Imagine a romantic comedy where the third wheel is not another lover, but a horde of zombies. That's exactly what you get in the 2019 film 'Little Monsters', directed by Abe Forsythe. Set in Australia, this film is a mash-up of horror, comedy, and heartwarming moments, starring Lupita Nyong'o as Miss Caroline, an infinitely patient and charming kindergarten teacher. Alongside her, we have Alexander England playing Dave, a down-and-out musician, who is still reeling from a break-up and generally drifting through life. This little adventure brings them to a petting zoo with a class of kindergarteners, a place you'd least expect the undead to mosey around, right? Sadly, when a zombie outbreak occurs, ordinary sightseeing turns into an unexpected life-or-death scenario.
What's genius about 'Little Monsters' is how it blends genres often considered mismatched. Horror and comedy have played together before, but injecting heartfelt moments in a film filled with blood and guts requires a delicate balance. Here, Forsythe pulls it off by not losing sight of the film's core: human relationships and personal growth. For Dave, tagging along on this school outing originally meant another chance to be close to Miss Caroline. What he doesn't count on is learning something crucial about responsibility and selflessness when faced with the undead.
The appeal of 'Little Monsters' lies in how it addresses themes of redemption and transformation, using the zombie backdrop as metaphorical clutter that forces the characters to confront their issues. Dave, portrayed deftly by England, is the everyman with a significant knack for avoiding mature responsibilities. His journey is significant to many young adults who feel stuck or directionless, making him relatable and ultimately endearing.
Nyong'o's Miss Caroline, however, is the film's vital force. Her dedication to the children is unwavering, even when growling undead are just a fence away. With charisma, she keeps the kids calm, convincing them it's all part of an elaborate game. In stark contrast to Dave's self-centered past, she exemplifies compassion and leadership. It isn't just about surviving zombies but about protecting the innocence of her young wards.
While the film's plot unfurls through comedic chaos, it doesn't shy away from more serious undertones. The presence of innocent children juxtaposed against the menacing zombies prompts a reflection on how society protects its young and the innocence of youth amid chaos. Miss Caroline's classroom becomes a safe zone, not only physically but emotionally—a bubble where childhood remains sacred, even as danger looms.
Yet, 'Little Monsters' isn't preachy. The humor, ranging from slapstick to clever banter, keeps the tone light without undermining the stakes. Josh Gad plays Teddy McGiggle, a children’s television host who becomes an unlikely part of this troop's survival mission. His character adds absurd comedic relief but also reflects self-interest and cowardice, traits that don't seem far-fetched in a world where we sometimes prioritize ourselves over others.
It's essential to recognize that 'Little Monsters' offers a bit of social commentary wrapped in its playful premise. The film explores themes of parenthood, community, and change amid chaos. As a politically liberal commentator, the subtle critique of our societal approach to safeguarding innocence and the importance of collective effort in times of distress resonates deeply. Even when systems collapse, individuals have the power to create safe havens.
Some might argue the film doesn't break new ground in either the rom-com or zombie genres, using tropes we've seen in other hits like 'Shaun of the Dead' or 'Zombieland'. However, its fresh take on redemption and unexpectedly delightful performances justify its place in modern cinema. It tells us that growth often stems from the least expected circumstances and that courage isn't the absence of fear but persevering despite it.
Contrary views might suggest that its genre-bending attempts make it neither scary nor laugh-out-loud funny—but that's a subjective take. For those open to exploring how such elements intertwine with sincerity, 'Little Monsters' offers an enjoyable ride.
Additionally, it conveys a message of hope and resilience, crucial for today's youth who face a world rife with uncertainty. It's an important reminder that, sometimes, nurturing a sense of humor and empathy might be the best survival gear in unpredictable terrains.
'Little Monsters' reimagines the generally bleak survival narrative associated with zombie movies by infusing it with warmth and love. For Gen Z, who are often defined as digital natives facing their unique world challenges, it’s a movie that entertains while instilling some valuable nuggets of wisdom—a delicate dance between laughing at the absurdities of life and understanding its deeper meanings.