MOVIE REVIEW: Zombieland (15)

Remember Woody Harrelson? A big hit in the 90’s, the hemp-loving Texan spent most of this decade starring in small productions, or in smaller parts in big movies such as ‘No Country For Old Men’ and ‘Seven Pounds.’ Now he’s back with a starring role, this time in horror-comedy ‘Zombieland.’

The title refers to Columbus’ (Jesse Eisenberg) nickname for America, now a wasteland after a zombie apocalypse wipes out most of the human race. Surviving by a stringent set of ‘rules’ (‘beware bathrooms’, ‘don’t be a hero’, ‘limber up’), Columbus lives a lonely existence until he meets Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), a twinky-loving redneck who gives him a ride. On their way, they are double-crossed by two sisters, Wichita (Emma Stone) and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin). The pairs keep trying to outdo each other until an uneasy alliance is formed, but soon they find that when it comes to surviving Zombieland, it pays to stick together.

The comedy element may lead you to think this will be in danger of being a little light, but this is no dreadful spoof a la ‘Scary Movie’, but a terribly funny road film with added undead. The plot is a little flimsy, but the little details (Columbus’ rules, Tallahassee’s back-story, all the characters using their destinations instead of names) keep you interested, as do the blistering action sequences.

Another element that makes this a winner is the cast, who have great chemistry and make a great team. Harrelson’s ultra-macho cowboy is a return to his early 90’s persona, and is the best thing about this film. The charismatic dimwit may not be a new routine, but it’s one he makes his own. Eisenberg, for whom 2009 has seen him star in two highly-anticipated movies, is slightly more likeable in this than in the former film. Whereas in ‘Adventureland’ he was like a cut-price Michael Cera, here he’s just the right balance - wimpy but not cowardly, funny without being just comic relief. Stone and Breslin are entertaining but their roles are purely support despite having some funny moments.

Throw in a bullet-soaked finale, plus the world’s most AMAZING cameo, and you’ve got a movie it’s hard not to love. Maybe not an award-winner, but you’ll struggle to find a more fun movie.