monnysmortuary

This is the second short release by rising star of horror directors. So stunning are his first two releases that it is easy to run out of superlatives to describe the work of Shaun R. Smith. This film, 'The Soldier', is a quazi remake / re-imagining of his earlier amateur attempts into the film-making forey. But when stood side by side it is easy to see the huge leaps forward he has made to professional standards. The Soldier concerns genetic testing by Nazis during the second world war on captured allied soldiers and the havoc that ensues when the experiments go wrong, resulting in death and mutilation for both waring factions. This short film is only a glimpse at a much larger project Mr. Smith has planned, which, for anyone who has viewed this mini masterpiece, will be eagerly anticipated. Forget Romero, Carpenter & Craven....... Shaun Robert Smith is the new Master of Horror!

I have seen this film a few times, the first of which was the day I bought it for 99p from a video store that was closing down. Initailly bought on the back of Scott Grimes sterling work in the first two Critters movies. But what a treat. This not your A-typical zombie flick. Though a lot of the rules have been preserved from the other undead features that have gone before this one adds its own twist. Scott Grimes plays Archie, the assistant to a crotchety old undertaker. Being the loser that he is, naturally he falls for the hottest girl in town who happens to date the local jock, and Archie's sworn enemy. However following a car wreck things change and now Archie must spend the night running for his life as the undead are in pursuit. All in all a good, fun film. It never takes itself seriously without resorting to being stupid. Fans of Return of the Living Dead should check this out!

If you liked this movie then I would also recommend another obscure zombie twist with THE VIDEO DEAD if you can find a copy.

Also released under the title of GRAVE MISDEMEANOURS!