The Aftermath (1982 film)
The Aftermath (also known as Zombie Aftermath) is a 1982 science fiction, horror, and action independent film directed by Steve Barkett. While not prosecuted for obscenity, the film was seized and confiscated in the UK under Section 3 of the Obscene Publications Act 1959 during the video nasty panic Plot. Three astronauts return to Earth after a nuclear holocaust (that also saw biological weapons used), although one dies in a crash landing. The two survivors, Newman (Steve Barkett) and Matthews, encounter some mutants before discovering that Los Angeles has been completely destroyed. Seeking shelter, the men  take refuge in an abandoned mansion. Newman later encounters a young boy, Chris, hiding in a museum with the curator (Forrest J Ackerman). Before the curator passes away from radiation poisoning, Newman takes Chris under his care. While out seeking supplies one day, Newman and Chris encounter Sarah, who is running from a gang of bandits led by Cutter (Sid Haig). After Sarah's murder, Newman decides to confront the gang at their desert wasteland hideout. After killing Cutter's gang, Newman is fatally wounded by the gang leader, who in turn is shot dead by Chris with a revolver . The boy then walks off alone before the credits roll. Release. The film was released in the United States on various VHS labels and in a special edition laserdisc release by the Roan Group. It was released in the UK with the alternate title "Zombie Aftermath" the film has been released in the United States by VCI ENTERTAINMENT. As of July 2021 it is available to stream on Plex Reception. Creature Feature gave the movie 3 out of five stars, finding it well written and directed. It also praised the musical score and effects. Fantastic Movie Musings was not as  kind, finding the movie script weak and the characters lacking complexity.