28 Days Later (2002)

28 Days Later

• Man, this rewatch was a long time coming. The first time I saw this, it was a couple years ago, and I thought it was good, but nothing mind blowing. However, after seeing it a second time, with a more improved film mindset, I can appreciate the absolute greatness of this. I can solidly say it’s one of the best zombie movies ever, whether you want to classify it as a zombie movie or not. One of the things this film does best is focus more on characters and how they survive with each other, opposed to how they survive against the infected. It’s almost philosophical at times. The story is one that makes you think and feel for the characters, while still having intimidating and terrifying zombies. The fact that they move at the same speed as humans makes them very scary to me. I also love how they resemble sick people, rather than your classic zombie look. The acting is fantastic from most of the supporting roles, especially Murphy, Gleeson, and Harris. They all bring out natural chemistry and emotion, to the point where you feel like everything that’s happening to them is happening to you. The score by John Murphy is fast paced, heart pumping, and adds much drama to the already tense plot. Especially the entire third act. It almost feels like an action movie. Lastly, the film is wonderfully shot, and maybe a top ten best shot film of all time. The cinematography is just incredible on all levels. There’s so many angles and movements that put the film into another dimension. All the quick shots and close ups make you almost feel claustrophobic, which intensifies the fear you’re already feeling. Genius work from everyone involved. Overall, this is one of the best zombie movies ever made, and I’m hoping the next two sequels will live up to this. I know they probably won’t, but one can hope. I’d recommend this to all horror/thriller fans. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!