Feb. 05, 2021|India|125 Min.|PG
Genre: Adventure;Comedy;Drama;Horror;South;Indian;Thriller
Description: Zombie Reddy is a 2021 zombie comedy film that blends humor with horror in a uniquely Indian style. Unlike the intense zombie narratives of “World War Z” or “I Am Legend,” this movie leans toward the lighter, more comedic tone seen in films like “Shaun of the Dead,” “Go Goa Gone,” and “Zombieland.” Directed by Prasanth Varma, the story is infused with local flavor, combining elements of Telugu culture, including factionalism, emotional family ties, and themes of friendship, betrayal, and action.
The plot follows Mario (Teja Sajja), a game developer whose latest project is on the brink of failure. Alongside his group of friends, including Maggi (Daksha Nagarkar), an enthusiastic gamer, Mario travels to Rudravaram in Kurnool to seek help from his friend RJ Hemanth, who is about to get married. Nandini Reddy (Anandhi) is also present at the wedding celebration. However, their plans take a drastic turn when they find themselves battling real-life zombies instead of virtual ones. Together, they must work to save the day before the zombie virus spreads further.
Prasanth Varma’s direction shines through the film’s technical aspects. The slow-motion action sequences are engaging, and the zombie makeup is impressively executed. The fight scenes, whether against humans or zombies, are well-choreographed. Mark K Robin’s music, particularly the track “Go Corona Go” and the background score, leaves a lasting impact, complemented by Anith’s vibrant cinematography. The film even includes a hint about its conclusion early on, showcasing Varma’s signature storytelling style.
However, the humor in “Zombie Reddy” falls short of expectations. Despite being marketed as a zombie comedy, the film’s comedic moments are sparse and often rely on overused Tollywood clichés. Additionally, the potential of the zombie characters and their traits is not fully explored. The incorporation of Coronavirus and lockdown themes feels forced and less integrated into the narrative. Overall, while the movie excels technically, its comedic elements fail to elevate the viewing experience.
Cast director: Prasanth Varma
Cast actor: Teja Sajja, Anandhi, Daksha Nagarkar, Raghu Babu, Prudhviraj, Getup Srinu, Tripuraneni Chitti, Raghu Karumanchi, Annapoorna, Kireeti Damaraju
Original name: Zombie Reddy