10 Most Paused Zombie Horror Movie Moments

Throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s, Italian cinema was ripe with unofficial and unconnected sequels to major horror staples. While several have gained fame – or infamy – over the years (such as 1975’s The Return of the Exorcist and 1980’s Alien 2: On Earth), virtually no other contender equals the cult classic stature of Lucio Fulci’s international breakthrough, Zombi 2.

Titled as such to cash in on the success of Zombi (the European edit of Dawn of the Dead), it follows an ill-fated crew on a Caribbean island that succumbs to a voodoo curse. In typical Fulci fashion, many memorable scenes – like the underwater zombie vs. shark fight – stick out. Yet, none rival the uncomfortable tragedy and torture of what befalls Paola Menard.

After telling her husband, David, that she wishes to leave (but to no avail since he wants to stay and do more research), she retreats to their beach house. That night, she hears a commotion outside; before long, a zombie breaks in and attacks her, resulting in her truly gnarly demise as the zombie slowly pushes her head into a piece of splintered wood.

Fulci’s successive shots of it gradually entering her eye are tense, horrifying, and abjectly fascinating.