Every since George A. Romero came onto the scene in the early 1970s, zombie films have recreated and redefined the way that horror films are made. Effectively mixing screams and laughs, Romero was able to cleverly provide a story that would confuse emotions and ultimately make you enjoy yourself all the way through. Because of this, zombie films have been a constant in a world of ever-changing genres. And now, among a mountain of hype, audiences are excited to see Quarantine, a recreation of Spain's popular zombie film, Rec.
In the film, television reporter Angela Vidal and her cameraman are assigned to cover the night shift with a Los Angeles Fire Station unit. After a routine 911 call takes them to a small apartment building where deadly screams have been heard from one of the units, both realize that their night on duty might be their last. Upon arrival, they discover that police have already been called to the scene, and with camera in tow, Angela looks to get to the bottom of the story. However, within a matter of minutes, they all learn that a woman has been infected by an unknown agent, prompting everyone to rush out of the building. But while tending to the woman, CDC and the FBI have quarantined the area, locking all doors and barricading all exits. Phones, internet and cable have been cut-off, cutting off those inside from information and rescue. And now that the quarantine has been lifted, the only evidence that remains is the news crew's eye-witness account.
Played by horror favorite Jennifer Carpenter, Angela Vidal is more than just your usual protagonist turned zombie bate. Instead, she proves to be a pleasant site for all those watching. From her innocent flirtation with the fire fighters to her wannabe a serious reporter screen shots, Carpenter absorbs her character and sells her on all her passions and flaws. Her annoying laugh and excessive breathing are sure to frustrate many; however, it is crucial in her character development as she radiates her personality throughout the film's entirety.
Additionally, I have to give credit to the supporting stars of the film, most notably Steve Harris, who plays the rarely seen cameraman. Most known for his work on ABC's 'The Practice,' Harris accepts his position in the film, never providing too much dialogue and never distracting the viewers from the story. And when he is shown on the screen, he uses the most of his time, giving a susceptible performance and helping to demonstrate the bond that has formed between him and his reporter.
Not to be forgotten, both Jay Hernandez and Columbus Short give acceptable performances as a fire-fighter and police officer who are forced to put aside their differences and help get the apartment tenants under control. Their ability to work with one another, as well as the rest of the cast, showcases their talent, proving that both are probably a little too good for the film, but a good fit none-the-less.
But more than the acting and the characters, Quarantine excels on its premise and direction as it provides a new look into the world of zombies, giving them a medically enhanced way of being formed rather than an 'unknown' virus. And while the final truth is never fully revealed, information is divulged and clues shown, allowing you to form your own opinion on the virus, the procedure and why it all started in this tiny apartment building.
Moreover, director John E. Dowdle successfully displays a rarely used tactic as many of the scenes are shot continuously, allowing for improvisation to occur with the actors. Not only that, but with this scene structure, the film was able to showcase some amazing stunts as you get to see people falling down the stairs, wild attacks, an unexpected sniper shot and even that is quite possibly the best 'zombie' kill ever, all in fluid motion. There are only a few actual cuts, and when there are, you can't help but notice the length and difficulty of each scene. Combine that with the clever lighting and constant fear of the unknowing, and Quarantine effectively lives up to its billing, quickly becoming another, surprisingly strong film in the crazy world of zombies!
