Finding the right balance of camp and comedy in the horror genre can be tricky without succumbing to the fate of the forgettable. This is not to discount the value of a good B-movie, but few rise above that classification with the magnitude of these two films. Here achieved is the status of the never-to-be-forgotten.
Shaun of the Dead
Shaun of the Dead (2004) is directed by Edgar Wright, who has been integral to the British troupe who created the superb TV series, Spaced. The hilarious Simon Pegg and Nick Frost are the key members of their ongoing filmography. Shaun of the Dead is an infectious movie that confronts slackers with the loss of love and life as a sudden plague of zombies take over their town. The writing and performances all come from being fans of the genre themselves. They truly get it.
Army of Darkness
Army of Darkness (1992) is directed by Sam Rami, and is actually the third installment of his Evil Dead trilogy. Cult hero/actor, Bruce Campbell, finds himself time traveling in the now legendary ‘73 Delta 88 Oldsmobile from previous and subsequent Rami films. Once again the unlikely hero summons up much bravado to wage war against the dead. Army of Darkness comes with an extra dash of camp, and Campbell’s performance carries it through.
Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience. Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.
