The Dead - Probably for `old school' zombie fans only

`The Dead' - a pretty simple title for a pretty simple film. As many have commented, it feels a lot like an early George A Romero zombie movie. It's got no major stars or film-makers attached, so there's a chance you probably haven't heard about it.

As far as story goes, there's not much to tell - zombies have risen and are taking over the world (mainly Africa here). The last US-based flight out of the country crashes and the sole survivor - a mercenary - must make his way across Africa in the hope of escape.

Since `Dawn of the Dead' (remake 2004), '28 Days Later' and, most recently, `World War Z,' we've been spoiled for zombie movies - all of which are big budget, fast-moving action affairs with big-budget effects and set pieces. The Dead is not one of these. It's been made on a shoestring budget, so don't expect much in the way of action.

Personally, I really enjoyed it, but, judging by the other reviews, opinions are divided. It's lack of action does make it `slow.' If you don't like `shuffler' zombies and no real shoot-outs, then you may not go for this. Plus there are only two major characters (and they're the `strong and silent' military types), so don't expect too much in the way of dialogue from them.

Then there's the scenery, or rather the setting. The deserts and villages of Africa make a welcome change to the usual American/British towns and cities normally featured in zombie films.

If you can stomach another zombie movie among so many and you don't mind a slow-moving (and beautifully-shot) one, then you might like to give this one a go.

7/10 if I woke up on Groundhog Day and had to watch this again, I could live with that