Watching on Wednesday: Shaun of the Dead

Title: Shaun of the Dead
Type: Movie
Age Group: Teens +
Release Year: 2004
My Rating: 4.5/5

Shaun (Simon Pegg) lives a life that is less than super in any way. I mean, stuck with a roommate that does nothing but play videogames all day and being an appliance salesman doesn't exactly live up to much. He has to also deal with his ex-girlfriend, Liz (Kate Ashfield), and his stepfather, Philip (Bill Nighy), whom he both has a shaky relationship with.

When things can't get any duller or more problematic than it already is, Shaun discovers (a little late) that everyone has turned into zombies because of a virus! Devising a plan to save his mom and ex from the horror, Shaun sets out with roommate, Ed (Nick Frost), to seize a very zombified day with rofl moments and head-bashing action!

Ah, zombie comedies. There are a few and rare that exist in the entertainment world (or maybe it's just me?). Shaun of the Dead definitely delivers the laughter and zombie goodness in one go. In the beginning, it might take a few minutes to adjust to the British talk for those who are not used to it. Once adapted to, you will be enjoying the different antics they throw out at the audience.

It would have been better if they expanded their location of filming. The movie set is predominately at Simon's flat and his favourite pub, The Winchester. A change of scenery, like out in another city, would have been a nice instead of staying within one town.

I think Simon and Nick nailed their roles pretty well; all of the other actors were alright since their characters weren't as important. I did think however a couple of characters, like Liz's friends, seemed a bit unnecessary to the cast. They didn't contribute much to the overall story as they were just there in the background.

The makeup made pretty convincing zombies, although you don't see much gore and blood-shed. It is nothing to the likes of Resident Evil, considering it is comedy. But still, it worked!

So folks, if you are in need of a Halloween-y movie or just wants something to watch, check out Shaun of the Dead! (Even if you are not into zombies!)