Rule #1: Know the subject matter:

Zombieland is a comedy that follows four uninfected people trying to survive in a world where almost everyone else has transformed into a zombie. A large part of what makes the movie great is that the creators know it is a zombie comedy and at no point try to make it otherwise. The movie does not waste time on the origins and spread of the virus and neither does it focus on saving the world.

At times the jokes are simple or silly. It may not be the funniest movie of the year, but what it may lack in comedy, it is well supplemented with action and zombie gore that makes the movie entertaining from start to finish.

Rule #2: Get the right people:

Although all four main characters provide solid performances, it is the men that easily steal the show. Jesse Eisenburg plays Columbus, a teenager who is not very social but dreams of the day he can brush a woman’s hair around her ear. Through his lack of emotional care for other humans he develops a set of stringent rules on surviving the zombie apocalypse. These well thought out rules form a significant basis of the movie’s comedy.

Woody Harrelson does an outstanding job playing Tallahassee. Contrary to the personality to Columbus, Tallahassee only has one main rule: Being the best at zombie killing. It is when these contrasting characters share the scene that the movie truly shines.

Rule #3: Have a great cameo:  

As is becoming common with comedies these days, Zombieland also has a cameo. I do not want to give much away. I am only going to tell you that the cameo is one of the best comedy cameos I’ve seen.

Final Word: By focusing on action, comedy and zombie gore the creators of the movie have the right formula to be successful in this blended genre. The conflicting, contrasting and unique characters give the movie a soul that makes it a memorable experience.  

Genre: Comedy

Studio: Columbia Pictures

Starring: