The Dead

   

     Happy Halloween!  This is my absolute favorite holiday.  Starting November 1st I, get a bit depressed because I know my 24hour horror marathon won't be on AMC anymore.  And tis the season to be playing Rambo from now on.  UGH.  We didn't do anything this year except go to SeaWorld a couple of weekends ago. I thoroughly enjoyed their Halloween Scarefest.

      So, I'm a bit of an insomniac and knew I would be up late. I decided to go to Redbox and rent a movie.  I picked out a movie called The Dead.  I figured it would be a horrible B movie like a lot of zombie movies. Boy, was I wrong. I have to say that I enjoy just about any zombie movie regardless of quality.  This one really surprised me though.

     This zombie flick takes place in Africa. There is no background story to really know how the outbreak occurred and how far along it is. One can gather that it is probably fairly early in the ordeal but you aren't sure what countries, outside Africa, are effected.  

     The zombies in this film are different from your normal zombies.  It's obvious that the virus or zombification is spread by bites.  Their eyes are what is really interesting and separates them apart from other people. Their eyes are a very light and electrifying blue that could be compared to some vampires in certain movies.  These zombies also aren't very decomposed looking.  They are quicker and almost seem more intelligent than most zombies.  These zombies honestly don't look like they are torn apart before they turn.  Some have a few puncture wounds and broken bones, but the ones that have turned really only have a small wound.  This is very different compared to a George A. Romero or The Walking Dead type zombie.  I think this is the only part of the movie that doesn't come together so well.  Whenever you see one of these zombies eating a human they seem to chew for a while, tear into the person a bit and then move on.  It isn't a gore fest.  Maybe these zombies don't have the hunger level or maybe they are just trying to spread the virus or whatever this thing is.

     If I had two people over, one wanting to watch a zombie flick, the other wanting a movie with a good story and purpose, I'd have to recommend this movie.  It has all the classic elements that a zombie horror film lover will get excited for. but it also has a really good plot and purpose.  The overall message is one of hope.  I'm not saying this film didn't have a couple of moments that were like uhh really guys.  But, I thoroughly enjoyed this film and it has to go in my top 5 favorite zombie films of all time!  Check it out and let me know what you think!

WARNING: There are a couple scenes that will tear into your heart. Pun intended.