This is destined to become a cult classic for a new generation. The zombie genre is so oversaturated that finding a truly good new film can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Luckily, after some digging, we’ve unearthed “Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse.” This film is a bloody, hilarious good time and will appeal to both younger horror fans raised on zombie pop culture and seasoned veterans who grew up on classics like “Evil Dead” and “Re-Animator.” While it may not be a mainstream hit, and it won’t appeal to everyone, “Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse” is pure, unadulterated fun from beginning to end, offering a comedic and gory take on the undead.
The film immediately establishes its intention to be a bucket of bloody fun in the opening scene. A hapless janitor, fiddling with laboratory equipment, encounters a comatose patient. Accidentally causing the patient to flatline, the janitor awkwardly attempts CPR. His efforts prove futile as he pushes his hands through the patient’s chest, inadvertently resurrecting the living dead, thus sparking the zombie outbreak. This sets the stage for a wild and ridiculous ride.
The humor in “Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse” ranges from the hilariously gruesome mutilation of corpses and wacky animal zombies to moments of pure slapstick stupidity. However, it remains entertaining every step of the way. A trampoline scene stands out, eliciting both cringes of disgust and hysterical laughter. A surreal rendition of a classic Britney Spears song also provides a memorable moment. The film’s climax seems inspired by the Dead Rising gaming franchise as the scouts use their skills to craft makeshift weapons from a hardware store for maximum zombie-killing effectiveness. This creative approach to combat adds a layer of absurdity and ingenuity to the chaos.
While the zombies are central to the story, the heart of the film lies in the friendship between Ben, Carter, and Augie. The dynamic between the characters feels reminiscent of 80s classics like “The Goonies” and “Stand By Me.” While not groundbreaking, the film embraces this nostalgia, feeling like a tribute to cult favorites such as “The Monster Squad.” The 80s spirit permeates the lively core of this horror comedy. It’s this blend of genuine camaraderie and over-the-top horror elements that makes the film so appealing.
As a dedicated horror fan, I appreciate feel-good films like this, that offer a balanced mix of gore, laughs, and gratuitous nudity. Ultimately, isn’t that what the best horror comedies are all about? “Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse” embraces the fun of the genre, delivering a hilarious and satisfying experience for those who appreciate a good dose of blood and laughs. It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously and invites the audience to join in on the absurdity.
