Gay
Zombie
Michael Simon
20 Minute Short
The motif of the Zombie in folklore,
literature and film has had a very long history, ranging from Haitian Voodoun to
revenants in Medieval folklore through to classic horror tales and the violent
cannibalistic flesh eaters of modern films ranging from Dawn of the Dead to
Shaun of the Dead. The imagery of the zombie also seems to have a certain
pattern and symbolic resonance. The Zombie being dead, is outside normal human
restrictions and hence in a sense, more in contact with its bodily functions
without the constraints of psychological and emotional restrictions.
Accordingly, it is seen that the Zombie divorced from life, has a more
insightful perception of the human condition – they can be interpreted as
representations of the ultimate “Outsider”.
This approach has particular
significance when related to issues regarding sexuality. The Gay Zombie while
only a 20 minute short, intelligently juxtaposes the difficulties of coming to
terms with ones sexuality with the nature of being undead. This is not only
amusing but quite poignant – Miles may be able to accept he eats flesh but not
that he is gay. (The humour play on concepts and words is also quite relevant).
As the plot unfold various subtexts are
also explored including acceptance of diversity within the gay community and
the nature of love and friendship. There is lots of good natured humour (I love
Zombie make over) and great acting. The look of Miles is superb, not too much
or too little make-up and hence he is both appealing and disturbing at the same
time.
The balance stuck between horror, dark
humour and pathos is well managed and the reflective ending reminding us of the
importance of getting the most from life is a nice touch.
Gay Zombie has been a selection at over
sixty official movie festivals worldwide and is definitely worth seeing.