#REVIEW: “SCOUT’S GUIDE TO THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE”

Review by Jonathan Godfrey for Mr. Will Wong

George A. Romero ushered in the zombie era with his 1968 Film, Night of the Living Dead. Since then the flesh hungry ghouls have become fodder for the masses.

Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse is the latest addition to the undead archives. One brought to us by Paranormal Activity director, Christopher Landon. Unlike his previous Films a Scout’s Guide is not a Horror Film, but is instead a Comedy. Zom-Coms began in 1985 with Sam Raimi’s Film, Evil Dead II. Since then the genre has picked-up pace, and a Scout’s Guide gives us a contemporary example of where the genre is at.

As its story goes, scouts Ben, Carter and Augie set up camp outside their average American suburb. Just as they pitch their tents a viral outbreak occurs turning their town into the land of the living dead. Armed with nothing more than their scout badges the trio sets out to save Carter’s sister (slash Ben’s love interest) from the ghastly horde. What ensues is a variety of R-rated gags aimed at inciting laughter… and for the most part they’re successful.

It’s a ‘juvenile’ Film. Its plot is simple. Its dialog and characters are too. However, it must be noted that the Film is not trying to be anything but juvenile, and so it works for what it is. The most noticeable talent in the Film is Tye Sheridan who plays Ben. He’s developed a lot over the last three years (see his previous films Mud and Tree of Life), and his resume suggests he has a bright future ahead of him (especially as Scott Summers in 2016’s X-Men: Apocalypse).

In addition, the Moobahton (house & dancehall) beats supplied by Dillon Francis are very enjoyable. So is the DJ’s online campaign for the Film. So if you’re looking for a taste of what lies in store check-out his music video for “All That”. If you see something you like, (i.e. hot chicks, crude humor, and special effects make-up), be sure to see a Scout’s Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse, in theatres now via Paramount Pictures Canada.