Latest screening: Zombieland

Simply one of the most entertaining films I’ve seen this year Zombieland is a must-see. From the moment Woody Harrelson’s credit comes up (when was the last time Harrelson got above-the-title top-billing and the movie got a theatrical release?) to the end credits you’ll have a heap of fun.

The film is far better than it has any right to be, and is no doubt aided by a lack of expectations. I went in thinking it would be a US Shaun Of The Dead rip-off, likely missing the mark at least as often, if not more, than it hit.

But no this is a fast, funny, hugely entertaining romp.

Harrelson reminds you of the charisma and easy laid-back charm that made him a star in Cheers and early hit movies like White Men Can’t Jump. Since the mid-90s he has seemingly become a caricature of himself and rarely impressed. He’s tried to break his curse with different roles like in Paul Schrader’s under-seen but still ultimately unsatisfying The Walker and an occasionally genuinely good role – his brief turn in the Coens’ No Country For Old Men unfortunately lost amongst a glut of stunning lead performances. Here he shines, playing with the persona he’s now known. You simply can’t believe he’s not a bigger star.

Jesse Eisenberg delivers a likeable twitchy Michael Cera-type character but whereas Cera is always one-note and overly mannered Eisenberg strikes the right balance of geeky loser and struggling everyman, proving a great foil and companion for Harrelson’s testerone-fuelled meat-head with a heart.

Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin also make a great pair as sisters who come into contact with Harrelson and Eisenberg. The group has a fun dynamic, each bringing something very different to the table for an entertaining whole.

And the cameo in this is awesome, just freakin’ awesome. If you don’t know who it is I won’t give it away but every moment this person is on screen is gold. Hands down the best use of a cameo star in a movie in a decade, probably more. The star’s response to an “any regrets?” line is everything a fan could want. Kudos to the actor and the filmmakers for this one.

At 80 minutes the movie flies by and if you have a more consistently entertaining 80 minutes in the cinema this year then I suspect you’ll be ejected for lewd conduct!

Go see it!