Zombieland is the latest Zombie movie out there. So how does it fair as a movie? Is it your standard zombie horror movie? I am delighted to say that no, it is not. Zombieland is a Zombie movie at times, but at times it just becomes a nice little comedy about surviving a world where almost every one else is dead. This movie combines everything you expect from your typical zombie movie, with the best parts of a favorite comedy. Because that is what this movie is. A comedy. And a great one at that.
Now when you hear the words "Zombie Movie" you would expect a movie where people are constantly on the run from Zombies that you see at least once every 5 minutes, with carnage and blood bath galore. Thankfully, this movie separates itself from the traditions and cliches. In fact, while watching, their seemed to be whole 30 minutes stretches where not a single Zombie is seen. While usually this would be the worst part of the movie, Zombieland makes the best of these moments, or makes these the best moments, depending on your point of view. Comedy runs abound when you command the 4 main characters and their interactions with the post-apocalyptic world.
Now, the 4 characters seems to start out as sterotypes. Columbus was your typical secluded (pre-Zombie Day) no friends, virgin nerd. Tallahassee is your Gun-Toting, multi-weapon wielding, tough guy in the business of kicking ass. And Little Rock and Wichita are two girls who depend only on themselves conning others to get what they want. However, most of these stereotypes don't last long. Soon after we meet Tallahassee, we learn that his one goal in this world is to find a Twinkie. Colombus is actually adept at surviving in the Post-Zombie world. And I would go on, but that starts to spoil the movie.
Now where this movie really shines is the humour. I've only slightly brushed upon this, but this is (imo) what differentiates this from most Zombie moves and will make this a classic for years to come. Sticking the aforementioned 4 people in a car together traveling around the country is a great way to have some interactions, especially when you have the 12 year old girl and the old adult talking to each other about different things from their generations. In fact, from the opening montage till the ending scene, you and your friends will be roaring in laughter.
Overall - Zombieland delivers to all it's main target audiences. With Zombies acting like Zombies, humour that will leave you talking on the ride home from the theater (which is where you SHOULD be seeing it), and even a slight bit of romantic comedy (not spoilers! It's hinted at in the previews!), Zombieland is a move that will please even those who never were fans of Zombie anything. (like myself) - 9.5/10
