The story follows the titular Shaun (Simon Pegg) as the deficiencies in his life are brought to the forefront by the sudden, but seemingly inevitable breakup with his girlfriend. Whilst drowning his sorrows his best friend Ed (Nick Frost) strange things begin to happen, and before they know it, they’re in the middle of a full-blown zombie apocalypse, and it becomes a race to find his ‘ex’ and friends and make their way to the only safety they know, the local pub The Winchester.
Fans of Spaced, will immediately recognise Wright’s unique directorial style in Shaun of the Dead, with lots of quick cuts to move the scenes forward in a speedy and waste-less fashion. As with all their works, there are nods and knowing glances to pop culture, television and movies throughout, including cameos from most of the Spaced regulars. The comedy is sharp, witty and hilarious throughout, with almost no missteps. The casting is flawless too, with everyone thoroughly enjoying the roles their given. Special attention must be given to Shaun’s mum, Barbara (Penelope Wilton) who is the encapsulation of a nice middle-class mother.
The strength of Shaun of the Dead is with the bromance at its heart between Ed and Shawn (Thanks babes). So utterly convincing is their relationship that you can’t help but think this is a fairly, if exaggerated, accurate representation of what they’re like in real life. It’s so good, that the romance between Shaun and Liz is forced to take a back-seat, even though it is the relationship around which the film is based.
The punch-lines in Shaun of the Dead are memorable and endlessly quotable, especially the Kill the Queen jukebox/pool-cue fight scene. The characters are hilarious and loveable, and hit the small number of dramatic scenes that are required with gusto and real feeling.
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