Not due out in theaters for another few weeks (February 1), the movie "Warm Bodies," directed by Jonathan Levine is a definite must-see, folks. We saw this horror-romance in advance of it’s release and although I wasn't sure what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised, and then some. It reminded me just a smidgen of "Return of the Living Dead” and "Zombieland" – with a momentary lapse into “Twilight," but I assure you, only due to its opener by handsome pale-faced Nicholas Hoult (who plays "R" in the movie) – whom I might add, has potential beneath all those grunts and brain-eating scenes. I'm just glad we made it to this preview, regardless of the rain and cold we stood in for it was worth it. If anything, it will get your heart pumping.
Not only is this your classic love story with a twist – it’s the kind of zombie movie a guy would sit through without excusing himself for popcorn, or whatever. It has just the right amount of grunting, humor, sweetness – and ghoulish oomph to keep everyone in their seats, keeping attention and laughing often enough to not feel the need to check their phone. (Although since a StubHub free preview, they did make everyone turn cell phones off, and they did patrol the theater isles – but I have to admit it was actually kind of nice to have peace during an entire movie.)
Here was a land of zombies walking to and fro, in an airport no less, with nowhere to go (reminiscent of “The Terminal" with Tom Hanks), no doubt for the metaphor and likely for the incredible warfare scenes; with “R” being not only an unconventional hero, but a leader in many ways – who also may have already been transient in his quest for "life again," at least that's what I felt just before he met his heartthrob, “Julie” (costar Teresa Palmer). I was surprised that I could stomach at all the whole brain-eating thing – let alone understand it – but then again, it was about “R” getting to know “Julie” – not about the remains of the dead. I can honestly say that this is a love story unlike any other – and that is not an understatement.
With all of the twists and turns of your typical horror film with all the needed romance for your date – finally, a great date movie. And if there are kids added to the mix, no problem, they should love it (PG-13).
There's not much I didn't like, although it was nothing like I expected, in any portion of the film; twists and turns were everywhere. What struck me would have to be the livelihood that existed among the zombies – or the willingness to seek life again. The series of events that leads to friendship, love and human interaction – all of the things that even the real world lacks today; well, that is touching, and hopeful. Maybe that’s what struck the hardest – we see so many people walk the planet as if in a daze, not much different than zombies; day in and day out, roaming aimlessly not knowing whether they’re coming or going. In the movie, “Warm Bodies,” it was “R” who was the exception, with a very interesting story to tell. One can only hope it helps our human race the same as it did his.
With that said, get your dose of “Warm Bodies” as soon as it hits theaters; and find a warm body to go with you. "Warm Bodies" is due to release to a theater near you on February 1, 2013, and whether you're in love, roaming the earth like a zombie in search of love or maybe just looking for a friend – this movie will likely save you. And whatever you do, don’t listen to the critics; this is one movie the human race should see for themselves.
Additional info:
“Warm Bodies” – Coming to a theater near you February 1, 2013
Definitely a PG-13 (nothing a child couldn’t see), comedy, horror, romance, ghoulish warfare, and the perfect date movie or family movie.
Favorite parts: When “R” and “Julie” first realize they are falling; When the Zombies meet up with the Bonies; when “R” and his zombie friend (played by a stellar John Malkovich) speak.
Screenwritten and directed by: Jonathan Levine
Based on the novel by: Isaac Marion, Rob Corddry and John Malkovich
Starring: Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, Rob Corddry, John Malkovich, Analeigh Tipton, Dave Franco and Cory Hardrict
"Warm Bodies" is also available on Facebook (with trailers #1 and #2 available there and on YouTube as well).
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