Shaun of the Dead is a movie that I didn't really pay much attention to when it was in theaters last Fall; it had some buzz and if I recall correctly received some pretty decent reviews, but it just came and went and that was it. When I saw the film was now on DVD, I was intrigued, especially with a tag-line that reads, "A smash hit romantic comedy. With Zombies."

What I can say with a great degree of confidence is that Shaun of the Dead is like no other movie you've ever seen. Put simply, the story follows a guy named Shaun who's a bit of a deadbeat and constantly hangs out with his friend who seems to be holding him back. As a result, his girlfriend decides to end the relationship, and this all happens amidst the city's citizens being transformed into zombies.

Sounds strange? It is. But did I mention the film is also quite hilarious? As the zombies begin to take over the city, Shaun and his buddy are so obtuse that they don't even notice until the situation literally confronts them head-on (and even then it takes a few minutes). What ensues is a battle to survive, albeit a very funny battle.

You know how when something physically horrible happens to someone and even though it looks painful you can't help but laugh? (Don't tell me I'm alone here - there's a reason America's Funniest Home Videos is still on the air). This film taps directly into that spirit, and if you're open to it you'll have a good time.

Posted January 08, 2005 | link