“Zombie Town”: Teens vs. The Curse of The Undead, 2023
Directed by: Peter Lepeniotis
Starring: Dan Aykroyd, Chevy Chase and Marlon Kazadi, Madi Monroe
Synopsis: Two teens uncover a centuries-old secret when they decide to watch a zombie movie on Halloween night. However, when the townspeople themselves turn into the undead, they must track down an infamous filmmaker and break the curse before it’s too late.
A Concoction of Feelings
“Zombie Town” is an intriguing concoction, offering a mix of humour and mild chills, albeit with a few lumps in the brew.
A Goosebumps-Style Affair
If you’re a fan of R.L. Stine‘s Goosebumps series, “Zombie Town” might pique your interest. It leans more toward the comedic side, making it a suitable choice for family viewing (it’s a PG13, but perhaps age 8+ is realistic, depending on your child). Nostalgic vibes will entertain the kids, while parents can expect a moderate dose of well-balanced humour.
Star-Studded Casting
In the limelight are Amy (Madi Monroe) and Mike (Marlon Kazadi), two teens navigating their distinct quirks. Dan Aykroyd, portraying Len Carver, the renowned horror filmmaker, shines brightly. His charismatic presence and comic timing enhance the movie’s appeal. Additionally, Chevy Chase’s cameo, although brief, contributes to the storyline with his signature brand of humour.
Teenage Quirks and Awkwardness
The film’s humour effectively taps into teenage awkwardness. Mike’s aversion to horror movies and the comedic revelations of his traumatic past experiences elicit laughter and create moments of relatability.
Zany Zombies Abound
The zombies in “Zombie Town” don’t conform to the typical brain-munching archetype. Instead, their primary goal is to convert others into zombies. This unconventional twist downplays the level of peril, allowing their original personalities to shine through. The result is a series of comical situations that will bring a smile to your face.
A Nod to R.L. Stine
“Zombie Town” offers a subtle nod to the works of R.L. Stine. While it doesn’t aim to send shivers down your spine, it successfully captures the essence of Goosebumps-style stories, paying tribute to the legendary storyteller.
A Light-hearted Adventure
In a genre where terror often takes the front seat, “Zombie Town” opts for a comedic approach, albeit with a few rough edges. The film offers more chuckles than spine-tingling moments, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a lighter take on the supernatural. Approached with the right mindset, “Zombie Town” offers a light-hearted cinematic experience.
Action Reloaded’s Verdict
While it has its quirks, “Zombie Town” is an entertaining choice for a family movie night, offering laughter and a hint of the supernatural.
Watch the trailer now.
★★★☆☆ Action Reloaded
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