Review of Pontypool (2009) by Andy W — 16 Oct 2009

An interesting and different take on the zombie / apocalyptic horror genre, albeit a slightly odd take on the genre too.

The film takes place within the confines of a small radio station studio in the town of Pontypool, Ontario Canada, in the town of Pontypool something isn't quite right. Grant Mazzy the local shock jock DJ turns up to work the early morning shift after seeing a strange woman rambling erratically at him on the road. Soon enough reports begin to pour in over the airwaves about various incidents of antisocial behaviour including mass riots and murderous, cannibalistic activity, leaving Mazzy and his two female colleagues confused and in disbelief as to whether these reports be true or somekind of hoax.

Instead of actually seeing any of the action the viewer is encouraged to use their imagination as you are only given snippets of information over the airwaves, as are the characters which allows you to identify and connect with them. This way you are able to feel and share their anxiety, confusion and eventually their fear.

The film also has a dry, black sense of humour running through it, especially in the character of Mazzy who's cynicism and take no prisoners attitude to his job and the transpiring events raises some smirks and the occasional chuckle. The revelation of what has caused these events to transpire is something completely out of left field, albeit very original and slightly humorous to be perfectly honest.

A bizarre but effective take on a genre that has become stale of late, you could do a lot worse than giving Pontypool a try.