Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4: Dawn of the Vampires (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
It’s 2025, and against all odds, Disney Channel’s most persistent undead franchise is back. Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4: Dawn of the Vampires brings us another supernatural mashup, this time with bloodthirsty (but family-friendly) vampires and mysterious “Daywalkers.” The film follows Zed and Addison as they stumble into a monster-fueled feud during a summer road trip.
But with the franchise now four movies deep, one must ask: Is this a worthy continuation or just another cash grab with glowy eyes and musical clichés?
Let’s dig in.
Plot Recap: Zed, Addison, and the New Monster Divide
After their first year of college, Zed and Addison embark on a road trip that turns unexpectedly weird. Their detour lands them in the monster-filled territories of Sunnyside and Shadyside, where two new supernatural factions—the “Daywalkers” and the “Vampires”—are at odds over a mystical resource known as the Blood Fruit.
Suddenly, Zed and Addison are thrust into counselor roles at a supernatural summer camp. With help from returning favorites Eliza and Willa, they must mediate peace between new leads Nova and Victor before a bigger threat emerges.
The setup is classic Disney Channel: conflict, unity, a sprinkling of social metaphors, and, of course, musical numbers to save the day.
The Good: Why Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4 Still Works (Mostly)
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The Original Cast Still Shines: Milo Manheim (Zed) and Meg Donnelly (Addison) are the soul of this universe. Their chemistry, nostalgia, and musical consistency help carry the weight of an increasingly stretched storyline.
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Musical Highlights: While not all songs land, the Someday reprise offers emotional resonance. Plus, the surprise tap number (odd but fun) gives off peak “camp musical” vibes.
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Visual Charm & Campiness: Director Paul Hoen continues to embrace the series’ bright colors, choreographed group dances, and playful effects. It’s clearly a TV movie, but one that knows its identity and leans into it unapologetically.
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Victor & Nova Bring Fresh Energy: New leads Malachi Barton and Freya Skye handle their roles admirably, stepping into a world built by Zed and Addison without stepping over them. They’re charming, likable, and might just carry the torch forward.
The Bad: Is the Magic Running Dry?
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Tired Tropes & Messy Writing: There’s only so many times you can repeat “monsters fight > sing > unite” before it loses impact. The writing here teeters between on-the-nose allegory and formulaic dialogue.
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Inconsistent Tone & Characters: Characters jump from enemies to allies with whiplash speed, which weakens emotional stakes. Some viewers felt this inconsistency undermined the message of unity.
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Lackluster Worldbuilding: Despite intriguing new factions, Vampires and Daywalkers feel underdeveloped. Glowy eyes and fangs ≠ lore. What are Daywalkers, really? And where’s the vampire depth?
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Queerbaiting Criticism Continues: Some fans lament Disney’s continued hesitation to fully embrace LGBTQ+ narratives. Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4 hints at inclusivity but pulls back before committing—again.
Where to Watch Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4 Online in the U.S.
Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4: Dawn of the Vampires is available for streaming and purchase on multiple platforms:
Stream on Subscription Services:
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Disney+ (Official Streaming Home)
All four Z-O-M-B-I-E-S movies are available here. A must-watch for Disney Channel fans.
Buy/Rent Options (Streaming Services):
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Google Play Movies
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Vudu
Each platform offers standard and HD versions, typically priced around $3.99 for rent and $14.99 for purchase.
Audience Reactions: A Mixed Undead Bag
The online response to Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4 ranges from delighted nostalgia to outright frustration:
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“I laughed twice. One good song. Cute cast. Cringe writing.”
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“A delightfully campy TV movie. Not perfect, but still fun.”
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“Victor and Nova deserve better. Where’s the werewolf or vampire lore?”
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“Honestly surprised it wasn’t worse.”
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“Someday reprise still gets me—every single time.”
If you’re here for camp, dance numbers, and some heart, you’ll likely find Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4 “good enough.” If you expected a reinvention or depth? This may feel like another missed opportunity.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Your Time?
Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4: Dawn of the Vampires delivers what it promises: energetic musical numbers, a few laughs, a lot of glowy-eyed monsters, and a sprinkle of nostalgic charm. While it doesn’t revolutionize the franchise or offer deep thematic substance, it’s still an enjoyable ride for longtime fans.
For families, fans of the franchise, or those who enjoy a quirky, colorful musical, it’s a worthwhile watch—especially if you already subscribe to Disney+.
Conclusion: A Bittersweet Farewell… or Just the Beginning?
While this entry feels like a “legacy” film—possibly wrapping up the Zed & Addison arc—it also sets the stage for something new. With rumors of mermaids on the horizon, it seems Disney isn’t ready to bury this franchise just yet.
And maybe that’s okay. In a world full of gritty reboots and realism, there’s something comforting about a musical universe where every problem can be solved with a dance break and a catchy chorus.
Ready to experience the next chapter in the undead saga?
Watch Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4 on Disney+ Now
Rent or Buy on Amazon Prime Video
Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments—Team Nova or Team Victor?
