Train to Busan (2016)

User Review

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  TheMovieDiorama

  8 / 10

  Train to Busan is easily one of the best modern zombie thrillers. Flipping heck this was an emotional rollercoaster. It's a simple formulaic plot: we follow a family or group of people, a viral outbreak occurs, lots of biting and blood whilst ending with some sacrifices. "Go! Save yourselves! I'll hold them off"...y'know, that kind of heroism. We've seen it all before. What makes this refreshing and exciting is the actual emotional connection we form with the characters. They aren't all just expendable, they do indeed have some soul. A struggling father to a daughter, a pregnant woman with her devoted partner, a young loved up couple...and a COO of a massive company. Before I begin, I have to let off some steam. The COO was the biggest (try not to swear!)...ummm...coward ever (phew...that'll do). He absolutely boiled my blood. Infuriated the flip out of me. I stood up and simply shouted "SOMEONE KILL HIM ALREADY!?". Yet somehow I related to him. In fact I related to most of the characters, they each had individual strands of different personalities that made the plot compelling. It's about self-sacrifice and willing to help others rather than being selfish. Our lead character undergoes this transformation exquisitely, the pressure of survival moulded him into a better human being. It isn't just "oh my God zombies, let's run this way!!" (although that is present), there's some heart within the frantic action which I found to be admirable. Extremely well paced for a two hour flick, didn't get bored once. The makeup for the infected looked authentic. Plenty of blood, dark veins and a really nice touch with the grey eyes. I was on the edge of my seat on multiple occasions particularly during the chase scenes. The cinematography was clean and sharp, incredible picture quality. I did find the visual effects to be below average, especially fires or breaking of glass. CGI zombies are kept to a minimal but is unfortunately used. Also punching the infected just relinquishes the fear of them, I was no longer scared of them. However, a damn entertaining train ride.

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