Shaun of the Dead (2004) User Reviews

The best rom zom com ever! A loving satire with lots of British humour.

[colettesplace · 9/10 · 17 December 2004]

Shaun's nearing 30, stuck in a crappy sales job, and his girlfriend Liz is unhappy with the amount of time he spends with his ultra-slacker B-class drug dealer friend, Ed, at their local pub, the Winchester. When Liz dumps him, Shaun's so glum he doesn't even realise that London's been overrun with flesh-eating zombies. But somewhere within his console-happy lazy self, a hero is born.

I can't even begin to emphasise how cool this quintessentially British film is. The amount of time it takes for Shaun (Simon Pegg) and Ed (Nick Frost) to realise anything's wrong is priceless. Director Edgar Wright, who co-wrote the film with Pegg, also demonstrates that there's little difference between glassy eyed commuters and their undead brethren.

The plot rips along beautifully and parodies both the romantic comedy and zombie genres, while at the same time remaining true to them. Hopefully a new genre, the romzom com, has been born – incidentally, that's where you can go to find out more about the movie – romzom.com. The fabulous supporting cast includes Bill Nighy (Love Actually) as Shaun's supercilious stepfather, Penelope Wilton (Calendar Girls) as Shaun's absent-minded mum, Dylan Moran (Black Books) as Liz's snooty housemate David and Lucy Davis (The Office) as wannabe actress Diane.

Shaun of the Dead was partially inspired by the classic zombie flick, Dawn of the Dead. Its creator George Romero was reportedly so impressed with Shaun of the Dead that Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright are taking on cameo roles in Romero's latest instalment, Land of the Dead.

Shaun of the Dead is one of the best comedy of 2004 and a must-see for all rom zom com (romantic comedy with zombies) afficionados. ****½/***** stars.

The power of the movie is in its professionalism.

[Boba_Fett1138 · 8/10 · 16 September 2005]

This is the best mix of beer and blood I have ever tasted. "Shaun of the Dead" has some great comical moments and yet it has been made with lots of professionalism like this was a serious gory horror movie they were making. Because of this, through its seriousness, the movie becomes perhaps even more hilarious and really delivers. Both the fans of the (British) comedy-genre and the fans of mainly 'Zombie' movies and other gory horror-movies, will be entertained by this movie.

Visually the movie is really good looking. Its not like many other British movies and has a good looking use of cinematography and lighting. The gore, make-up and visual effects are extremely good and are even something that I haven't even seen in 'serious' Zombie/horror flicks.

You might think that this movie is just mainly a spoof of "Dawn of the Dead" (1978) but its really more than that. The movie is good and creates a good story on its own so that it becomes more than just a simple spoof. All of the characters are well written and are funny in their own way.

The acting is good for comedy standards and the actors perfectly know how to play in both hilarious/funny scene's as well as in serious/emotional one's. Plus of course it has the wonderful Bill Nighy playing a role in it. This guy really is a terrific actor that always is at his best in comical roles like he plays in this movie.

Basically this is a very good looking and professionally made movie that also is funny and hilarious at moments. I can't see how anyone could not like this movie.

8/10

http://bobafett1138.blogspot.com/

Fried Gold!

[tinstar_ · 8/10 · 9 April 2004]

Some 5 years before the making of this film the same team behind it wrote and directed series (season) 1 and 2 of an offbeat UK sitcom named "Spaced". Massively overlooked at the time of broadcast yet with a hardcore fan base of loyal devotees a third series was long overdue but never did materialise.

Shaun of the Dead is the continuation of what went before; of a similar format yet in a completely new setting, with new characters, plus new cast members and for the first time a feature-length run time for the big screen. So how does it play out? Even with such a departure from the original setting, the history of TV to cinema adaptations is a dodgy one to say the least. Fortunately for those of us who already fans or (more likely) if you've never seen the series before prepare to be impressed.

The style is all it's own. With inventive direction and editing making the visual impact which fans will instantly recognise, to the writing which importantly is firstly genuinely funny, interspersed with references to popular culture of the past two decades, always with a self-knowing grin, a wink to the viewer rather than a pretentious nod. And of course several self-references and in-jokes of the TV series all fill in the gaps between the tastefully presented killings. There is blood, after all this is a "rom-zom-com" or "romantic zombie comedy" - a self-proclaimed new genre and rightly so. This is as about as original as it gets. They actually manage to pull off humour, violence, decapitations, action, romance, suspense, sadness and joy all within the space of 90 minutes!

This is the best film I've seen in ages, and a real credit to British film, we already knew about "Fried Gold", now the rest of the World can see it too. An instant classic.

The original zom rom com.

[Sleepin_Dragon · 10/10 · 27 December 2022]

The first of the Cornetto trilogy, sees Shaun, his mum and a small bunch of friends battling a hoard of flesh eating zombies.

I'm staggered to see an IMDb rating of 7.9, what on Earth have some people seen, that I haven't, it's an out and out classic. Shaun of The Dead is an absolute riot, a mix of horror and comedy, with a very British flavour.

It's one of those films that simply doesn't get tired, it doesn't matter how many times you watch it, it is just so appealing.

Can't decide what the best bit is, there are so many contenders, but final encounter in the pub, and zombie girl in the garden, there are a hoard of moments that can be chosen.

Zombie comedies had been tried before, and have been tried since, but none even come close to this, Pegg and Frost nailed it.

10/10.

Instant cult status.

[Damian_Piesse · 10/10 · 17 April 2004]

Shaun of the Dead is quite a surprising and brilliant piece of work which I suspect will achieve the accolade of instant cult status as word of mouth snowballs this film to richly deserved recognition.

Simon Pegg, both the joint writer and the main star of the film, has been a comedic force for some time, most notably in the fantastic BBC2 series 'Hippies' (which inexplicably bombed in the ratings) and the cult Channel 4 series 'Spaced'. Both programs hinted at Pegg's saliently dead pan comedic manner (and writing skills) which comes to full fruition in 'Shaun of the Dead'.

In a nut shell, this film is a romantic comedy with zombies (or zom-rom-com) who appear for no good clear reason (although some tantalizing clues are offered). The film is an amazing blend of the funny, the violent and the poignant.

Pegg has cast himself as one hell of a serious loser in this film. And not in the 'American' form of: 'I am a loser but I work in TV and have Jennifer Aniston as my wife' kind of loser as portrayed in tripe such as 'Bruce Almighty' or dozens of other US 'loser' films. Pegg's Shaun is a genuine loser and extremely recognisable too, he's an everyday man who works for an electrical retailer and his life is just plain dull and disappointing - and this is where all the comedy comes from in this film. There are two scenes in the film which seem to summarise this (and also shine a light of Simon Pegg as a very clever and funny writer) and both scenes simply involve Shaun walking to the nearby corner shop. The first time Shaun plods semi-comatose to the store we simply get the feeling that he is a loser. However, by the time the film shows him making the same journey again we realise that there is a lot more going on! The scene is played with such exquisite subtleness that it has to be one of the funniest scenes I have ever seen in any film! Not that this film is subtle however, there is a stunning array of visual comedy, one liners and (best of all) some digs at other films from the horror genre. The funniest being a very subtle snipe at Boyles `28 days later' - see if you can spot it!

The only problem with reviewing this film is that there are so many funny moments in it that it is hard to pick any to write about without spoiling the film. All I can say is that I cannot remember a film ever being this consistently funny with probably five or six serious laugh-out-loud moments. It was a joy to watch and my only disappointment is that I can never watch this film for the first time ever again - every viewing will forever be a repeat viewing.

Shaun of the Dead is not very everyone though - the language from the beginning is strong and the violence was quite surprising for a 15 certificate film (in the UK). This film is definitely going to be most appreciated by horror fans who know a huge back catalogue of horror films. It will also be enjoyed by teenagers (who filled the cinema when I viewed this film which was terrific, as they laughed loudest). Finally, I do have some criticism of this film and that is there is some wasted talent in the movie. Black Book's (channel four) star Dylan Moran seemed a bit wasted and so was Martin Freeman (from BBC2's The Office) - who would have made a terrific zombie! Also, did I spot Matt Lucas (from BBC3's 'Little Britain') in this film? I am not sure as I was laughing too hard maybe!

These problems however are so minor and can easily be forgiven. My suggestion is to go and slowly shuffle down to your local cinema to see this film and give Simon Pegg the money and recognition he deserves so that he can go on and make more films that are this good including what the UK papers have suggested as his next project - `From Dusk 'Till Shaun'.

When there is no more room in hell, Shaun will walk the earth and...

[dee.reid · 10/10 · 26 September 2004]

...He'll kill some zombies too! Brace yourself for some nonstop zombie action and laughs with the delightful horror-comedy "Shaun of the Dead."

Armed with a cricket bat, razor-sharp wit, and an attitude, Shaun (Simon Pegg) is perhaps the last guy that you'd want to save the world from the legions of the living dead that have suddenly begun to storm the London neighborhood where he lives. It could be stated, as this is a running gag here, that we're all dying slow deaths, so it's no surprise that when zombies begin to eat the flesh of the living, Shaun couldn't be any more oblivious to the chaos that has gripped most of London.

Shaun loves his dead-end existence of wasting his days at the Winchester, a local pub, with his friend and flat mate Ed (Nick Frost). The film's money shot arrives about 20 minutes in, when Shaun, hungover from a hard night's drinking, goes to the store and because he's so hungover and is worried about his ex-girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield), he doesn't even notice that the street behind him is teeming with the living dead.

While in the store buying a beverage, he doesn't notice the bloody handprints on the refrigerator door and he almost slips in a puddle of blood. I was quite amazed at the response this film got from people in the theater: it seemed that every time something funny happened, the response was almost always with riotous laughter.

Straight from Britain, we have what is certainly one of the most original horror movies to come out in a long time. Even in a genre that embraces gore, "Shaun of the Dead" is fairly light on it (at least for the first 45 minutes) and is dominated by laughs galore.

You may remember the character of "Ash" (Bruce Campbell of "Evil Dead" fame), who has remained pretty much the supreme demon slayer in the horror genre. But you know, Campbell's pushed past 40 and people today may not be weary of his history slaying evil Deadites in Sam Raimi's notorious film series. So maybe with "Shaun of the Dead," the torch has been passed to Simon Pegg, who slays more than his fair share of the living dead in this film.

It's pretty obvious that "SOTD" was greatly influenced by the works of George A. Romero (the director of 1978's supreme epic of zombie action-mayhem "Dawn of the Dead") and 2002's "28 Days Later" (directed by Danny Boyle). There are little itty-bitty references to the two zombie flicks throughout the movie.

Granted "Shaun of the Dead" is aimed largely at the gorehounds who idolized Romero's "Living Dead" trilogy, but it's also the first zombie flick to attempt making a hit with the mainstream. I guarantee any viewers out there that you'll spend more time laughing than you will being frightened.

10/10

Just didn't click with me

[Gambitt · 6/10 · 31 May 2005]

I was really looking forward to enjoying a quirky, English comedy but from start to finish I just could not get into Shaun of the Dead.

It should be noted that I'm generally not a fan of zombie movies. The genre has always seemed to focus on gore, effects, and thrills over plot and innovation. But I didn't think this would be an issue since Shaun is a spoof.

But it's not a spoof. Or at least not entirely a spoof. Shaun is a conglomeration of spoof, satire, horror, thriller, fantasy, romance, and of course comedy. Very rarely do I enjoy movies that attempt to bridge more than three genres simultaneously. The only similar movie I can recall for comparison is Mars Attacks! (1996).

I had some laughs, but overall I could not slip into the proper mindset to enjoy this film even though I desperately wanted to. At times it was clever and creative by placing average Joes in bizarre zombie situations. But at the same time it suffers from all those traits that infuriate and annoy me in horror and thriller movies.

In short the primary problem was an inability to empathize with the characters. One reason I don't care for horror movies is because the main characters are generally morons. Shaun himself was no exception; he repeatedly makes poor choices and either under or over reacts to all sorts of situations. His mother is a cross between senile and dim-witted. Ed is borderline retarded.

Truthfully, in real life, I can't stand people like Shaun. They are so absorbed in their own problems that they are completely oblivious to their surroundings and events around them. They have no one to blame but themselves for their predicaments. The characters just don't seem to behave realistically, which would be fine if the movie was an outright satire sketch like Monty Python, but it's not.

All in all, I give Shaun of the Dead a 6 / 10, still worth a watch.

The best comedy of the year!

[Grigory_the_Wanderer · 10/10 · 7 October 2004]

Here in the States they don't show too many foreign movies, even if they are from the countries like UK. When they show them, however, they tend to outdo some of the American movies in the box office. Although the British movies are rarely shown here, they're a guaranteed success - do you recall the popularity of the last year's "28 Days Later"? Well, this movie is even better - it's a hilarious combination of comedy, social parody, tragedy and drama, spiced with the references to every zombie flick ever made. Some references are pretty slim, though - for example "We're coming to get you, Barbara!" is a reference to "The Night of the Living Dead" - a reference that many people (including George Romero!) didn't get. Most of the actors are unknown to an average American, yet they played great! I hope that movies like "Shaun of the Dead" will make big wigs in Hollywood realize that there are many great foreign movies, and that integrity is always better than crude remakes which the States are so notorious for... I encourage everybody to come and see SOTD - the best comedy of 2004.

May be the best comedy-horror mix of recent years

[BrandtSponseller · 10/10 · 12 February 2005]

Shaun (Simon Pegg) is in the midst of a lousy patch--he hates and is embarrassed about his job, he gets no respect from other employees, one of his roommates is on his case about the other roommate--a slacker friend of Shaun's, his girlfriend is on his case about the fact that all the ever do is hang out at a pub, and he hates his stepfather, who is also on his case about doing something nice for his mum. As if that's not bad enough, suddenly, everyone is turning into a zombie. Shaun must both straighten out his life and fight for it at the same time.

Shaun of the Dead is a superb blending of horror and comedy ala An American Werewolf in London (1981), Idle Hands (1999), Frankenhooker (1990), or the Evil Dead films (beginning with the 1981 original, although there is progressively less to more comedy in that series). It manages to successfully both pay homage to and spoof a number of classic zombie films and horror film zombie mythology in general.

The film begins firmly in very British comedy/drama territory, with a number of stylistic directorial flourishes that seem like a cross between Darren Aronofsky's Requiem for a Dream (2000) and Danny Boyle's Trainspotting (1996). The horror material enters gradually, beginning with a couple background gags, then entering Desolation Boulevard territory via another Boyle reference, this time to 28 Days Later (2002) (although that itself was basically a version of The Last Man on Earth (aka L'Ultimo uomo della Terra)(1964), based on Richard Matheson's novel I Am Legend). This arrives in the guise of Shaun crossing over to the corner store to buy his morning soda. He doesn't notice the deserted streets or store because he's so hung over from the night before.

Before long, our ragtag bunch of heroes is in the midst of a full-fledged zombie apocalypse--of the traditional, slow-moving zombie type. Acknowledging the cultural differences that strict gun laws bring about, they have to use their wits to commit the requisite head busting, enlisting unwanted LPs (after some debate over the merits of each), cricket bats, shovels and other items for the job. Of course it would be easier if any of our heroes were the slightest bit athletic and had any aim, but they get the job done. More or less.

Furthering genre-fan fun, director/writer Edgar Wright and co-writer Pegg insert a lot of references to other zombie films--especially when it comes to explaining the source of the "epidemic". The "scientific" explanations given in Resident Evil (2002), 28 Days Later, all of Romero's Dead films--beginning with Night of the Living Dead (1968)--and possibly even Romero's The Crazies (1973) and then some are all mentioned in the background, but resolutely cut off before they're finished. Part of the reason might be that usually, the explanations were pretty ridiculous, and we didn't really care--we just wanted to get to the cool zombie stuff, such as limbs being torn off, guts being eaten, and brains being blown or smashed out of skulls.

Wright and Pegg also insert clever nods to the subtexts of zombie films. Shaun looks and walks like a zombie when he's waking up. We see zombie like office workers, retail workers, and so on. There's also an amusing nod to filmic attempts to study and tame zombies, as well as organized militaristic defenses (both very prominent in 28 Days Later, but present in other films as well). There are interesting, more subtle and original zombie subtexts in Shaun of the Dead, also, such as the "mirrored" scene where Shaun and his crew meet up with Yvonne and her crew.

As long as you like outrageous comedy, somewhat gory horror, and you don't mind mixing the two, Shaun of the Dead should provide an enjoyable ride. Although it is the most fun when you're very familiar with the source material it is spoofing and referencing, it is still a great comedy-horror film if viewed with fresher eyes, and not so much as a spoof.

Inventive and fun satire of those bloody zombie movies

[pere-25366 · 7/10 · 20 May 2019]

Shaun of the Dead (2004) is an extremely creative and entertaining film created by famed director Edgar Wright. Showcasing some of the snap-zooms and whip-pans that would later serve as his trademarks, as well as his use of dark humor and gags, this is a film that shows a master of cinema in the making while paying tribute to a genre that has long been rehashed. Hilarious (and even, at times, touching) performances from Pegg and Frost to boot - just good ol' bloody fun!

Unpopular opinion

[FeastMode · 4/10 · 7 August 2022]

I know this is a fan favorite, cult classic, whatever you want to call it. I've never been a fan. I even gave it another chance all these years later and still feel the same. It's pretty funny early on, but there are almost no laughs in the second half. There's a bunch of unnecessary and annoying relationship drama (not the family stuff, that was good). And there are a bunch of really stupid parts. Overall it's not terrible, but it's not good either. (about 3 viewings, 8/6/2022)

Flesh-eating fun for all the family

[tjcclarke · 15 April 2004]

The great British sit-com has undergone something of a revival in recent years. Galvanised by the new wave of smart, sassy imports from the US, the Brits have girded their loins and produced a spate of quality comedies that have banished memories of the bland, identikit dross of the late eighties and early nineties.

One such series is Spaced, a wholly original and delightfully quirky comic bagatelle which has built up a small but dedicated following in the UK. Now writer/actor Simon Pegg and director Edgar Wright have teamed up once again to give us Shaun of the Dead which is, in a nutshell, a feature-length episode of Spaced (with added zombies). Happily timed to coincide with the Hollywood remake of the 1978 classic shocker Dawn of the Dead, Shaun is the perfect antidote: Irreverent, warm and very funny.

Shaun (Pegg) is your stereotypical sit-com loser: An ineffectual slob in a dead-end job, he is terminally afraid of commitment and spends all his time with his flat-mate Ed (Nick Frost, also from Spaced) who is an even bigger loser. After his girlfriend dumps him, Shaun and Ed seek solace in their local pub the Winchester - a good old-fashioned English hostelry with warm beer and pork scratchings which is infamous for its lock-ins. They stagger home in a state of advanced refreshment, unaware that the dead are now walking the earth. Indeed, it takes Shaun a little while to work it out the following morning despite interacting with a few of them (one of the recurring themes is that most of us go through the drudgery of our daily routines in a trance close to inertia).

When the penny drops, Shaun resolves to rescue his mother and his (ex) girlfriend and generally stand up for himself for the first time in his life. There is not much more of a plot than that. The film, like Spaced relies on a flawless script, observational humour and the theatre of the absurd. Pegg has perfected this in his writing but he is also a surprisingly good actor. It helps that he has surrounded himself with the pick of the British comedy fraternity who seem to have been lining up (literally in one scene) for a cameo. The stars of similarly acclaimed series' such as Black Books, The Office and Little Britain are all on show here as well as Jessica Stevenson, Pegg's Spaced co-writer, who plays a jolly-hockey-sticks human vigilante with a stiff-upper lip and can-do attitude ready to give those nasty zombie's what-for.

Veteran support comes from Penelope Wilton (a sit-com stalwart from a bygone age) as Shaun's curtain-twitching mother and Bill Nighy as her fearsome second husband who performs one of the most dignified and poignant descents into zombieness ever caught on camera.

Despite all the high praise, it must be acknowledged that Shaun of the Dead is still a spoof - a comic tool that you could argue is as low a form of wit as sarcasm. But where it scores highly is in its respect for the original material. Most spoofs (the Scary Movie franchise, for example) are vicious lampoons that unmercifully mock the films they are taking off. Shaun of the Dead gently pokes fun but doesn't lose sight of the fact that if something is worth parodying, it must have some merit. Pegg is also careful to ensure that his film can stand up on its own - there is barely a minute goes by without a very good joke and despite the light-heartedness, there are some satisfyingly scary moments and ample gore.

What is most encouraging is that us Brits have started playing to our strengths. It took a long time for comedy writers to realise that making an English version of Friends is doomed to failure (in the same way that The Office will not work with an American make-over). We should celebrate the Britishness of this film, laugh knowingly at the in gags, and be proud that it doesn't take a huge budget or movie stars to entertain people at the cinema.

8/10

Like Spaced...with zombies

[meako1973 · 10/10 · 3 April 2004]

In a London suburbia, Shawn is almost 30 and hasn't really achieved much in his life. He comes home from his mundane job each day, and goes to the same pub (The Winchester) that he always has gone to. He shares his flat with an ex-student friend, and his lifelong slob of a friend. On top of that, his girlfriend has had enough of him. Oh.and the dead have started walking the earth!

Hot on the heels of recent remake Dawn of the Dead comes Simon 'Spaced' Pegg's black comedy zombie spoof, in which Shawn must save his friends, mum, and ex-girlfriend from the masses of lumbering dead by, erm, going to the Winchester! Unlike recent zombie-fests, these dead-ites are pretty lame, lumbering monstrosities, much like the ones from the older zombie films. This is used to simple comic effect throughout as the 'heroes' seem to have plenty of time to think about things before being attacked.

The film balances the humour excellently with a decent zombie-story, and the array of characters within are not there just for laughs, there are plenty of poignant moments scattered throughout. Issues of family, love, and friendship, along with growing older and accepting responsibility are contained within the script. Much in the way that TV series Spaced managed to play the absurd with the serious, so does this film. It is easy to compare it to a 'big screen Spaced' episode, but that doesn't sell the film enough. It is much more than that, and is the perfect homage to zombie flicks, and social satire too. Watch towards the early stages of the film to see that most of the population could be confused for zombies anyway, and as for the end scenes of the film.well.suffice to say it will keep you laughing right to the end.

With a cast pulled from many cult British shows (Dylan Moran from Black Books, Matt Lucas from Little Britain, and nearly everyone from Spaced), and an excellent appearance by Bill `Love Actually' Nighy, there isn't really anything negative I can think of in the film. Even the action is well handled, with enough gore to satisfy any fans of zombie flicks.

This is a must see film which showcases Simon Pegg's talents excellently. The only drawback is that if it catapults him to international stardom he may never get around to making that final season of Spaced!!

More than it appears

[jedove-80968 · 9/10 · 30 March 2021]

You might think from the name and trailer that this film is nothing more than a cheap micky take of "dawn of the dead" and while it is at the same time its so much more than that.

The way Edgar shows our day to day lives as being lifeless zombies before the zombies even appear is so subtle and clever, the characters all feel very real or relatable, the story while silly makes sense, and ofc humor through is brilliant and I was honestly shocked when i saw people giving it 1 stars and saying its not funny.

Best comedy and trilogy ever

[ethanjjacobs · 10/10 · 15 April 2021]

Good acting and amazing writing from Edgar wright. Watched this about 20 times and never fails to get a laugh. An absolute classic and by far my favourite comedy. If you haven't watched this yet you really need to.

9.7/10.

Another brilliant comedy duo

[MAYESY-44 · 7/10 · 8 June 2020]

This is a brilliantly funny comedy with an amazing duo at the helm. Good laughs all the way through and some funny action as well.

Why can't there be more British comedies like this?

[Kudos_King · 9/10 · 11 September 2005]

Shaun of the dead is in a word, brilliant.

I've seen this movie at least 10 times and it never gets old, makes me laugh at each viewing. Having seen Dawn of the Dead, i was expecting just another spoof (as the name implies) but was pleasantly surprised to find a completely original story with some great comedy moments and superb acting all around (not to mention buckets of gore). The first of the rom-com-zom genre, Shaun of the Dead will certainly set the standard for future zombie flicks of its kind, and i can see Pegg having a bright future in comedy. GO RENT IT NOW.

Tom Patterson

Snatch-Like Brit Zombies

[ccthemovieman-1 · 7/10 · 14 June 2006]

I guess you could call this a combination of "Dawn of the Dead" and "Snatch," the latter used as a comparison because of it's modern-day dark humor, That's what this film is: a combination of irreverent, modern-day attitudes and profanity from young Brits and a re-make of sorts of a famous horror film.

Here, we these these 20-ish types fighting a mob of the "undead" as zombies roam neighborhoods devouring everyone. Our hero (Simon Pegg), a shiftless bum who has just lost his girlfriend due to his ineptness, winds up being the productive guy who saves the day and gets his girl back. Along the way, we get a number of laughs and a number of gross-out horror scenes, and a lot of f- words and the like. Nick Frost, as Simon''s best friend, provides the best and most disgusting of the low-life characters, which are unfamiliar over here.

This is dark humor, to say the least, and would would appeal more to younger people although I like dark humor and I'm an old fart....but others over 50, beware. It was good entertainment in a crude way. My only complaint was trying to understand some of the sentence and British phrases of the day.

Not really THAT great.

[CuriosityKilledShawn · 6/10 · 29 August 2004]

It's time for a serious, level-headed review of Shaun of the Dead.

This movie is one of the most over-hyped of the year. I'm tired of everyone calling it an instant cult classic. This phrase doesn't make any sense. A cult classic is a film that no one sees by has a small but loyal following. Shaun of the Dead was a big hit when it was released her back in April and it seems like it will do the same when it's released in America thanks to the alarmingly widespread positive word-of-mouth. Everyone seems to be caught up in the off-centre comedy to realize that the film is heavily conflicted and doesn't add up.

First of all, this is not a romzomcom, or whatever. There is no romance, just a guy who wants to make up with his girlfriend while zombies get in the way. And to call it a comedy would be totally wrong, anyone paying the slightest iota of attention would see this film is not a comedy! Some funny moments, yes. But not all the way.

Like most other zombie flicks there is no explanation to why Britain is suddenly overrun by the undead. The plague slowly trickles to life from the odd zombie stumbling around to full-blown hoards of them. Amidst this Shaun (Simon Pegg) and Ed (the great Nick Frost) make fun of the undead and go about dealing with the holocaust in their own silly way.

There are some pretty hard scenes of heavy emotion is this film (I want say what, but some characters do die) that totally contradict the 'comedy' label it's been stuck with. And despite some scenes of graphic violence this is NOT a horror film. It's not a comedy, a romantic comedy a spoof or homage. It simply doesn't know what it is.

Many people believe they got a breath of fresh (or should that be old) air when it was revealed the film would have slow zombies and not the faster ones like in DOTD 2004 and (the dreadful) 28 Days Later. I personally do not understand this overused moan. Slow zombies are not scary; there is no threat from them.

Shaun of the Dead starts out very stupid and slow. The opening scenes of people doing the repetitive things day in day out are not subtle at all and hammer the point to the audience way too forcefully. Then when the zombies first appear the characters and the audience don't fully realize/appreciate the danger until the last five minutes when the film finally becomes exciting and then that's when we get REALLY ripped off. The film ends way too quickly and conveniently. What a let down after building up so much only to collapse back into the stupid tone the film began in.

Horror buffs will like the zillions of in-jokes and references to other horror movies. To the casual viewer, they will go right over your head. It's about the only thing that's consistent throughout the whole film.

Don't listen to the word of over-excited reviewers who are inexplicably giving this film 5 stars. It is in no way the classic they are making it out to be. Good, yes. Entertaining, yes. The best movie you've ever seen/best zombie movie ever/yadda yadda yadda, definitely not. Shaun of the Dead has great potential come from inspiring sources, but the end result is not what the hype is telling you.

Already out in UK, the DVD has great 2.35:1 anamorphic picture with Dolby 5.1 sound and zillions of extras including Audio commentary from actor/writer Simon Pegg and director Edgar Wright, Audio commentary from actors Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Dylan Moran, Kate Ashfield and Lucy Davis. Audio commentary from actors Bill Nighy and Penelope Wilton, Audio commentary from the zombies!, Extended bits with audio commentary, Outtakes, 'The Man Who Would Be Shaun': Simon Pegg and Nick Frost impersonate Sean Connery and Michael Caine, 'Plotholes': comic strip sequences with voice-over from Lucy Davis, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost including What Happened To Shaun When He Ran Off?/What Happened To Diane When She Left The Winchester?/How Did Ed Get From The Cellar To The Shed?, Extended edits of the TV Shows within the movie: Coldplay on T4 / Fun Dead/Trisha-'Your nine lives are up!'/Trisha-'I married a monster', 'Remembering Z Day': an interview with Jeremy Thompson, 'Electronic Press Kit' featurette, Vignettes: Simon's cam/Lucy's cam/Joe's diary, 'Edgar Wright's and Simon Pegg's Flip Chart': a presentation of the first draft, SFX comparison from Double Negative, Make-up tests, Photo Gallery: photo's by Simon, Lucy and Charlotte, Poster Designs: from the original Oscar poster to the final official poster, 2000AD Strip: 'There's Something About Mary', TV spots, Official trailer, Official teaser trailer, 'Fright Fest' exclusive trailer.

Phew! For those with a multi-region DVD player, get the R2 DVD version. Otherwise you'll have to wait until September 24 (my birthday!!!) for the film to be released Nationwide in America.

Very Ordinary

[riteshk-71503 · 5/10 · 28 December 2017]

I don't know why this movie is so highly rated. In my opinion this is a very ordinary movie, nothing special. I didn't even find it funny.

The best horror comedy in existence.

[destiny_west · 10/10 · 28 December 2022]

When it comes to horror comedies Shaun of The Dead holds the number one spot and all others pale in comparison. We get it - you wish you had made Shaun of the Dead.

I can never tire of watching this film. Each time you watch it you pick up on something new.

The acting is brilliant, the special effects are brilliant. There is nothing about this film that is sub par.

The thing I love about Wright's films, well the trio of Shaun of The Dead, Hot Fuzz and The World's End, they all have little tie ins.

The soundtrack for Shaun of the Dead is also amazing. This film stands alone just as a zombie film and definitely a reflection of society today.

If you haven't watched Shaun of The Dead, what are you waiting for??

A Killer Comedy-Horror Mashup that Will Leave You Dying of Laughter and Terror

[ziancara · 8/10 · 12 April 2023]

Shaun of the Dead is an incredibly entertaining and cleverly crafted film that seamlessly blends horror and comedy genres. The film follows Shaun, a dead-end retail worker who finds himself battling an undead horde in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. The humor in the film is top-notch, with hilarious one-liners and perfectly timed jokes that keep the audience laughing throughout.

What makes "Shaun of the Dead" so unique is its ability to balance the humor with genuine moments of heart and emotion. The film is a perfect blend of witty banter and heartfelt character development, making the audience genuinely care about the characters and their journey.

Director Edgar Wright's sharp direction and clever editing style make for a visually stunning film that is as entertaining as it is visually impressive. The performances by Simon Pegg and Nick Frost are also worth noting, as they bring a level of chemistry and humor to the screen that is unmatched.

Overall, "Shaun of the Dead" is a must-watch film for anyone who loves horror, comedy, or just great filmmaking in general. With its perfect balance of humor and heart, it's no wonder that this film has become a cult classic and remains one of the most beloved comedies of all time. It deserves a solid 8/10 rating for its ability to make audiences laugh, care, and come back for more.

Shaun Of The Dead

[RobTheWatcher · 8/10 · 7 March 2023]

Shaun Of The Dead was an absolute comedic treasure. From the punny name itself (poking fun at Dawn of The Dead) to the beginning and then to the end, this movie was an absolute laugh and masterfully written. There's so many funny one liners throughout and an actual story line behind everything. Every time I watch this, I notice new Easter eggs of funny or witty things included. The whole movie is just the perfect blend of humor and an actual story line with drama and suspense. There's never been such a success movie before that's done what this movie has done. Absolutely recommend this movie to anyone.

HALLOWEEN 2022 - TIME FOR SHAUN OF THE DEAD!

[thejdrage · 9/10 · 9 October 2022]

HALLOWEEN 2022 - TIME FOR SHAUN OF THE DEAD! Probably viewing number 13 for me.

I am not a Zombie fan, but I cannot resist this one. Simon Pegg and his merry band of guys and gals are always a treat to watch. The only other two zombie movies I have liked are Vincent Price in The Last Man on Earth (1967) and, believe it or not, 2016 Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, with Lily James. (The only thing I like her in.) BUT! Shaun of the Dead is the only one I watch as often as I can.

If you are not a Simpon Pegg and Company fan, it may not be for you. How sad for you. The are just so silly. Like giant sized children who slowly form into adults. Maybe.

It's a great escape. And a great way to celebrate the second best holiday of the year (first being Thanksgiving, of course).

If you've never given it a go - do. You have nothing to lose. If you don't like it, don't tell anyone. If you do. YAY!

An Invigorating Blend Of Comedy & Horror

[CinemaClown · 29 July 2021]

An invigorating blend of comedy & horror that breathes new life into the zombie apocalypse subgenre with its fresh perspective, witty treatment, welcome tributes & sharp commentary, Shaun of the Dead covers an eventful day in the uneventful life of its titular character and is an endlessly fun & wildly entertaining ride that will delight both casual viewers & genre fans.

Co-written & directed by Edgar Wright, the simple premise & quick setup sets the main plot into motion right away while its energetic pace & dynamic flair keeps the interest alive from start to finish. Wright's brand of comedy isn't for everyone and though most of his attempts at humour do hit the sweet spot, there are moments where it feels overdone or is ineffective.

The kinetic camerawork, breezy pace, clever use of incorporated songs & numerous nods to zombie classics of the past add flavours of their own into the mix. But the film's real strength lies in the smooth interplay & seamless chemistry between its leading duo. Both Simon Pegg & Nick Frost make the most of their roles and expertly complement the performances of one another.

Overall, Shaun of the Dead deftly merges horror, comedy, homage & parody into a pleasant, delightful & enjoyable extravaganza and packs as much heart as it exudes humour. Crafted with heartfelt honesty, executed with unbridled passion and steered by a fantastic cast, this wicked, hilarious & refreshing horror comedy is a genuine crowdpleaser that promises loads of fun and more than delivers on it.