Return of the Living Dead (1985)

One-hit wonder ‘’Dan O’Bannon’’ launched yet another series of humorous zombie nonsense with his Return of the Living Dead. It’s without a doubt a must-see classic with impressive make-up effects and with all the expected 80’s stereotypes running around. Writing a review with a fresh point of view on this film is close to impossible, it’s all just so obvious.

When a bumbling pair of employees at a medical supply warehouse accidentally release a deadly gas into the air, the vapors cause the dead to re-animate as they go on a rampage through Louisville, Kentucky seeking their favorite food, brains. And brains they shall eat! And brains we shall see.

The first act of the film works like a charm. Dan O´Bannon immediately wins over the viewers sympathy with witty characters and quick storytelling. The movies´ pace is really high and this epic zombie classic definitely scores some unexpected points on that part. The action is quite consistent and the effects will never let you down, from the 50% dog scene ´till the incredible death scenes involving massive destruction of rotten zombies.


Bwaahhh braaaaains. Talking zombies? Running zombies? Sure! Why the heck not. Naked goth chick dancing on graves? Idiotic paramatics responding to a call for 'backup' by the most demonic voice you will ever hear? Sure, since it's a big + for the bodycount. Every scene and every move within the scene will be in favor of the ultimate goal: entertaining the living shit ot of you. And it really has no problem succeeding.

Both Glu Gulager and James Karen play brilliant parts. The conversations are always clever and therefor really enjoyable. It's one of the most important aspects of the film. Also, I should not forget to mention the soundtrack which just adds up on the pile of goodness making this zomcom result in an eighties orgasm of 'wrongs'.

What could you possibly hate? Nothing! Whoever reads this blog must have a passion for the genre and Dan O'Bannon translated exactly thát on screen. It's a mind blowing experience, funny as well as impressive. The Return of the Living Dead is a complete package and I'd say it's even better than 'Night of the Creeps'.


Score: 93/100