DanceoftheDead

Dance of the Dead (2008)

Let me start off by saying that this review isn’t for the Masters of Horror episode, but is for the independent zombie movie from director Gregg Bishop. The movie starts off in a graveyard that has a lovely view of the local power plant (pretty sure it is supposed to be nuclear). When the caretaker of the cemetery casually puts down the zombie clawing from below we know something is up. Then we are introduced to loveable slacker, smartass, but nice guy Jimmy. Along with his girlfriend Lindsey, the High School sci-fi club, a cute cheerleader, a garage band, and the slightly insane Coach/Gym Teacher (aren’t they all?) he will have to take on an army of the living dead to save the town, the school, and most importantly the prom.

Just to be clear here I’m not trying to make fun of the story or characters. I really like Dance of the Dead and what it brings to the screen. This is one of those strange times that a movie manages to take a genre and have fun with it, without making fun of it. The characters are familiar to fans of the horror genre (the geek, the hero, the girl who he gets back, the creep that makes an early exit, etc.) but are very likable when they are supposed to be. It helps that these characters are placed in a plot that moves along quickly and gets to the good stuff (the zombies of course) as fast as it can. Not only that but this is a very well written movie with intelligent dialogue that will have you laughing and rooting for the characters, who come off as real kids. At least until they start bashing in the skulls of their undead classmates and neighbors. But then who knows with kids these days, eh? But as much as I like the movie I’d have to say my favorite part is when the nerdy guy finally gets the cheerleader he has been pining over. Young zombies in love, ain’t it sweet?

It is a zombie movie so we have to talks some effects. Obviously there is going to be some CGI in the movie. But I was happy to see that it was kept to a minimum and isn’t that intrusive. What surprised me most about Dance of the Dead where how many practical effects that I saw and how nicely they did with the zombies. You get some cool feeding scenes and there should be enough of the red stuff to make gore hounds smile. Though it is important that everyone realize this isn’t a huge effects movie with tons of kills. But for what it is they do a good job.

So obviously I like Dance of the Dead. I sat down not expecting much and ended up having a good time with the movie. Now I will say that it does have a bit of a playful and light tone to it. This might bug hardcore zombie fans. But honestly guys lighten up and have some fun with the genre. Worth at least a rental, but I wouldn’t be surprised if you renters end up buying a copy for yourself.

3 out of 4

reviewed by John Shatzer