To my knowledge, H.P. Lovecraft hasn't really captured cinema the same way Poe or King have. And on another note, zombies are typically one-dimensional and bland as all hell, no matter how terrifying they might be. However, 1985's Re-Animator breaks the mold and sets the Lovecraft tone very well.
While only loosely based on the 1922 short story by Lovecraft, I'd say that there is no better film based on his work made by a major studio in existence, at least not yet. No, this film doesn't feature Cthulhu, but don't turn away just yet. Lovecraft created other characters besides him, of course.
The story follows Herbert West, a medical student who creates a serum that can bring the dead back to life. The serum works, but it certainly isn't perfect. The bodies brought back to life are insane monsters, a shell of who they once were.
Herbert is only motivated by his work, and stops at nothing to find test subjects, even if he has to kill them himself. What makes Herbert West a good character is his total lack of empathy. He is very much a more modern version of Victor Frankenstein. However, even Victor Frankenstein had empathy and knew when to stop with his creations. Herbert West is only motivated by discovery, but again, goes to horrible lengths to complete his research.
Between Herbert West and the zombies are our protagonists, Dan and Megan. Herbert is cruel and impatient to them, further showing his lack of humanity. Dan and Megan seem to be the only sane characters, and we see a good deal of the movie through their eyes, which is what makes it so horrifying to watch at some points.
However, what totally steals the show are the special effects. Some of them range from easy party tricks to Tom Savini levels of expertise and horror. I refuse to show you any of them, because it would do this movie a gigantic injustice. I know, the story is what's most important, but the zombie gore in this movie is only second to movies that include "Of the Dead" in their titles.
If you'd like to see a amazing zombie movie with a good story, check this one out. Jack's Pile of Pages gives this an 8/10.
Final Thought: Don't worry, we'll get to Cthulhu soon.
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