Welcome to the Second Union 31 Days of Horror event! Every day leading up to Tuesday, October 31st, (starting Sunday, October 1st) we will post a review of one horror film.
Today’s Film: Shaun of the Dead. Enjoy!
Shaun of the Dead is directed by Edgar Wright and stars Simon Pegg as Shaun, a man clumsily getting through his days while constantly having to stick up for his lazy and overweight friend Ed. When a zombie outbreak occurs, Shaun must band together with his ex-Lucy, Ed, Lucy’s friends David and Dianne, and his mom to protect themselves while trying to make their way to the most secure place they know: The Winchester, a large pub that Shaun and Ed visit regularly.
It’s pretty clear that I love Edgar Wright’s writing and direction. I’ve already reviewed Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and Baby Driver, and this just amplifies what I think of him already. This film is a hilarious, vulgar, awesome work that nobody ever thought could work. Zombie films and comedy? Who would’ve thought that those would work together? Nobody. But they did, and do.
Shaun of the Dead‘s opening scene introduces all of the characters perfectly. Wright is a master of transitions, but the ones used in this scene are great. It also really gives us a developed idea of how these characters are in their daily lives, which most opening scenes can’t seem to do. And then there are the hilariously neat opening credits. I’m not a big zombie film guy, but this makes it all worth it. Plus, there’s a scene where Ed and Shaun throw old records at zombies!
The film doesn’t take itself very seriously, but there are some moments that really stick out and have an impact. An example of this is when Shaun’s mom is bitten and reveals herself. Shaun must shoot her in a moment full of emotion and it’s clear that he isn’t having an easy time recovering.
THE VERDICT
Shaun of the Dead is funny, weird, and awesome. While horror-comedy doesn’t always work, it sure does here. With perfect writing, a great cast, and moments of tenseness and emotion, this film succeeds on all levels. I’m going to give it an A+.
Shaun of the Dead stars Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Kate Ashfield, Lucy Davis, Dylan Moran, Penelope Wilton, Bill Nighy. Directed by Edgar Wright.
