“Lust of the Dead 2” is a 2013 Japanese horror exploitation film directed by Naoyuki Tomomatsu. It is the second installment in the “Rape Zombie” series, which blends horror, eroticism, and dystopian themes. The film continues the storyline from the first part, where a mysterious virus turns men into aggressive, sex-obsessed zombies.
Unlike traditional zombie movies, “luѕт оf тне dеаd 2” focuses heavily on gender-based survival. It portrays a world where women struggle to escape both the undead and uninfected men who exploit the chaotic situation. The movie’s setting is primarily Akihabara, known for its pop culture and tech industries.
This film is notorious for its explicit content and has sparked intense debates regarding its themes. While some viewers appreciate its unique take on apocalyptic horror, others strongly criticize its portrayal of women and violence.
Despite its low-budget production, the film has gained cult status in the niche horror community. It is often compared to Western exploitation films, but its execution remains distinctly Japanese.
Background and Development
Naoyuki Tomomatsu, a seasoned director of low-budget horror and pinku films, helmed the project. He aimed to create a shocking yet marketable horror series, capitalizing on Japan’s B-movie audience.
The film was produced with limited financial resources, leading to the reuse of scenes from the first movie. This is a common technique in low-budget sequels to reduce production costs. Despite these constraints, the film still delivers new plot elements.
The concept of “luѕт оf тне dеаd 2” draws inspiration from classic zombie films like “Dawn of the Dead” but shifts the focus from traditional undead horror to a socially-driven narrative. The storyline heavily critiques gender dynamics, power struggles, and survival ethics.
The movie was released in Japan’s underground film market, mainly targeting fans of extreme horror. Its availability outside Japan remains limited due to its controversial themes and explicit content.
Plot Summary
The story picks up immediately after the events of the first movie. The virus that transforms men into sex-crazed zombies continues to spread across Japan. Women survivors, including the main protagonist Asami, fight for their lives.
In Akihabara, a group of women attempts to build a safe haven, but their efforts are constantly threatened by both zombies and the uninfected men who seek control over them. The military’s involvement only worsens the situation, leading to chaotic battles and desperate survival tactics.
Key Plot Points
- Asami and her allies try to escape to safety but face multiple threats.
- Zombies are not the only danger—human survivors become equally dangerous.
- The virus continues to mutate, leading to unexpected twists in the story.
- The film ends on a cliffhanger, setting up the next sequel.
A notable aspect of “luѕт оf тне dеаd 2” is its heavy use of recycled footage. This has been criticized for making the film feel repetitive, but some fans argue that it enhances continuity.
Themes and Controversial Elements
The film’s most debated aspect is its graphic depiction of sexual violence. Unlike traditional zombie horror, the primary fear factor here is not just the undead but human predators as well.
Key Themes in “luѕт оf тне dеаd 2”
| Theme | Explanation |
| Survival Horror | The struggle of women to escape both zombies and human threats. |
| Gender Dynamics | A world where power shifts due to the virus, leaving women vulnerable. |
| Exploitation Horror | Intentionally shocking scenes designed to provoke reactions. |
| Dystopian Fear | Society collapses as morality and order break down. |
While the film explores themes of power and survival, it has been strongly criticized for excessive erotic violence. Many critics argue that it crosses ethical boundaries, while others see it as an extreme form of artistic expression.
Despite the backlash, the movie remains popular in underground horror circles. It appeals to audiences who seek unconventional, taboo-challenging narratives.
Reception and Criticism
“Lust of the Dead 2” received generally negative reviews from mainstream critics but has a cult following among exploitation horror fans.
Some viewers appreciate its bold storytelling, while others criticize its repetitive structure and low-budget execution. The film’s IMDb rating is 3.4/10, reflecting its polarizing nature.
Positive Aspects
- Unique take on the zombie genre
- Interesting dystopian themes
- Cult status among niche horror fans
Criticisms
- Excessive use of recycled footage
- Weak special effects and cinematography
- Uncomfortable and disturbing themes
The film is often compared to Western exploitation cinema, such as the “I Spit on Your Grave” series. However, its execution is more chaotic and experimental.
Cinematic Aspects
Naoyuki Tomomatsu’s direction leans towards shock value over storytelling. The film reuses scenes from the first movie, leading to criticism about lazy filmmaking.
The cinematography is low-budget, with minimal visual effects. The sound design is basic, relying on repetitive horror cues to create tension.
Despite these flaws, the movie still retains a distinct visual style, using dark lighting and claustrophobic settings to build fear. It does not rely on traditional zombie horror tropes but instead blends dystopian terror with sexual horror.
Impact on the Horror Genre
The “luѕт оf тне dеаd” series remains a unique experiment within the horror exploitation genre. It has influenced other low-budget Japanese horror films, but its controversial themes limit its mainstream appeal.
While it has not gained significant international recognition, it serves as an example of how extreme cinema pushes boundaries. The film is often discussed in horror forums, analyzing its ethical implications and cinematic impact.
Despite its polarizing reception, the franchise continues, with sequels expanding the storyline. Its cult status ensures that it remains a topic of discussion among extreme horror fans.
Final Thoughts and Viewer Advisory
“Lust of the Dead 2” is not a film for everyone. It is explicit, disturbing, and highly controversial. However, for fans of exploitation horror, it provides a unique and shocking viewing experience.
The movie’s themes of survival, gender power struggles, and dystopian horror make it a complex but problematic film. While some argue that it criticizes toxic masculinity, others see it as an unethical portrayal of violence.
Viewers should approach this film with caution. It is recommended only for those who are comfortable with extreme horror cinema. Those seeking a traditional zombie movie should look elsewhere.
For those interested in cult horror films, “luѕт оf тне dеаd 2” is a notable but highly controversial addition to the genre.
FAQs
Is “Lust of the Dead 2” a direct sequel to the first movie?
Yes, it continues the storyline from the first film, using both new footage and recycled scenes to maintain continuity.
Why is “Lust of the Dead 2” controversial?
It features extreme themes of sexual violence and exploitation, making it highly debated among horror and exploitation film fans.
Where can I legally watch “Lust of the Dead 2”?
The film is available on niche horror streaming platforms and DVD but may be restricted in certain countries due to its content.
How does “Lust of the Dead 2” differ from typical zombie movies?
Unlike traditional zombie horror, it focuses more on gender dynamics and human predation rather than just undead survival.
Is “Lust of the Dead 2” suitable for all horror fans?
No, it is intended for mature audiences who are comfortable with extreme horror and exploitation cinema.
