Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
2016 · Directed by Burr Steers
Original language: English
- romance
- horror
- comedy
- thriller
The story
A zombie outbreak has fallen upon the land in this reimagining of Jane Austen's classic tale of the tangled relationships between lovers from different social classes in 19th century England. Feisty heroine Elizabeth Bennet is a master of martial arts and weaponry and the handsome Mr. Darcy is a fierce zombie killer, yet the epitome of upper class prejudice. As the zombie outbreak intensifies, they must swallow their pride and join forces on the blood-soaked battlefield in order to conquer the undead once and for all.
What it’s like
Costume-drama polish laid over blood-spattered British countryside: candlelit drawing rooms and mud-churned lanes shot in soft, slightly desaturated period colour, with the sheen of Regency fabric against grey skies and dark, damp woodland. Framing borrows the stateliness of a prestige adaptation, with symmetrical interiors, measured dolly moves and wide establishing shots of estates, then cuts sharply into handheld, jolting action when the undead arrive. Sound swings between Georgian strings and piano and the wet crunch of combat, with stretches of near-silence before the next attack. The vibe is cheeky, bloody and brisk: a dry, tongue-in-cheek romance that never quite forgets it is a horror-comedy. Violence is frequent and graphic, with decapitations, gore and bodies torn apart, though it stays cartoonish rather than bleak. Suited to a fun Friday night with friends or a playful watch for people who like Austen's wit with a side of action. Not suitable for anyone who wants gentle viewing or a faithful, quiet period piece.
More films like Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
Closest in mood, pacing and theme. Tell us why you loved Pride and Prejudice and Zombiesand we’ll explain which ones fit you.
