2004
Director: Edgar Wright
Writers: Simon Pegg, Edgar Wright
Stars: Simon Pegg Nick Frost, Kate Ashfield
Well, what to say, one of the key productions of the early 2,000s, Shaun of the Dead not only ushered in an endless wave of comedy horror films, it also – along with 28 Days Later – was a key instigator of the zombie genre which would prove so popular in Britain over the following years. It’s a great film, laugh-out-loud funny, but also immaculately made, featuring some surprisingly effective graphic and action scenes.
Rating: 9/10
When Sex Lives of the Potato Men came out, I suggested the dilemma facing the British film industry was whether to put the gun barrel to our heads or in our mouths. But with the release of Shaun of the Dead, I’m inclined to say the dilemma is whether to opt for Moët or Veuve Clicquot. Because this cheerful horror comedy, starring and co-written by Simon Pegg of Channel 4’s Spaced, is as smart as paint. It’s pacily directed, nicely acted and boasts a script crammed with real gags.
Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian, 09/04/2004
A surprisingly good TV transfer for the Spaced crew. It may not exactly be Ealing, but it’s funny for long stretches. Even when in danger of self-destructing, it cadges laughs with smart lines, silly observations or blokish inside jokes about zombie movies, video games and pub nibbles.
Kim Newman, Empire, 01/01/2000