Monday 26 October 2009

Zombieland - Some Thoughts

Really - if you haven't seen this yet then you really should. I rarely start reviews or rather commentary in such a way, but Zombieland is the exception that proves the rule that I should do so more often and give a direct suggestion.

Spoiler alert!
The world has become a titular Zombieland, leaving poor Jesse Eisenberg confused, worried and full of not a little bit of angst. He sets out to see his parents and smashes a few zombie faces on the way, before bumping into Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), Witchita and Little Rock (the two females of the group). They fight zombies, have adventures and bump into one of the greatest (and weirdest) cameo roles of all time. As I've said spoiler alert, you won't mind me saying that the sequence with Bill Murray is worth the price of admission alone - especially his rather nasty fate!

Moving on from spoiler territory, the greatest asset of the film is the tone. It's wonderful, simply put. Drama, comedy, action, you name it, it's all in there. The scripting is tight and the elements of the film blend wonderfully well together, making it seem like a great mix of The Wonder Years (Jesse Eisenberg's voiceover), Dawn of the Dead and Superbad (gross out comedy moments).

Zombieland is a movie that, taking each element separately, is merely average. However, thanks to various elements being blended so well, it really goes work. The characters are on the whole likeable though kudos has to go to Woody Harrelson for his turn as Tallahasee. If you were trapped in Z(ee)land, you'd want him by your side. A badass and man who knows how to have fun - although he does suffer from a candy obsession in the form of Twinkies.

Ultimately, don't expect Zombieland to tax your brain cells - but do expect it to provide some wonderful entertainment that gives many nods to the genre and provides a whole lot of laughs.

**** 4/5

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