With October comes the annual surge of horror movies old and new. This time, Prime Video dropped a surprise that no one saw coming: the trailer for “Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End,” an adaptation of Manel Loureiro’s novel “Apocalypse Z.”

Set against the backdrop of a rapidly deteriorating world, the story follows a lawyer, Artemis, in Spain, who documents his survival in a personal diary. An unstoppable virus has swept across the globe, turning humans into ravenous zombies. Amid the chaos, Artemis navigates not only the perils of a society collapsing but also the challenges of isolation, with only his cat for companionship.

What’s interesting is how this novel has been received over the years. Some horror fans have labeled it as one of the worst zombie novels, citing clichés and a lack of originality. Yet, a quick glance at Amazon’s reviews tells a different story.

Many readers praise Loureiro’s take on the genre, appreciating the realistic portrayal of a world in crisis and the reflective journey of the main character. This contrast of opinions perhaps adds to the appeal of the upcoming film.

The zombie genre has seen its fair share of highs and lows. Max Brooks’ “World War Z” in 2006 revived interest, leading to numerous novels that explored survival in undead-infested worlds. However, with so many similar stories, it’s nice—and somewhat surprising—to see “Apocalypse Z” getting its moment in the spotlight.

The decision to adapt this particular novel might raise eyebrows, especially given its mixed reception among hardcore horror fans. But perhaps that’s precisely why it’s an exciting addition to this year’s Halloween lineup. It offers a different perspective—a more personal look at the apocalypse, rather than what we’re accustomed to.

The trailer hints at a film that stays true to the novel’s essence: a solitary journey through desolation, the struggle to maintain humanity, and the small comforts that keep us going—even if it’s just the presence of a loyal feline friend. The Spanish setting adds a unique flavor, distancing it from the typical American-centric zombie plot.

“Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End” Whether you’re a fan of the book, a zombie enthusiast, or just looking for something new to watch, this film might just offer a somewhat different take on a familiar theme.

Grab your popcorn—and your cat—the zombie apocalypse begins on October 31st, exclusively on Prime Video.