The zombie love film Warm Bodies directed by Jonathan Levine was released in theatres everywhere on February 1. Now, if I’m being completely honest, at first glance this did not look like a film I was really interested in but it definitely grew on me. After seeing the trailer quite a few times I realized I would give the film a shot because it had a unique take on the whole zombie genre which is a bit refreshing. On top of having an interesting concept, the film’s director is the same guy who brought us the fantastic film 50/50 which was, in my opinion, one of 2011 better films. Then there is the great cast that includes Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, Rob Corddry, Dave Franco, and the ever so masterful John Malkovich. At this point my mind was set that I would absolutely go see the film with an open mind so my best friend and I made some time to go see it and it was definitely the right choice. Not only was it totally engaging but it was extremely funny. The actors, especially those playing zombies, did a phenomenal job in providing laugh after laugh. Not only were they delivering their lines with great comedic timing, but also by embracing the long forgotten slapstick comedy.

One of the best aspects of the movie has to be the opening scene where the character “R” (Nicholas Hoult) is providing an inner monologue as his zombie self trudges through a rundown airport. A huge round of applause to the writers for allowing such a hilarious moment to open the film as that is a bold move because it is very easy to drop your funniest bit in the beginning leaving nothing for the rest of the film. Thankfully the hilarity kept a great pace throughout the entire running time especially through all of “R’s” inner thoughts.

Apart from its comedic aspect, Warm Bodies also plays on your emotions as it brings back the idea of the underdog. You find yourself rooting for “R” and you want him to be happy and loved by Julie (Teresa Palmer) despite the fact that he is technically dead and has done some pretty sick shit as a zombie. He has so many redeeming qualities that you’re able to forget the fact that he is a flesh eating zombie. Like I said, it’s definitely a refreshing new take on the whole zombie movement.

Zombies, vampires, werewolves, and many other creatures of fantasy and lore have become such a huge part of our pop culture. As we know zombies,they are mostly mindless machines that eat humans and walk around aimlessly as they decay. That’s it. No speaking or sleeping or any other human function for that matter. Warm Bodies showcases zombies that are self aware like “R” and who want more than anything to be human again, yet are stuck with life as a zombie.

Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised by this film. It was funny, unique, and even heartfelt at times. I definitely recommend you go see it before it leaves theatres because it is, as Richard Roeper said, “a well paced, nicely directed story with a terrific sense of humor” and I couldn’t agree more!

(Picture and quote taken from: www.richardroeper.com/reviews.warmbodies.aspx)