Brad Pitt’s Globe-Spanning Horror Movie Is Having A Second Life On Netflix

Brad Pitt's World War Z is in the top ten most-watched movies on Netflix.

By Chad Langen | Updated

Brad Pitt is just as relevant as ever, having recently starred in David Leitch’s high-octane action flick Bullet Train and the historical dramedy Babylon, from acclaimed filmmaker Damien Chazelle. With that said, one of the famed actor’s older films, World War Z, is receiving some renewed attention thanks to Netflix. According to Flix Patrol, the fast-paced horror picture is one of the top ten movies on the streaming service.

Released in 2013, World War Z stars Brad Pitt as a former United Nations investigator named Gerry Lane. The film is based on the 2006 novel of the same name by Max Brooks and follows Lane as he travels the globe in search of a way to stop a fast-spreading zombie outbreak. The movie features an ensemble cast, including Mireille Enos, Daniella Kertesz, and James Badge Dale, all whom play key roles in the action-packed plot.

Since its release, World War Z has become a staple of the zombie film genre. The movie’s innovative take on the zombie apocalypse has earned it critical acclaim, as well as a devoted fan base. Although the non-stop action gets to be a little much at times, complex characters like Brad Pitt’s Gerry Lane help bring emotional depth to the rapidly unfolding narrative.

World War Z was a massive hit at the box office, earning over $540 million globally. The film opened at number two in the United States, behind Monsters University, and went on to become the highest-grossing zombie movie of all time. Brad Pitt’s star power undoubtedly helped propel the genre flick to box office success.

Despite its financial success, World War Z had a tumultuous production history, to say the least. The film underwent numerous reshoots and rewrites, leading to a ballooning budget and production delays. Fortunately, Brad Pitt’s dedication to the project and leadership on set helped guide the film to completion.

Brad Pitt’s involvement in World War Z extended beyond his on-screen performance. The Oscar-winning actor also served as a producer on the film, using his clout to bring the project to fruition. Pitt’s production company, Plan B Entertainment, has been involved in the production of several other critically acclaimed movies, including Moonlight, 12 Years a Slave, and the recent biographical romantic drama Blonde, starring Ana de Armas.

As World War Z continues to enjoy a second life on Netflix, fans are eagerly awaiting news of a sequel. Despite rumors of a follow-up, the film’s production has been stalled for years. With the movie’s resurgence on streaming, there may be renewed interest in a potential sequel.

Until then, Brad Pitt will next headline the thriller Wolves, from Spider-Man director Jon Watts. Also starring George Clooney, Amy Ryan, and Austin Abrams, the film will follow two lone wolf fixers who are assigned to the same job. The upcoming picture is currently in production, and there’s no word on when it will arrive in theaters.

Further out, Brad Pitt is attached to star in an untitled sports film, from Top Gun: Maverick director Joseph Kosinski. The film will follow a Formula One driver who comes out of retirement to mentor and team with a young driver. The project is in the very early stage of development.