Zombies were never so much fun.

Rating: 9/10 (20 March 2004)

Though I haven't seen the original (but do intend to soon), I was drawn to this movie like the zombies to the mall. The premise, people seeking refuge in a mall from a zombie epidemic, is a very intriguing one. Normally, I'm not one for zombie films (The Romero's and the Raimi's being the exceptions). But I found this to be a very entertaining film. It is by no means scary or frightening, but it does have its share of creepy moments. Compared to 28 Days Later, this film seems to be going more for audience gratification, rather than the classiness of independent films. In this aspect, Dawn of the Dead delivers time and again. There's a great sequence involving celebrity look-alike zombies; though I won't ruin it for anyone. The movie's got a good sense of what it's trying to accomplish. Director Zack Snyder and co. intend to bring George Romero's 1978 classic a modern touch, for a modern audience. More often than not, the film works. The plot (though altered) remains viable after 25 or so years. Also, Dawn of the Dead has an excellent sense of humor. Occasionally, the film seems to be mocking the whole concept of the end of the world. Great action, great tunes (you ain't heard nothing 'til you've heard "Down With the Sickness" performed by a lounge singer), lots of fun. I really enjoyed this film. 8/10.