Zombieland Wants To Give Thanks…

Thank god for rednecks!

BY COLIN ENQUIST

Zombieland is the brain child of Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick. Ruben Fleischer directs the horror/comedy which stars Jesse Eisenberg (Adventureland), Woody Harrelson (Seven Pounds), Emma Stone (Ghosts of Girlfriends Past) and Abigail Breslin (My Sister's Keeper). No major thought is involved in the premise, zombies take over the world, a few survivors team up to survive, and funny things ensue.

The beginning of this film (narrated by Eisenberg) shows us zombie hi-jinks over a wonderful use of title credits. As we begin to understand a little about Zombieland (what was once the U.S.A.) we are introduced to Columbus (also Eisenberg) and his OCD rules that have, so far, kept him alive. Rule #1: Cardio, it keeps you alive!

Soon enough, a lonely Columbus finds himself teaming up with a completely opposite personality in Tallahassee (Harrelson). When these characters are thrust into any situation, their reactions are opposing the others. It does not help that Columbus believes Tallahassee’s quest to find the last Twinkie in Zombieland is pointless. It is the character dynamics of Columbus and Tallahassee that make this film a colossal enjoyment.

The duo becomes a quartet, shortly after Wichita (Stone) and Little Rock (Breslin) con them into giving up their vehicle and arsenal. Eventually they concede to work together, joined by a single cause, getting to Pacific Playland in California. More hilarity ensues.

The group dynamics begin to shift when Columbus falls for Wichita, almost making Columbus violate one of his rules. Rule #17: Don’t be a hero. Although he is happy enough to step aside so Tallahassee can kill more zombies. It is the only thing Tallahassee is good at!

Not a preachy film by any means. Zombieland does not have much to say thematically. Of course there are a few exceptions. Rule #32: Enjoy the little things.

The third act is what keeps this film from being placed alongside Shaun of the Dead. It lacks the actual horror element, as it never feels like the characters are ever in any kind of danger. Also, this film has possibly one of the best cameo appearances I have ever witnessed. I am not going to spoil it for you but be prepared for a ton of laughter.

I highly recommended this film; it is funny, insane and just pure fun. Your sides will hurt from the constant laughter this film provides. Surprising the hell out of me, Zombieland is worth your hard earned cash.

4 out of 5