Braindead aka Dead Alive (1992)

Director: Peter Jackson

Starring: Timothy Balme, Diana Peñalver, Elizabeth Moody

A young man’s mother is bitten by a Sumatran rat-monkey. She gets sick and dies, at which time she comes back to life, killing and eating dogs, nurses, friends, and neighbors.

Not to be confused with 1990’s ‘Brain Dead’ starring Bill Paxton. ‘Braindead (aka Dead Alive) is NOT a film you want to show at just any movie night. This is NOT for the faint of heart.

Who would have thought the director of this weird, demented film would go on to direct the greatest movies of all time (Lord of the Rings trilogy)? Yup, it’s Peter Jackson.

Be forewarned, there are more blood, guts, limbs and gore here than you’ll see in any other film. It is violent and graphic. Some scenes are so graphic that they are difficult to stomach. The fact that the film is made as a comedy makes it more tolerable. A number of scenes are downright vile and disgusting. The prosthetics are amazingly realistic!

The story is interesting and the acting above average – especially Timothy Balme as the film’s nerdy hero, Lionel. Elizabeth Moody is also fantastic as Mum. I also absolutely loved Stuart Devenie as Father McGruder.

The film takes us on a wild and chaotic ride where you never quite know what to expect. This is probably the most grotesque comedy you’ll ever see, and by far the weirdest – and bloodiest – zombie film. ‘Braindead’ definitely is an acquired taste. How can a film this disgusting be so good and entertaining?

‘Braindead’ received several award nominations, winning 14, including Best Director, Best Film, Best Special Effects, Best Screenplay, Best Contribution to Design, Best Actor (Timothy Balme).

Would I watch it again? Wow, wait, give my nerves time to calm…