. Special effects are proportional to the budget. Unlike in TWD, There is purpose higher than survival. There was more action in 6 episodes of ZIt's so easy to be negative, most reviews about Z Nation are bad, comparing it to TWD and how glorious it is. Many of reviewers forgot "farm life" pace of the season 2 of TWD. Z Nation depicts post-apocalyptic world as I would imagine it would be. Special effects are proportional to the budget. Unlike in TWD, There is purpose higher than survival. There was more action in 6 episodes of Z Nation than in season 2 of TWD.
    I like both shows and I hope Z Nation survives beyond this season.    … Expand
  8. NandaBerty
    Oct 21, 2014
    9
    This show is entertaining. It's not trying to be dramatic or intense, It's just plain fun to watch.
    Sure, the special effects aren't the best and the lines tend to be a bit cheesy, But to be honest, That's what I enjoy about it.
    Every time I recommend this show to someone I always tell them that to enjoy this show you have to keep an open mind, This show isn't like The Walking Dead, And    This show is entertaining. It's not trying to be dramatic or intense, It's just plain fun to watch.
    Sure, the special effects aren't the best and the lines tend to be a bit cheesy, But to be honest, That's what I enjoy about it.
    Every time I recommend this show to someone I always tell them that to enjoy this show you have to keep an open mind, This show isn't like The Walking Dead, And it's not trying to be.
    Z Nation is a simple yet entertaining show about Zombies, It's a great show to watch if you want something Lighthearted, Will make you laugh and still has some action.    … Expand
  9. andywang1615
    Dec 3, 2014
    9
    This show takes itself a lot less seriously than TWD, and is a lot more reminiscent of older zombie movies. Fast action, simple but interesting characters, and every episode is action packed and fast moving. It's a fun show to watch and I give it a 9/10.
  10. Ray-M
    Dec 5, 2014
    8
    I like Zombie flicks and Z-nation is fun to watch, Some shows take themselves serious and pretend that the story is real. Z nation is fun unpredictable and does not go into the dark emotional drivel like other end of the world shows. More fun to watch than the walking dead for sure.
  11. kat028
    Dec 7, 2014
    10
    I liked it from the start til the end of this first season.... Certainly was the best cliff hanger end to a season I have seen in a long time. .. And I am a Walking Dead kinda girl to...Loved the comedy in it, and the straight lets get to the point of the operation and not talk for two or more episodes and drag the show out, is a breath of fresh air. Never had to fast forward a scene inI liked it from the start til the end of this first season.... Certainly was the best cliff hanger end to a season I have seen in a long time. .. And I am a Walking Dead kinda girl to...Loved the comedy in it, and the straight lets get to the point of the operation and not talk for two or more episodes and drag the show out, is a breath of fresh air. Never had to fast forward a scene in this whole series so far, unlike TWD I must say.. It is only getting better with each episode... can't wait for next season... I even felt sorry for some of the zombies when Murphy showed kindness and sorrow for them, and he is hilarious to boot. I hope this stays on tv for a long time yet like it deserves...Bring on next year...… Expand
  12. SandeepP
    Jan 22, 2015
    10
    Its a fun ride that is everything the TWD is not. Its fast, full of zombie scenarios that actual zombie fans look for, things happen quickly, there is humor both dark and otherwise. And the lack of a huge budget is hardly noticeable. Try it, you won't be disappointed. Watch out for Citizen Z, Doc, they are great fun characters. I love TWD as well and only hope TWD's team looks at ZnationIts a fun ride that is everything the TWD is not. Its fast, full of zombie scenarios that actual zombie fans look for, things happen quickly, there is humor both dark and otherwise. And the lack of a huge budget is hardly noticeable. Try it, you won't be disappointed. Watch out for Citizen Z, Doc, they are great fun characters. I love TWD as well and only hope TWD's team looks at Znation and learns where they have slipped. Znation rocks.… Expand
  13. Tshober
    Feb 5, 2015
    9
    Ignore the "critic" reviews, they based it on the first episode. Before mid-point of the first season, this show proves to be highly entertaining.

    The first episode was a little off the wall, however watch a few more and you get hooked. These guys set the pace to frantic and keep the pedal to the metal. Whereas TWD has become a snooze fest, last few seasons I fast forward more and more.    Ignore the "critic" reviews, they based it on the first episode. Before mid-point of the first season, this show proves to be highly entertaining.

    The first episode was a little off the wall, however watch a few more and you get hooked. These guys set the pace to frantic and keep the pedal to the metal. Whereas TWD has become a snooze fest, last few seasons I fast forward more and more. Get to the cannibal family episode early on in Z Nation and you will grow to love the show.

    The awesome thing is that this show experiments and surprises you in every episode. Slow zombies, zombie kings, viagra zombies, zombies on speed, radioactive zombies. A Run Lola Run episode as well as a existential crisis brought on by carbon monoxide really keep you reeled in. I may be done with TWD, but I'm eagerly awaiting season 2 of Z Nation!!!    … Expand
  14. jorashawk
    Dec 10, 2014
    8
    It's not "The Walking Dead" but I think that's the point. Good effects and action but I'll ding it a little for inconsistency in Zombie behavior. The acting is average but character development is good. I was a little worried when I saw that it was being made by SyFy but they've done a pretty decent job. I think it needs more tension and slightly more serious tone but that might makeIt's not "The Walking Dead" but I think that's the point. Good effects and action but I'll ding it a little for inconsistency in Zombie behavior. The acting is average but character development is good. I was a little worried when I saw that it was being made by SyFy but they've done a pretty decent job. I think it needs more tension and slightly more serious tone but that might make it a little too much like TWD.… Expand
  15. rpfomega
    Mar 6, 2015
    8
    Z Nation is the show the Walking Dead wishes it could go back in time and be. While the Walking Dead is a bunch of characters (who nobody cares whether they live or die) sitting around talking about their feelings and who should be in charge for 8 episodes (with an occasional zombie forced in, for no apparent reason), Z Nation actually shows a full world view (with more than Walking Dead’sZ Nation is the show the Walking Dead wishes it could go back in time and be. While the Walking Dead is a bunch of characters (who nobody cares whether they live or die) sitting around talking about their feelings and who should be in charge for 8 episodes (with an occasional zombie forced in, for no apparent reason), Z Nation actually shows a full world view (with more than Walking Dead’s “other survivors = worse than zombies” formula). They have a brilliant foil to allow access to everything going on for the viewer as well as a mission for the characters to follow that turns out to be something way more than just a thin reason to head west. I actually give a ### when someone dies and I believe the other characters do as well (unlike the other zombie show.)

    If you want a soap opera whose only reason for having zombies is to give shallow characters a reason not to walk away from each other, watch the Walking Dead. If you want Zombieland in a box, watch Z Nation.    … Expand
  16. moshspeggeti
    Jan 17, 2015
    9
    This is a hilarious and quality zombie show. Everyone keeps comparing it to TWD, but they definitely should NOT be compared. This is not meant to be a serious show, and should not be treated as such. It's a show meant to have fun watching and just enjoy it.
  17. h22aaccord94
    Jan 19, 2015
    8
    Lots of fun. Takes a minute to get going, but by the end of the first season i couldn't wait for season 2. It is is just good, post apocalyptic, zombie infused fun.
  18. cprfirstaidaed
    Feb 16, 2015
    10
    It's a great zombie show! Suspense, funny, and most story lines begin and complete in the same episode! I REALLY like it! I am a huge The Walking Dead and ZNation fan!
  19. cindykim2
    Feb 18, 2015
    10
    Whoever rate this show below a 6 is most not like zombie movies or shows. Nation Z is my utmost favorite zombie show I've watched, bringing The Walking Dead as my second Favorite. Love it! I recommend any zombie lover out there to watch. :)
  20. AthanasiosT
    Mar 14, 2015
    8
    FINALLY, a zombie series with zombies !! Unlike walking dead, where you have to sit through existential analysis for all characters, this is a bloody and brain eating horror fest. Watch it and like it.
  21. Ammy
    Mar 4, 2015
    10
    This is waaaaaay better than The Walking dead. Thank God! I love zombie movies and was so excited for a zombie TV show when TWD came out. I was so disappointed. Don't get me wrong - I don't hate TWD. It works to pass the time. Z Nation on the other hand is just so much more intelligent and enjoyable. I don't get pissed off at the characters for doing stupid stuff as much - you know,This is waaaaaay better than The Walking dead. Thank God! I love zombie movies and was so excited for a zombie TV show when TWD came out. I was so disappointed. Don't get me wrong - I don't hate TWD. It works to pass the time. Z Nation on the other hand is just so much more intelligent and enjoyable. I don't get pissed off at the characters for doing stupid stuff as much - you know, because they don't do stupid stuff yet *gasp* they still manage to have a story.… Expand
  22. MulderYuffie
    Feb 24, 2015
    10
    This is a very creative and unique series all the characters get the spotlight here and there with some nice development especially from our main star Murphy he is really the glue holding this all together it's amazing seeing his journey from the start to the end of the season. I love the goal oriented story right from the get go they have an end goal sure they are surviving but there isThis is a very creative and unique series all the characters get the spotlight here and there with some nice development especially from our main star Murphy he is really the glue holding this all together it's amazing seeing his journey from the start to the end of the season. I love the goal oriented story right from the get go they have an end goal sure they are surviving but there is purpose and heart put into this instead of just wondering around. I absolutely have no idea why I prefer this awful show compared to "a group of 15 people talking in a forest for half the show since the company stinted it's budget". Hehe don't worry you won't be watching them sit on a farm all season nope not this show. Speaking of that "other show" I love how a good majority of people who rate this show low always say it's a ripoff of THAT show like it was the first zombie related thing that ever existed. Hint hint for those old enough to know better it isn't. Anyways this series does good and serious AND goofy it really drives home that it isn't meant to be taken as a super serious drama but a pretty sweet thrillride with some awesome characters , decent paced story and great blend of funny and serious all packed into one if that sounds good to you well check this out i'm sure you'll love it… Expand
  23. Ultratank
    Feb 26, 2015
    10
    Awesome show the plot and characters are well done and don't take forever to get to the point. This show doesn't take itself too seriously and just has fun with it's ideas highly watchable entertainment one of the most underrated shows of 2014 even if you aren't too big into zombies this adventure will keep you going and if you are into zombies there is a lot less melodrama here check it out!
  24. Xanderex
    Mar 10, 2015
    8
    Watched the first few episodes and wasn't overly impressed at the acting and the cheesy moments, but continued to watch and it grew on me. It gets a lot better, and a few characters are real standouts in their acting. the storyline is interesting and there are plenty of zombie moments to keep it interesting. It's a very different show than twd, and I enjoyed this for it's fun moments ofWatched the first few episodes and wasn't overly impressed at the acting and the cheesy moments, but continued to watch and it grew on me. It gets a lot better, and a few characters are real standouts in their acting. the storyline is interesting and there are plenty of zombie moments to keep it interesting. It's a very different show than twd, and I enjoyed this for it's fun moments of insanity and I recommend this. The low reviews are from those who only watched a couple episodes at best.… Expand
  25. MrMattyb3
    Aug 1, 2015
    7
    This show has a lot of surprises and that characters vary greatly in their personalities. There's a comradery but not so strong that their actions become too predictable. I love the whole idea of citizen Z and his ability to access all technology and assist as the "eye in the sky." Like other commenters have said, you never know who they're gong to kill off. They'll totally develop aThis show has a lot of surprises and that characters vary greatly in their personalities. There's a comradery but not so strong that their actions become too predictable. I love the whole idea of citizen Z and his ability to access all technology and assist as the "eye in the sky." Like other commenters have said, you never know who they're gong to kill off. They'll totally develop a character, then kill them unceremoniously. I like this about the show because it makes it less predictable. I also love the idea of a zombie/human hybrid. He kind of walks between both worlds while still holding on to his humanity.

    I would have liked it better if the SyFy channel didn't air this the same time as The Walking Dead. I'm not sure who made this decision in upper management but it's costing them millions as they could have had all of the true fans to this show plus the Walking Dead fans who are going through zombie withdrawal. I would like them to offset the season so that it falls out of sync with TWD so they could generate more revenue then maybe improve the special effects a bit.    … Expand
  26. specialteasauce
    Oct 6, 2014
    9
    Light hearted and gruesome. Ticks all the boxes for fun loving geeks who enjoy all things zombie. There are fun little Easter eggs for zombie fans and they are always making fun of the genre. Too many people are trying to compare it to The Walking Dead, but they are in completely different categories. TWD is full blown drama, which I love, but Z nation is intentionally silly, which bringsLight hearted and gruesome. Ticks all the boxes for fun loving geeks who enjoy all things zombie. There are fun little Easter eggs for zombie fans and they are always making fun of the genre. Too many people are trying to compare it to The Walking Dead, but they are in completely different categories. TWD is full blown drama, which I love, but Z nation is intentionally silly, which brings the fun back to zombies.

    If you don't get it, switch on AMC, watch an Emmy award winning desaturated drama, and leave the mock-drama to us.    … Expand
  27. Moviefan1
    Sep 15, 2014
    9
    Super-entertaining new zombie series. Z Nation plays with long-standing zombie tropes -- accepting some and twisting others. The series does have gore, but ultimately, the writers have created a diverse group of characters that I cared about. And most importantly, these characters have a mission to accomplish, which sets the show apart from Walking Dead. Definitely worth watching!
  28. RachelBella
    Oct 21, 2014
    9
    This a great easy watching gore-fest, It was nice to discover a Zombie show that wasn't a knock off of TWD which is honestly what I was expecting, and the best part is that the nature of the show makes it unexpectedly funny in the best possible way.
  29. suk111
    Sep 24, 2014
    10
    I love Walking Dead too, but both shows need not be compared. Nothing worse here, just nothing New and a little bad Acting and Script. But it just started, i hope that as it moves on it gets better. And waiting for Walking Dead 5 too with The Strain almost over.
  30. clsdchaos
    Sep 15, 2014
    7
    It's definitely not a great show, that said it's not horrible either. It's low budget, or appears low budget, so I can't compare it to other shows or movies, as far as visually. I liked that a lot of people died, there was lots of action, and the zombies were a real threat. However I didn't care about most of the characters, and I'm not sure if it was because of not knowing them asIt's definitely not a great show, that said it's not horrible either. It's low budget, or appears low budget, so I can't compare it to other shows or movies, as far as visually. I liked that a lot of people died, there was lots of action, and the zombies were a real threat. However I didn't care about most of the characters, and I'm not sure if it was because of not knowing them as characters or the acting or even the script. I don't think it's squandered its potential yet. I can't say much except I will watch another show to see if it's any good. I'm hopeful, as long as it doesn't become boring, or another drama about pretend love and loss during a zombie outbreak.....or try to force me to care about a character so the death makes an impact.… Expand
  31. scraggyandi
    Feb 11, 2015
    10
    Very action packed. Good acting. It's just the lines and behaviors of the characters that make it so cheesy and typical for a zombie-apocalypse movie. Aside from all of that, it keeps you on edge. Citizen Z is my favorite character, but like I said. Cheesy, typical acting. I really like DJ Qualls being in this series. I have grown to like this show and am looking forward to more seasons.Very action packed. Good acting. It's just the lines and behaviors of the characters that make it so cheesy and typical for a zombie-apocalypse movie. Aside from all of that, it keeps you on edge. Citizen Z is my favorite character, but like I said. Cheesy, typical acting. I really like DJ Qualls being in this series. I have grown to like this show and am looking forward to more seasons. The bad lines the characters get can be improved and it can become an amazing show, that just takes time. I won't give up on this show though. I love it.… Expand
  32. Lillyverona
    Sep 21, 2014
    9
    This is a Zombie show that knows it's audience :)
    Fun and with a few good scares. I stopped watching Walking dead because of all the drama, Z Nation promises to be much more light hearted and doesn't seem to take itself to seriously.

    Make sure you don't stop watching halfway through the first episode. If you are like me. you will love the ending!
  33. TheQuietGamer
    Sep 19, 2014
    7
    It's clear that just from the two starting episodes that this is going to be one divisive zombie show. Some will be able to appreciate it's less serious tone, while others are going to despise it for it. It's definitely got some issues with it's characters so far. It has yet to really teach us anything about them, making them feel like nothing more than random survivor stereotypes. InsteadIt's clear that just from the two starting episodes that this is going to be one divisive zombie show. Some will be able to appreciate it's less serious tone, while others are going to despise it for it. It's definitely got some issues with it's characters so far. It has yet to really teach us anything about them, making them feel like nothing more than random survivor stereotypes. Instead the show chooses so far to focus more on entertaining scenarios and action.

    It takes pride in it's zombie violence. Kills are usually fun to watch, and the scenarios have been plenty entertaining. It definitely doesn't take itself too seriously. It feels self-aware and pokes fun at the genre. It's also not afraid to do things that will make you say "What? Really?", but in a good way. Despite that though it's world still feels believable.

    Probably the biggest thing it has going for it right now is that it has an overall goal for it's characters, rather than just survival. However until they make us care about these characters it's still going to lag behind it's competition (mainly The Walking Dead). It also doesn't help that the acting could be better and some dialog can just be awful. A particularly standout moment involves a cliched talk about "hope" and something to believe in that takes place during the second episode.

    Z Nation could definitely use some work so far, but there's a heck of a lot of potential here. It does something different with zombies on TV, and I have to admit that I'm enjoying it so far. If they tighten up the writing and give us a reason to care about these characters then we might have another great zombie show on TV. As it stands now it's an entertaining romp through the undead, but not one everyone is going to get behind. As of right not my total score for the season is a 7.5/10. Should my opinions change later based on any sort of increase or decrease in quality then I will update my review. As of now consider this my definitive opinion.    … Expand
  34. gmonster320
    Oct 4, 2014
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. "Z Nation" is a no holds barred, zombie killing extravaganza (with some camp thrown in). If you like fast moving zombies and creative zombie killing, this might be the show for you. Just dont expect it to be high on plot. This isnt Shakespeare. The first episode of "Z Nation" started out super fast and it hasnt slowed down since. The basic premise is a rag tag group of survivors must get Murphy to the CDC in CA (they are of course on the East coast) so a zombie vaccine can be created. As they travel along they encounter LOTS of zombes and some humans (who are even more dangerous than the zombies). I love the show because its straight up crazy. There are weed smoking zombies, Amish zombies, zombie babies and death by Liberty Bell. Next week there's a zombie tornado (or should I say Znado). Who can ask for more?… Expand
  35. ezdrew11
    Sep 13, 2014
    9
    Z Nation -- Lacks in good acting, Special effects are very well done for the most part, SYFY has access to some of the best special effects makeup artists out there thanks to "FaceOff" It had to have been hard for SyFy to grab good actors willing to give this series a shot. If you can get past the acting for now and see how the show progresses, maybe it will all come together for SyFy. theZ Nation -- Lacks in good acting, Special effects are very well done for the most part, SYFY has access to some of the best special effects makeup artists out there thanks to "FaceOff" It had to have been hard for SyFy to grab good actors willing to give this series a shot. If you can get past the acting for now and see how the show progresses, maybe it will all come together for SyFy. the show Defiance has great actors, great special effects and great story. I don't see a reason why they can't pull Z Nation off. I gave the show a 9 out of 10 For the effort , they are after all competing with The Walking Dead. Also So many show have been knocked out before a season is even finished no matter the Network despite great story and acting. Give it a chance, I am. Now for My Rating not based on effort I give it a 4 out of 10 bad script / bad actors.… Expand
  36. DogMan107
    Feb 22, 2015
    9
    After a rough season premiere, I can safely say this show is nearly better than TWD.

    TWD's pace has come to a near halt. The characters aren't really interesting anymore, the episodes are boring, acting isn't great, and the show's actual creativity with the story doesn't go anywhere anymore. There's no human conflict, just a lot of moping and doping about. I'm tired of it. And I'm    After a rough season premiere, I can safely say this show is nearly better than TWD.

    TWD's pace has come to a near halt. The characters aren't really interesting anymore, the episodes are boring, acting isn't great, and the show's actual creativity with the story doesn't go anywhere anymore. There's no human conflict, just a lot of moping and doping about.

    I'm tired of it. And I'm glad I gave Z Nation another shot. After its debut on netflix, I've been watching every episode with pure enjoyment. The show's characters are fun and interesting, and are generally a ton more likeable than TWD. The special effects, although not fantastic, will get better after the first season as TWD did. The show's creativity with each episode surpasses TWD in every respect. Would you rather watch people walking around talking for half an hour with a few zombie kills thrown in and someone crying (TWD), or would you rather watch a isolated man on a military listening outpost hallucinating with his imaginary friend and slowly their relationship gets more and more violent as stranger things happen in the outpost until their friendship breaks into war (Z Nation)? And that's not even scratching the surface of how much more entertaining this show is.

    The action is face paced and more creative, the characters are more thought out, and a TON more likable, the acting is superb, and the general entertainment and creativity of the storyline shines through in every respect. Don't start on the first episode, start on the 6th or 7th like I did, work your way up, and then work your way backwards like I did to help yourself see the full potential of the show.    … Expand
  37. conasasjaffe
    Sep 27, 2014
    10
    My whole family and I love z nation. It is a good show and it moves at a great pace. Love it. The actors are good. They bring some comedy to scary. This is a show that we look foward to watching. Good job.
  38. xinosaj
    Oct 1, 2014
    8
    Don't pay attention to the negative reviews. The negative reviewers are comparing the show to The Walking Dead and lament that Z-Nation doesn't delve deeply into the emotional lives of the characters. If you love TWD and want a show exactly like it, then Z-Nation will seem shallow and comparatively poorly-acted to you. (Actually, the acting isn't that bad. It's the directing that'sDon't pay attention to the negative reviews. The negative reviewers are comparing the show to The Walking Dead and lament that Z-Nation doesn't delve deeply into the emotional lives of the characters. If you love TWD and want a show exactly like it, then Z-Nation will seem shallow and comparatively poorly-acted to you. (Actually, the acting isn't that bad. It's the directing that's inferior, not the actors. I'm afraid the Asylum still doesn't have the budget to hire Frank Darabont.) If you want a fun show that revels in gore and action, then Z-Nation is a rewarding guilty-pleasure.

    Personally, I don't see a contradiction between TWD and Z-Nation. You can enjoy them both. I see The Walking Dead as the depiction of the Zombie apocalypse in the southern United States. Rick and his group are religious, family-focused, and attuned to moral dilemma as a result of the strong evangelical Christian culture of the south (something that's been alluded to openly throughout the series). Z-Nation, by contrast, is the Zombie apocalypse as seen from the secular Northeastern states, where the population is post-Christian and irreligious, young (due to the large number of college students), unmarried, results-orientated, and fast-paced, with little concern about moral dilemmas or searching their souls. It's an excellent contrast between the cultures of the north and the south.

    Z-Nation seems to be aware that is presenting the northern view of the zombie apocalypse, because it answers questions implied by TWD's southern locale. For example, people living in Vermont would easily fend off a zombie apocalypse because the zombies would simply freeze solid. So why hasn't New England and Montana taken control of the country and sent rescue missions into the south? Z-Nation provides the answer....because the northerners starved to death because all the food comes from the south and west!

    Z-Nation is well-worth the time of anyone who likes zombie movies and isn't demanding a complete TWD clone. Basically, if you like's Snyder's Dawn of the Dead, you'll like this.    … Expand
  39. FonzieG
    Oct 7, 2014
    7
    It is inevitable to compare Z-Nation to TWD. However, it's very important to note that TWD focuses more on the drama aspect of the apocalypse with gore peppered throughout while ZN focuses more on the gore with some minor drama (it's only been 4 episodes after all). Since its a SciFi production, the production values aren't great, as with most SciFi programming. While I don't think ZNIt is inevitable to compare Z-Nation to TWD. However, it's very important to note that TWD focuses more on the drama aspect of the apocalypse with gore peppered throughout while ZN focuses more on the gore with some minor drama (it's only been 4 episodes after all). Since its a SciFi production, the production values aren't great, as with most SciFi programming. While I don't think ZN holds a candle against TWD, I do like the fact that it's exploring the zombie apocalypse in a different way. I hope ZN takes off and gains more resources to improve the quality of future seasons. I hope this results in a future zombie series that resembles TWD season 1 throughout. AMC messed up in dropping Frank Darabont after season 1 and it really showed in seasons 2-4.… Expand
  40. MLancer
    Dec 13, 2014
    10
    I loved this show from start to finish. I had to create an account just to make a review and I never review anything. I used to be big into TWD but stopped watching it because they had to start dragging everything out and it got so boring. All the hard core TWD fans will always argue "it's character development" but that's just bs, they just won't admit they are bored. This show isI loved this show from start to finish. I had to create an account just to make a review and I never review anything. I used to be big into TWD but stopped watching it because they had to start dragging everything out and it got so boring. All the hard core TWD fans will always argue "it's character development" but that's just bs, they just won't admit they are bored. This show is constantly moving and it's fun to watch and suspenseful!… Expand
  41. slayde11
    Sep 21, 2014
    9
    Solidly entertaining zombie show -- and yes, I'm also a huge TWD fan, and it earned my admiration. I love how they mix up existing tropes, while still having a little wink-nod fun by acknowledging The Prison Gang as if they all inhabit the same universe. But this show hits the ground sprinting by setting the action 3-4 years into the apocalypse, and giving these characters a mission rightSolidly entertaining zombie show -- and yes, I'm also a huge TWD fan, and it earned my admiration. I love how they mix up existing tropes, while still having a little wink-nod fun by acknowledging The Prison Gang as if they all inhabit the same universe. But this show hits the ground sprinting by setting the action 3-4 years into the apocalypse, and giving these characters a mission right out of the gate. The characters are diverse, tough, and rendered with sufficient humanity that I care about their fates. The action is gory and non-stop, with quite a few entertaining (even wryly funny) moments. Make no mistake: This isn't TWD, and it ain't trying to go there. If you prefer poignant character exploration against the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse, watch TWD. If you prefer relentless, fast-paced action with zombies as the main event, definitely check out Z Nation. Or, like me, ask yourself why there's only room for one -- and just enjoy 'em both.… Expand
  42. CinaOpus
    Dec 13, 2014
    7
    Z Nation is like a good B movie. If you don't expect too much you will be pleasantly surprised. Fun characters with slightly above average plot lines. Just enjoy it for what it is, a B Walking Dead. However, it is better than most of the movies made by SyFy.
  43. Woodness
    Sep 19, 2015
    10
    Comparing this to TWD is a joke.
    The team gets thrown around lots of times, action is really good, enough fun and sarcasm. Overall it gets better by each episode and no episode tackles the same stuff.
  44. MeritCoba
    Apr 12, 2016
    8
    Zombies are hot, but their entertainment lifespan is limited. So when the zombie apocalypse is the source for a series more is needed to keep the audience entertained than running away from the shuffling dead to find a safe place and begin rebuilding humanity from there. The walking dead series outlasted its first season by turning into a soap in which the relations between the humansZombies are hot, but their entertainment lifespan is limited. So when the zombie apocalypse is the source for a series more is needed to keep the audience entertained than running away from the shuffling dead to find a safe place and begin rebuilding humanity from there. The walking dead series outlasted its first season by turning into a soap in which the relations between the humans became the focus and the zombies were shoved into the background. They might as well be orcs.

    Z nation is set around a mission and thus has a focus, which is to transport a survivor of a zombie attack, named Murphy to a lab at the other side of the country so he might provide his blood as an antivirus against the zombie virus.This is the macGuffin that propels the story.
    As a consequence the group is small(they fit in one truck), ad hoc and more busy with the challenges that arise from travelling through a zombie infested country in which humans are hardly any friendlier than the living dead. While many concerns are similar(food, water, petrol) the aim of the group is limited as it is temporary and the need to socialize is less. When people are in dire straits they look no further than the next day and the group has never time to settle and get social. As Murphy tells an outsider: they are like foxhole buddies. It fits the mood.

    Z nation has some subplots. For one, the survivor Murphy is slowly changing because of the virus. He is also a selfish person and he will do some nasty things to people during the series, but his infliction also helps him to save the group(but for selfish reasons) several times. For another, there is Citizen Z who is holed up on the north pole on a NSA base and able to contact, guide and help the group via all kinds of communications devices he hacks from a distance. There is also a few love affairs.

    The makeup of the group throughout the series will change. Some people get killed and get replaced. At one point two members will split off and even be followed in an episode of their own..The group that starts out is therefore different from the one at the end of the season.

    The quality of the episodes varies. There are hilarious moments, for instance when the group finds the liberty bell and lose it again with the bell bouncing away and plowing through scores of zombies. There are some things that feel like a direct rip off from movies, such as one where someone relives an episode, gets killed, relives it again but changes his reaction, gets killed regardless and lives again and so on. Just like edge of tomorrow. There are the obvious setups like when someone steps in a car and doesn't check the back a zombie pops up or when one person is left alone she gets abducted. Guns run out of ammunition at convenient moments (storywise). A heavily drunken group member can shoot straight(try that with half a bottle of whiskey) when it is needed.There is an episode with religious fanatics, who think the zombies are the resurrected that walk the earth again. There is one with people who turned to cannibalism.It isn't top notch writing and sometimes an episode feels rushed.

    The redeeming factor is that the group members are basically likable people who are in a bad situation and you wonder if they ever reach their goal.There is fun, lots of zombie killing, the acting is decent but the drama flat and the story nothing remarkable. Looking forward to season two just to see how it will develop.    … Expand
  45. dmanizzle
    Oct 27, 2015
    7
    Creativity is this show's main points. The storytelling and writing for this show has been pretty amazing. Seeing a wide variety of zombies, survivors, and locations have been an entertaining segment. This show has a mix of action, humor, and tragedy, and I have definitely been hooked. The characters have been a welcome addition to it all, and Murphy is the star of this show.

    If I were    Creativity is this show's main points. The storytelling and writing for this show has been pretty amazing. Seeing a wide variety of zombies, survivors, and locations have been an entertaining segment. This show has a mix of action, humor, and tragedy, and I have definitely been hooked. The characters have been a welcome addition to it all, and Murphy is the star of this show.

    If I were to compare this to any other zombie show or movie, it would be Zombie Land.    … Expand
  46. BARRYinTHAILAND
    May 26, 2015
    10
    It's just fun low budget zombie mayhem and fun. Don't take it too seriously. Nothing not to like here. Is the acting sometimes subpar? Yes. Are the effects above average at best. You bet. Does the zombie makeup stack up to WD? Absolutely not.
  47. skaven75
    Nov 24, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Z Nation is a comedy (opposite to the walkind dead). It cannot be compared to TWD.
    It's a "B" zombie serie who is not serious, who dosen't follow the basic "principles" of the zombies.
    (Plant zombies, Baby running zombies, radiated zombies.)
    It's fun, watchable, turn off your brain and just enjoy.    … Expand
  48. CaraDavies
    Sep 6, 2015
    8
    Karl Schaefer (creator of Eureka and The Dead Zone) has launched a new show on Syfy called Z Nation that packs in a whole lot of bite and heart. Set three years after an extinction-level zombie apocalypse, Z Nation follows a rag tag group of survivors on a mission to save humanity as they travel across the US from New York to L.A.

    The reviews for Z Nation have been tepid, with critics    Karl Schaefer (creator of Eureka and The Dead Zone) has launched a new show on Syfy called Z Nation that packs in a whole lot of bite and heart. Set three years after an extinction-level zombie apocalypse, Z Nation follows a rag tag group of survivors on a mission to save humanity as they travel across the US from New York to L.A.

    The reviews for Z Nation have been tepid, with critics accusing it of being “the poor man’s The Walking Dead”, or of lacking a fresh take on the Zombie genre. However, the strength of the show is the fact it’s not afraid to be funny or straight forward; unlike the glossy production style and gravitas of The Walking Dead, Z Nation is a little more B-movie and tongue in cheek. The creators clearly love the horror genre, and have placed homages to classics such as Shaun of the Dead and 28 Days Later throughout the episodes that will reward hard-core Z fans.

    The best thing about the show so far is its characters and cast, who are likeable with complex psychologies and relationships driving their behaviour. However, unlike other post-apocalyptic shows like The Walking Dead or the BBC’s Survivors, Z Nation doesn’t get bogged down by overly depressing or introspective scenes: it keeps a good pace and sense of fun, even in the darker episodes.

    Z Nation - Season 1

    The script writers create realistic dialogue and reactions which make the characters more believable and easier to identify with than the archetypal horror movie anti-heroes. DJ Quall gives one of the strongest performances as Citizen Z, a nerdy NSA agent stranded alone on the North Pole using the might of the shadow government to aid the survivors. While, Nat Zang’s performance as 10k- a young sharpshooter with a dark past- is both intriguing and undeniably bad ass.

    Z Nation manages to balance horror and comedy well, with enough jumps and plot to keep you hooked and looking forward to the next episode. If you’re a zombie fan it’s an absolute must watch that will allow you to get your geek on. The real test of the show will be if they manage to cultivate a story arc detailed enough to stretch beyond the first season, or if they become complacent and allow the show to become simply an aimless drawn out road trip. Schaefer’s other shows have tended to suffer from this loss of momentum, often ending with far less viewers than they began with, hopefully Z Nation will be the exception and live up to it’s potential.

    Season one has been given a run of 13 episodes and airs Fridays on Syfy in the US. There hasn’t been a UK air date confirmed yet. However piracy figures show the pilot is one of the most torrented files in Australia, the UK and Brazil, suggesting the show will attract large audiences outside of the States.    … Expand
  49. Shakes505
    Oct 30, 2015
    10
    Amazing show, for the budget this has been made on it's brilliant! You cant really compare this to the walking dead even though they are based on the same thing they play completely differently. Z Nation is constantly moving forward it never feels stale or stagnant it's impossible to get bored of it unlike other similar shows. One actor or character stand out the most his name is MurphyAmazing show, for the budget this has been made on it's brilliant! You cant really compare this to the walking dead even though they are based on the same thing they play completely differently. Z Nation is constantly moving forward it never feels stale or stagnant it's impossible to get bored of it unlike other similar shows. One actor or character stand out the most his name is Murphy and OMG he is spectacular he's a wild one! Just watch this show!!!… Expand
  50. TheReceptor
    Jan 2, 2016
    10
    Hello everybody!

    To be honest right from the start: My 10 rating is a little overrated to compensate for the many TWD fan based negative ratings. This show is different, but in no way worse than TWD, which is a drama show. Z-nation is a zombie themed action, comedy show with some western-movie flavor and does very good at it! Humor is bloody good, action sequences are great and    Hello everybody!

    To be honest right from the start: My 10 rating is a little overrated to compensate for the many TWD fan based negative ratings. This show is different, but in no way worse than TWD, which is a drama show.

    Z-nation is a zombie themed action, comedy show with some western-movie flavor and does very good at it! Humor is bloody good, action sequences are great and mostly believable, actors do a good, sometimes great job and the cast members fit their roles very well. Directing and camera work are always high standard and make for a great atmosphere.

    There is hardly any boring episode and the balance between the big story arc, character development and episode plot is hit quite right. It's fast paced overall and contains a lot of good zombie splatter action.

    One thing is done especially well: The scenery and variety of places, zombies and enemies! Everything is in constant motion here, which is what makes the show very entertaining and get's you hooked up quite fast.

    If zombies don't scare you right away, you should definitely give it a try.    … Expand
  51. beaner02
    Nov 1, 2016
    9
    There are too many people trying to compare this to The Walking Dead. The two shows have nothing in common except zombies, and the zombies don't even act the same. This is simply a lighthearted entertaining show that isn't trying to put on airs. The characters are all funny and lovable, every episode has action, and the plot is constantly moving forward. No deep thought, just guns that goThere are too many people trying to compare this to The Walking Dead. The two shows have nothing in common except zombies, and the zombies don't even act the same. This is simply a lighthearted entertaining show that isn't trying to put on airs. The characters are all funny and lovable, every episode has action, and the plot is constantly moving forward. No deep thought, just guns that go bang and zombies that go splat. Like I said, it's entertaining.… Expand
  52. ZNation
    Mar 15, 2016
    10
    I think that z nation is the best show in the planet. This show is awesome and just my kind of show because I like guts and bloody action. It is one of the most exciting show on earth.
  53. Daminvs
    May 25, 2016
    10
    Amazing show. I'm not really a series kind of person but I loved this. It reminds me of those feel good, but action packed series of the 90s like the A-Team and Star Trek and with a few more series, I'm certain Z-Nation will become equally a cult classic
  54. roguenuke
    Jun 24, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Really, this is a good show. I'm not really a zombie fan (they scare the crap out of me), but like when there is some humor involved and action. I also like the hope aspect of this show, no matter how far out of reach logic says it really is. There are some parts that make me wince, especially anything dealing with radiation (seriously guys I hope you're just trying to appease some of the ignorant masses with "glowing" = radiation).
    And unlike many reviews I've read, the characters are really easy to care for, especially after you get into the show a few episodes.
    I've only watched a couple of episodes of the first season of TWD, and it was just so much drama. I don't want that much drama when I watch these shows, I want something more. Nothing but mindless action and stupidity isn't really it for me either. This show has found a way to balance these well and throw in some comedy and cheesiness (love my cheese) to round it out.    … Expand
  55. GamerGirl_Aims
    Sep 20, 2016
    10
    Best zombies show EVER!!! This TV show is awesome, it always has an exciting plot for each episode. The series is full of suspense and drama... And more than a few jokes to make the characters more loveable. I highly recommend this show to any zombie lovers (I am starting to like it more than the walking dead). Z Nation RULES!!!

Awards & Rankings

13
#13 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
12
#12 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
48

Mixed or average reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 11
  3. Negative: 3 out of 11
  1. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Tim Goodman
    Sep 15, 2014
    60
    As a B-level entry it’s at least entertaining, and if some of the sillier aspects of the pilot can be improved on could be one of those mindless entertainment options we all need now and again.
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  2. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    Sep 12, 2014
    30
    While Z Nation (or as I prefer to think of it, The Running Dead) doesn't exactly play the gory low-budget mayhem for campy laughter, it's hard not to roll, or possibly cover, one's eyes at something this familiar and deeply shallow, with casting mostly so generic--with the exception of Lost's Harold Perrineau as a Delta Force soldier barking orders--that they're all so much chum in this kill-or-be-eaten apocalypse.
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  3. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: Mike Hale
    Sep 11, 2014
    50
    It most closely resembles the assembly-line Hollywood westerns that provide the model for the zombie genre.... The mundanely self-aware screenplay includes references to the zompocalypse and lines like “God, I hate moral dilemmas.”
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