By Jameson Shank

Zombieland follows nerdy Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg), a college-age loner who is afraid of everything around him. He creates a list of “survival tips” to help him stay alive as he travels from Houston, Texas back to his home in Ohio. Along the way, runs into Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), a tough-as-nails southerner whose passion for zombie killing is second only to his love of Twinkies.  

The duo continue on, one hoping that his parents aren’t undead, the other eager to score one of the last Twinkies in existence. They eventually meet survivors Wichita (Emma Stone) and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin). The two sisters shamelessly con them into giving up their weapons and then steal their ride. The four survivors cross paths again and decide to join forces to better their chances of survival.

Despite the title Zombieland, which suggests plenty of grueling terror, this film actually some funny and touching moments. Columbus and Tallahassee both have unique quirks that make them enjoyable to watch. There is some gratuitous violence, but it’s done in a tongue in cheek way, making even the most brutal of kills entertaining. There is also a surprise cameo about halfway through the film that is sure to make you crack a smile.  I won’t ruin it for you, but it only adds to the enjoyable feel of the movie.

The film relies heavily on its four characters because they are basically the only ones with a pulse. Thankfully the cast is fresh and entertaining, except maybe Eisenberg. He is far from bad, but is guilty of playing pretty much the same character he did in his previous film, Adventureland. Also, if you were expecting nonstop undead carnage, then you might be disappointed by the lack of zombies in the film. They’re there, but the story isn’t really built around them; it’s built around the four survivors.

Bottom line: If you are looking solely for comedy, or solely for blood and gore, chances are Zombieland will disappoint you. But if you don’t mind a little bit of everything—gory thrills, humor, and a dash of heart, then you will very much like this movie.

Rated R for horror violence/gore and language. 87 minutes