I selfhost DNS as well, but I just use plain old bind zone files and it works well enough across a bunch of domains (and RFC2136 for my dynamic IP at home) that I haven't bothered to look into database stored records. I just need to remember the pesky serial number so that the changes get properly replicated :)
Not the parent, but I've seen the movie and read the book. I think there are a few gaps in the movie that's explained by the book, but there are some artistic freedom as well between the book and the film.
I would recommend reading the book first at least.