Tuesday 2 December 2014

Vault Reviews: Return of the Living Dead (1985) HALLOWEEN HORROR REVIEWS #16

A fun and sleazy 80's exploitation extravaganza.


This film is so much fun. As a sequel to the original classic, it lacks most of the subtlety or weight of said original. However as its own creation, it is some of the most entertaining comedy-horror out there.

Firstly, the film's actors are all charismatic and likable. Delivering the hilarious dialogue well and able to bring gravitas to the handful of more intense moments. More importantly here however is the sharp as a knife screenplay, filled with innumerable funny gags and clever moments. As a comedy the film is truly special, funny as anything you'll see using the horror genre as a skin. However RotLD does not simply use horror as a skin, it is a genuine entry within the genre, unlike some other satires. The zombie effects are genuinely great, and the atmosphere is solid. Both an amazing comedy, and a strong horror.

The film also has a great plot, both for horror and comedy. Walking through numerous clichés and host to several great set pieces. In particular the first introduction of the zombie horde is great example of effects and scale. The film is joyfully drenched in sleaze and grindhouse charm (including a character who spends the majority of the film naked for no real reason).

Overall, I loved this tasty ball of slime and dark humour. A true classic of the holidays in my opinion.

Originally posted 31/10/14 on IMDB.com, as part of HALLOWEEN HORROR REVIEWS 2014

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