Twenty three years after failing to complete a massive pub crawl known as "The Golden Mile," a group of friends reunite in their hometown, hoping to once again attempt the near-impossible feat. Taken aback by how odd the townsfolk are acting, and by their eerily calm demeanors, the group discovers that everything is not what it seems in their childhood abodes and pubs. After a scuffle at the fourth bar, they scramble to survive among a town seemingly taken over by mechanical or alien invaders.
Edgar Wright is a fascinating director. First making his mark overseas with the cult hit sitcom Spaced, which I am currently in the midst of watching, he's mostly built his name based on word of mouth, and has worked with several A-list actors along the way. And yet, he still never receives the amount of love and respect that he truly deserves. I'm somewhat reluctant to call him the British equivalent of Kevin Smith, given that his dialogue is far less pretentious than Smith's, he hasn't degenerated into a whiney, blubbering idiot whenever he receives criticism in the 21st century, and due to not having mediocre titles like Cop Out under his belt. But, like Smith, he is a man who loves his pop culture targeted towards us fellow geeks, and most likely isn't ashamed to be identified as one. Released earlier this year in U.K. cinemas, The World's End is Wright's third film in the "Cornetto Trilogy," following up Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. If you're unsure of the meaning behind that nickname, I suggest a quick google search. It may give you a craving for ice cream.
One thing to take away immediately after this movie has wrapped up is its absolutely great and memorable fight sequences. Wright is very unappreciated in his knack for them, proving he could direct great action scenes when called for with his two previous efforts, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World and Hot Fuzz. The first fight in the men's bathroom and a separate brawl initiated by Nick Frost in particular stand out, with excellent choreography and creativity (especially in the latter). Speaking of Nick Frost, this may have been the best thing I've seen him in, be it Wright-directed or not. Playing against type works well for him, and when the time to "be real" comes about, he becomes one of the film's most likable and most personable leads. Simon Pegg is always great, and like Frost, plays against type as a more boisterous and obnoxious lead. At first, you may find it hard to root for him, especially if you're a more tightly wound individual, but his comedic chops and lines will win you over. I will have to be honest though: as much as I praised everyone doing a commendable or flat out great job here, it is a little easy to become lost in figuring out who is who. With Frost and Pegg it isn't difficult, as they are very distinct-looking actors, and those more well-versed in modern British cinema may find little difficulty with this. But me? I had trouble determining who was who, save for scarce reminders from said characters of memories from their past.
Like In A World..., there's a rather good and proper balance of sentimental moments that advance the story forward instead of dragging it down. And like Identity Thief, which I hate to bring up in this review, the message of spicing up your life once in a while is again present, though handled infinitely better than that tripe could ever hope to do. In previous efforts, Wright has thrown out nods aplenty to classics in the genre he is paying homage to, this time particularly focusing on science fiction films. Off the top of my head, I spotted Invasion of the Body Snatchers, The Thing, War of the Worlds, and Aliens. I'm certain that there are a good number that I missed, but like Hot Fuzz, it will warrant repeated screenings in order to spot them. Well, and to increase overall enjoyment and longevity in the minds of viewers. There's also a nice appearance from Pierce Brosnan in the film, upping the James Bond appearances in Wright's films to two. I would love to see him drag Sean Connery out of retirement for a small role in a future film, but that isn't likely to happen anytime soon.
The World's End is a very good movie to watch with friends, and made all the better having drinks within reach, though for a large portion of it, the film may not be particularly kind towards the non-alcoholic drink fans. Is it my favorite comedy of the year? Time will tell on that, but I can most certainly assure you that it is a great time to be had. Thankfully it has made back its budget, and isn't exactly bombing like some would have thought would happen. It would be wise for you to give your hard-earned money to this picture rather than another mediocre ripoff of Twilight or The Hunger Games anyway.
On another note, I would like to throw out a quick reminder that October is around the corner, meaning that the next iteration of UNSEEN TERROR is coming! Films are being prepared, and thankfully time won't be nearly as strict this year as it was in 2012 (though the budget may be low due to hospital bills). Another thirty one horror films I've never seen in thirty one days! This should be prove to be great fun as always, and I encourage you to join in, be it physically or even through twitter/facebook!
Stay tuuuuuneeeeddd.....
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