Blog 3: Zombie’s Advocate

                 For my research paper I’m researching why zombies are so popular in 2012. In fact, the popularity of zombies has been growing since the early 2000’s. My essay will argue that zombie’s became popular because of the worlds change in tone after 9/11. Specifically, zombie films and other mediums offer people a cathartic release to fears in modern society. One of the biggest flaws in my argument is that zombie films have been around since the 60’s, and many of the best films in the genre come from that era.

                While this is true, quality does not equal popularity. I agree that Dawn of the Dead (1978) is one of the best zombie films ever made, however it was not a box office smash at the time. It had a cult audience to be sure, but it never amounted to the heights The Walking Dead (2010) has in terms of cultural relevance. I would also argue that older zombie films have received a revival after the Zombie Renaissance (2002 – onwards). Zombies have always had their share of cult classics, but the mainstream exposure has never amounted to what it is in 2012.

Dredd 3D review

During the summer I saw a trailer for what looked like a dark and mysterious movie, with La Roux's "In for the Kill" playing in the background. The trailer was for a new "Dredd" movie, based off the Judge Dredd comics. Like a lot of other people, I laughed at the notion. The only experience I've had with the Dredd universe was the Sylvester Stallone "Judge Dredd" film from '95. Although the original is hilarious, it can't necessarily be referred to as a good movie. So all I had to go on was my knowledge of the terrible '95 film, and an interesting, if somewhat uninspired trailer. Being a huge comic book movie film fan, I decided to check it out. I wasn't expecting much. When I actually saw the film, my jaw dropped. Dredd 3D is one of most refreshing action films I've seen, and one of the best movies I've seen all year.

 The plot follows Judge Dredd, a bad ass futuristic cop that is the “Judge, jury and executioner” allowing him to kill at will. In a crime ridden city of megacity of 800 million, people live in “mega complexes” that can hold up to 70,000 people. Dredd is introduced to the beautiful rookie Judge Anderson, and has to take her on her first day of training. Dredd and Anderson investigate a murder in a megacity, a sting that turns sour. The cult leader of the megacities biggest gang traps Dredd and Anderson in this mega complex, and they spend the movie having to fight their way out.

 The plot may sound very basic, and in truth it is. But that’s what’s so refreshing about Dredd, it is violent, brutal, and straight to the point. And this film is BRUTAL. The violence is extremely over the top and satisfying, some of the most violent scenes I’ve seen in a while. The movie deserves its R rating.

 Stylistic, Dredd is also extremely refreshing. The film introduces a drug called “slo-mo”, which slows down time and makes everything look beautiful. The action scenes that take place in the “slo-mo” time are simply beautiful to look at.

 Dredd 3D flopped in the theatres, due to the horrible ’95 film, uninspired advertising, and a lack of interest from the public. Mark my words when I say that Dredd will become a cult success, akin to Fight Club. Do yourself a favor, see it.

(HD) Judge Dredd - YOU BETRAYED THE LAW!!!!