[REC] - 2007

In the quasi-scientific style of 28 Days Later, [REC] is a modern take on the classic zombie formula. Following a Spanish fire station's response to an emergency call, tv reporter (Angela) and her cameraman (Pablo) become trapped inside a quarantined apartment building due to government fears of a virus outbreak. The movie follows their attempts to survive and escape as the virus spreads.

Since the film is shot from the viewpoint of Pablo's camera, it logically uses the shakey POV technique that has been popping up in recent years. Unlike 28 Weeks Later, which also came out last year, [REC] pulls it off extremely well. Rarely disorienting except for a few select moments of distress, the bobbing camerawork greatly helps immersion, putting the viewer in the unseen spot of Pablo.

Unlike most horror movies, [REC] keeps a simple, logical plot and allows the characters to retain a decent level of intelligence. Aside from a small, decently clever explanation at the end of the film, the movie doesn't take time constructing weak reasons for the virus and its effects, and the infected do not break the believability. There are no absurd stalking super zombies (lookin at you, 28 Weeks Later) - [REC]'s enemies are truly mindless, angry humans, with all the weakness and disregard one would associate with them. The people trapped in the building are left to their own rational pursuits - namely, survival. Once they understand what's happening, they do what is in their means to get away.

The atmosphere is handled well, never stooping to cheap tricks to keep the suspense up. Infected attacks are isolated and punctuated; quick, brutal encounters to maintain the flow. Gore is suitably present (it is a zombie movie), but in moderate, logical amounts. Overall, it's a smooth experience, with some classic horror moments that blend in seamlessly.

Of modern zombie flicks, and even modern horror in general, I'd have to say this is my favourite right now. Take this with a grain of salt, though, because I've got a decently large zombie fetish. Also, I haven't seen the American remake, Quarantine. From comparing with friends, it sounds like a good, but dumber, version. I'll be sure to review it whenever I do catch it.

Verdict: Win [4/5] (manu!)