Brad's All-Time Fave Films: #9

Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Liz: It's just that with Ed here, it's no wonder I bring my flatmates out, and then that only exacerbates things.
Shaun: What do you mean?
Liz: Well you guys hardly get on, do you?
Shaun: No, what does 'exacerbate' mean?

This is just one of the numerous examples of the droll with and humour to be found in my #9 film, Shaun of the Dead. While it sounds odd to label this movie as a comedy/horror film, that's exactly what it is. Or maybe more precisely, a satire of horror movies, but the violence is surprisingly graphic and not surprisingly prevalent.

That's not to take away from the movie, though. Quite the opposite, actually. It's like watching a good Simpsons episode; the more you know about the genre (horror), the more you appreciate all of the jokes within. To enjoy it to its highest extentent does take a certain appreciation of the dry British humour, but even a basic familiarity with horror/survivalist/zombie genres will be more than enough to allow you to enjoy it.

As far as plot goes, the movie follows a very standard horror plot (again, part of what makes it funny). Zombies get loose and want to bite/eat people that aren't zombies, and the remaining group of survivors tries to stay alive, invariably ending up at some sort of stronghold to wait for the cavalry. Of course a few of the group are munched along the way (enter the gore), but if we didn't want a few to go, would we see movies in this genre? Simon Pegg is great as "Shaun", but don't underestimate Nick Frost as "Ed," Shaun's hapless friend, who actually supplies most of the jokes.

Not surprisingly, I highly recommend this movie, and it's new companion piece, "Hot Fuzz", which similarly lampoons the police/buddy picture genre.