Writer/Director: Jonathan Levine
Based on novel by Isaac Marion
Starring: Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, and John Malkovich
‘Captivating Zombie Comedy’
Originality is a rare quality seldom seen in movies. Even when a film is based off a novel, there is nothing quite like originality. It brings forth a completely unique and different experience for audiences around the world. Thing is, after an extended period of watching typical, formulaic movies, one does get tired. However, when a person has an experience they have never had before, a film has already somewhat succeeded.
“Warm Bodies” is based off source material alright, but for those who haven’t read the book, the film is in a way original. Over the last decade or so, nothing as vibrant or quirky has come along in this movie’s genre. It is a huge advantage for a film like this to impress and it sure does.
Starring Nicholas Hoult in the title role, “Warm Bodies” is the story of a very unusual zombie named R. Tired of his lifestyle, R forms a relationship with a human named Julie (Teresa Palmer). Together, they both set out to save a dangerous, zombie-infected world.
After blending drama and comedy in a difficult subject with “50/50”, director Jonathan Levine returns to tackle something different. The comedy element is still present, but Levine’s latest feature “Warm Bodies” is in contrast, a hopeful letter to those who have grown sick of a fading genre. Lets face the truth. Over the course of many years, there has been a recent decline in the quality of teen romances. Book-to-movie adaptations such as “Twilight” haven’t really contributed to the genre. Although it centers on a zombie-human relationship, “Warm Bodies” can be counted as a teen-romance.
From a creative opening sequence that features a fascinating narrative, “Warm Bodies” proves to be a delightful surprise on nearly every level. An unexpected treat that is unlike anything you’ll ever see. Levine’s film is a funny and quirky tale that works splendidly due to a fantastic script and impressive performances. Surprised? Well so am I. Completely. In the beginning of the year, Hollywood has a bad habit of producing formulaic, disposable films, yet “Warm Bodies” is far from that. It is one of the very best movies of the year.
What really pushes this film to being more than just a romance, is its charming screenplay. In a genre that hasn’t fared well in terms of scripts, “Warm Bodies” goes beyond the boundaries of what we expect from any other movie of its type. The script has well-developed characters and refreshing dialogue, with a thoroughly effective narrative that makes the main character very likable and resonant.
The entire cast is excellent, filled with some unknown actors who impress. Nicholas Hoult’s performance is one of the main highlights that hold this film together. As the main character, Hoult immerses himself into the role of a zombie who acts like a human. Makeup aside, the actor manages to make the lead character very interesting and memorable. Despite being a newcomer in the industry, Hoult really pushes his status as a star. It makes one look forward to what he could accomplish in the future.
“Warm Bodies” is great entertainment, both quirky and revitalizing. When the latest trend in teen romances has become disposable films, it really is astonishing to see something that is not only funny, but also out of the ordinary.
In a genre that has faced a declined in popularity, it’s a reassuring reminder that zombie movies haven’t lost their abilities to engage when telling warm stories of lovers which manage to overcome apocalyptic adversities.
4/5 stars
The Film Buff 
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