Best Film of 2004

Rating: 10/10 (7 July 2005)

Shaun of the Dead was simply one of the best films of 2004 and one of the best zombie films ever to be put to celluloid. Everything in the movies works. The acting is top notch without relying on any big Hollywood heavyweights (well, at least not big names to us uncultured American swine). The special effects/make up were great too, all the zombies look pretty convincing (not that I've had the misfortune of ever meeting a real zombie). Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg's script is what really carries the film. The cyclical nature of the dialogue, the subtle references to other films, and the flat out funny moments elevate this movie from a standard zombie film to a movie unique among its genre. The overall running length of the film (about 100 minutes) is essentially faultless; the film is long enough to tell a complete, logically flowing, self-contained story but short enough to never drag. Wright's discreet direction adds another dimension to the film; with everyone minor character or event returning or being referenced at one point another. Shaun of the Dead also doesn't lose appeal in repeated viewings; if anything it strengthens the movie. A small detail, for example Ed's phone call in the first scene at Shaun, Pete, and Ed's house and the conversation the kid has on his phone at Shaun's work place, could be overlooked quite easily the first time around. Shaun of the Dead became an instant cult-classic in the states upon its limited release in theaters, and will probably stay that way, but deservedly so. While I haven't found anyone I know personally who dislikes the movie, its understandable why it didn't have major box-office appeal (British film satirizing/making a homage to a particular niche of the movie-going audience isn't exactly financial gold). Overall, if you like comedy and like zombies see this movie now, even if you've seen it, see it again.