About the film
Black Zombie is a 2026 Canadian documentary film written and directed by Maya Annik Bedward. It examines the roots of zombie mythology in Haitian Vodou and traces how the figure changed in meaning. The film follows a path from a folkloric metaphor for slavery to a horror and monster-fiction trope, showing how that transformation has distorted and disrupted Black history.
Its focus connects folklore, slavery, horror imagery and the treatment of Black history. With Bedward as both writer and director, the film centers on the cultural history behind a familiar horror figure rather than presenting it only as monster fiction. The film is listed as a documentary film from Canada, released in 2026.
Who it is for
It may suit viewers interested in Haitian Vodou, the history of zombie mythology, and the relationship between horror fiction and Black history.
Worth knowing
- Directed and written by Maya Annik Bedward
- Focuses on Haitian Vodou and zombie mythology
- Connects horror tropes with Black history
- Canadian documentary released in 2026
Before you press play
- No runtime is listed
- No language is listed
The short of it
Black Zombie offers a historical perspective on the zombie figure, centering its roots in Haitian Vodou and its changing place in horror culture. Its stated subject also makes the film relevant to viewers exploring how such tropes affect Black history.