[Review] World War Z - 1st July 2013

★★★★★★ Worth Watching [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]
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Release Date: 21st June 2013
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Director: Marc Forster
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Writers: Matthew Michael Carnahan - Drew Goddard - Damon Lindelof (Screenplay) J. Michael Straczynski (Screen Story) Max Brooks (Novel)
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Cast: Brad Pitt - Mireille Enos - Daniella Kertesz

Review

Being a fan of horror, and indeed zombie films, the decision to go and see ‘World War Z’ was never in any doubt. After viewing the trailer, I awaited Pitt’s new film with anticipation. It looked like a refreshing addition to the ever-growing zombie genre, and in short - it was quite enjoyable!

‘World War Z’ is a zombie film on a grander scale. Though other zombie films have been set in a global apocalypse, they tend to remain in one location, or adopt a type of ‘road’ style, in which the characters travel for safety. ‘World War Z’ however paints an accurate picture of a zombie disaster on a global level, following one character (Brad Pitt) as he travels to several locations around the globe, looking for information that could lead to a solution to end the disaster.

What made ‘World War Z’ enjoyable is a combination aspects; an engaging narrative, clever settings, original costumes and concise, effective direction from Marc Forster. Pitt’s role, while unchallenging, is performed well, providing a believable character that the audience can empathise and relate to. Furthermore, while the visual effects used throughout the film are good, they do not overshadow its substance, leaving a well rounded, adept film bringing a unique element into a modern expanding genre.

In addition to this, ‘World War Z’ blends action and horror in an effective manner. Aside from the appearance of the ‘zombies’ themselves, the film is not particularly grotesque or gory, but it does generate good levels of suspense and fear. Additionally, it makes you jump in unexpected places, using horror stingers effectively. Furthermore, the action sequences throughout the film are tense and gripping, and are used to break the film up effectively, keeping pace of the film high and exciting.

‘World War Z’ – A decent, well made film that I would watch again, and recommend to fans of the genre!