When Jane Austen wrote her famous 1813 novel ‘Pride and
Prejudice’, it’s doubtful she would have imagined zombies invading her
space. In an era where new twists are spun on classic stories, ‘Pride and
Prejudice and Zombies’ marks its own ghoulish spot. Amidst the pomp and
circumstance of genteel nobility, the undead rise to ravage Austen’s
characters. What follows is mostly fiendish fun even if Austen scholars
will most likely disapprove of such spectral antics.
In 19th century Britain, a mysterious plague
blights the land. Soon overrun by the living dead, the denizens of
Britain’s high society decide to fight. One is Elizabeth Bennett (Lily
James) an expert in martial arts and weaponry. Along with suitor Mr.
Darcy (Sam Riley), she aims to rid her country of the zombie menace even while
wearing the tightest of corseted garments.
‘Pride and Prejudice and Zombies’ utilises its gimmicky
mash-up of Austen and Zombies to its fullest effect. Most of the time it
works a treat as deadly earnest dramatics amongst characters wonderfully clash
with zombie horrors. Whilst enjoyable the central conceit tends to
quickly run out of steam as does its sense of humour. This is meant to be
a ridiculous movie diving into the concept with glee, which it only
occasionally does.
The cast rise above such niggles with aplomb. Riley
and James ensure their characters embody the chemistry Austen’s prose
brought. They do the ‘star-crossed lovers’ thing well even when battling
grisly Ghoulies. Burr Steers ensures his direction isn’t too heavy-handed
showing stylish flair with well-staged action sequences. The gloriously
kept old English buildings are always pleasing on the eye with 19th
Century vividly brought to life by stunning cinematography.
Less fun than it should have been, ‘Pride and Prejudice and
Zombies’ still offers diverting viewing. It will be interesting seeing
what other classic novels can be twisted around with Shakespeare’s works surely
next in line to merge with modern genre staples.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 6
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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