I think in a past life I was a doomsday survivalist, because you just have to say “apocalypse” and my ears perk up with interest. The November/December issue of “Diabolique” is all about the apocalypse, and how it’s been depicted through various forms of film, television, and literature. And it’s not a slapdash compilation of articles. As is the case with “Diabolique” the articles about the popularity of apocalyptic entertainment in today’s media are beautifully written and insightful. And you can’t really scoff at their dedication to “28 Days Later” and Richard Matheson.
Sadly, the great author Richard Matheson died this year, and “Diabolique” pays tribute to the author and arguably his most famous novel “I Am Legend.” Writer James Gracey pens “From Alpha to Omega,” discussing Matheson’s influential novel “I Am Legend” and its various cinematic adaptations. Matheson of course writes off the cinematic versions, even displaying annoyance at “The Last Man on Earth” which is the most faithful adaptation of the novel to date. There’s also some exploration in to the recurring themes of Matheson’s stories concerning alienation and paranoia, and why Hollywood is so scared to create a loyal version of his novel for film audiences.
Alexandra West gives a great review for “28 Days Later,” exploring how it influenced modern zombie films, and its social undertones. “Surviving the Times” by Colin McCracken is a great retrospective on the classic apocalyptic film “A Boy and His Dog,” and its themes of rebuilding society, and the damages civilization can cause. “Moody’s Blues” by Chris Haddock is a great article about apocalyptic fiction author David Moody, and how he’s managed to rise in popularity with his hit books about the end of the world. “2013 is the new 2012” is a great look at the rise in apocalyptic pop culture, exploring films like “Oblivion,” and “Elysium” to the appeal of hit shows like “The Walking Dead.”
The article “Confronting Mortality” profiles special effects artist Remy Couture whose realistic photo shoots of violence and gore caused him to be arrested and questioned on the possibility of murder. “Say My Name” is a great profile of artist Arthur Suydam whose depictions of rotten zombies have become immensely popular, and used in books like “Marvel Zombies,” and “The Walking Dead.” Finally, the article “Flesh for Thought” profiles the zombie drama “Before Dawn,” it’s the film that made waves in the festival circuit and is now coming to America. Subscribe to “Diabolique Magazine” today!