A tormented zombie (Nicholas Hoult) experiences a profound transformation after entering into an unusual relationship with the daughter (Teresa Palmer) of a military leader charged with eradicating the walking dead. As the unlikely pair build a tenuous bridge between the living and the dead, those on both sides of the battle begin to sense that nothing in their world will ever be the same again. Warm Bodies is based on the novel by Isaac Marion. Rob Corddry and John Malkovich round out the starring cast. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Jonathan Levine
Cast: Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, Rob Corddry, John Malkovich, Dave Franco
Release Date: Feb 01, 2013
Rated PG-13 for zombie violence and some language
Runtime: 1 hr. 38 min.
Genres: Comedy
Review:
Warm Bodies is a simple film which a bit of a statement for a zombie rom-com. Director Jonathan Levine keeps things as simple as possible while giving us a self aware version of Twilight with a much better sense of humor. Its light fare at it’s fluffiest. Its center is an incredibly fun, charming and ultimately engaging performance from Nicholas Hoult. From the moment we hear his internal monologue the audience is sucked into his plight and quest for zombie reinvention. R is pretty much Buddy from Day of the Dead with a romantic heart. Love truly conquers all, even rigor mortis. As mentioned the plot is thread bare and while it’ll keep you grinning throughout you can’t help but think it could have been streamlined or that it’s rather neutered to keep that sacred PG-13 rating. Teresa Palmer is rather bland but serviceable. Rob Corddry and a steady John Malkovich do solid work in limited roles. Warm Bodies is an almost sugary sweet zombie love story, it’s not perfect but who is.
B-
