One Cut Of The Dead Review

Exceptionally frantic and sincere, the zombie comedy One Cut Of The Dead from writer/director Shin'ichirô Ueda forges a transcendent and unexpectedly loving ode to filmmaking that results in an immensely refreshing take on the exhausted zombie trope. Beautifully self-aware and expressive, each element that the film introduces emanates originality and hilarity that erupts a unique authenticity out of the film, managing to perfectly blend great characters and plot points with gaspingly funny jokes. Infinitely charming and intelligent, Ueda’s fantastic execution in storytelling and directing makes One Cut Of The Dead an energetic and unforgettable film that inspires inventiveness.

One Cut Of The Dead follows a group of filmmakers shooting a zombie movie in an abandoned water filtration plant rumored to be formally used by the military for gruesome and horrific human experiments during the war. Helmed by an insane director who constantly berates the crew for better effects and more realistic performances, his prayers are oddly met when real zombies start to appear on set, propelling both the film they are making and One Cut Of The Dead itself into a profoundly meta experience.

Every aspect of the film is masked in a bold self-awareness that adds many unforeseen components that Ueda expertly guides to wonderfully fantastic payoffs. Ueda exemplifies an ambitious approach that could have made everything completely fall apart, but every element that unfolds adds dimensions to the film that constantly deliver. Ultimately, One Cut Of The Dead is most enjoyable when it’s most self-aware, executing a masterclass of jokes that accentuates the love and care put into each scene.

Whether it’s the attractiveness of a familiar name or the excitement of an enthralling trailer, it's far too common nowadays for movies to gain hype before they hit theatres. However, every so often a film receives a sort of publicity after it’s released that makes many question the legitimacy of the claims. This is the case for One Cut Of The Dead, and it deserves every ounce of praise that it receives. Enchantingly clever and hilarious, One Cut Of The Dead is a treat made sweeter when you finally begin to realize Ueda’s creative narrative intentions, adding a layer to the film that will make you envious of those experiencing it for the first time.

Incredibly funny and shockingly inventive, One Cut Of The Dead is compelling storytelling that oozes charm and character.

Produced By: Shudder
Runtime: 96 minutes
Rating: NR