Big names called in for Aussie zombie film Little Monsters
Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o throws herself into the role of sweet kindergarten teacher in this homegrown zombie adventure. But can it find its gruesome groove?
Leigh Paatsch
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This Australian-made zombie flick has had a tough time of it securing a decent release round these parts, even though it pulled off two impressive casting coups to bolster its appeal to international markets.
Indeed, Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o (12 Years a Slave) is clearly the best thing about Little Monsters, throwing herself into both her role and the bloody mayhem oozing around her with a conviction that dazzles as it frazzles.
The other overseas name of note is Josh Gad (the voice of Olaf in Frozen), and he too goes over-the-top for the sake of the movie (though with mixed results depending on your mood at the time of viewing).
The premise of Little Monsters does have a moderate share of macabre potential, most of which is fully realised and spent by the end.
Nyong’o plays Miss Caroline, a sweet-natured kindergarten teacher whose plans for a happy field trip to a local petting zoo are soured by a zombie outbreak.
A nearby testing facility of ill repute is to blame, but what matters more to Miss Caroline is the safety of her adorable young charges, who need to be kept oblivious to the deathly threat staggering their way.
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Once the splatter factor really kicks in, the movie hits a gruesome groove which will be best appreciated by those who thought the recent Zombieland didn’t quite go hard enough with the goofy gore when required.
Little Monsters screens this week only at selected cinemas around Melbourne.
Little Monsters (MA15+)
Director: Abe Forsythe (Down Under)
Starring: Lupita Nyong’o, Alexander England, Josh Gad, Diesel La Torraca.
Rating: **1/2
Keeping the zombies away so the kids can play