subtle, sublime

Rating: 8/10 (27 April 2007)

I finally saw this after many people had built it up for me, and I'm happy to report that it was all I ever hoped it could be. Shaun of the Dead is a truly original style of film. It is not a parody, though it is funny and does play with references to some well-known horror films. It is a fresh, creative, zombie story in its own right, and simultaneously a comedy. The nods to previous zombie movies are clever and come naturally, unlike how excruciatingly forced they are in lesser films like the "Scary Movie" franchise. The characters are all very honest, real, and have distinct personalities. Most of the film takes place in the day time, with the main characters handling the situation quite rationally. It is a fantastically successful new spin on things, and highly recommended.