Paramount Pictures | Release Date: June 21, 2013
6.8
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Generally favorable reviews based on 1308 Ratings
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Positive:
832
Mixed:
329
Negative:
147
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9
MrFlanksterJun 23, 2013
This was a very entertaining movie. I feel that they could've made the movie about 20 minutes longer and added more to the "discovery and research." I hope the extra content in the DVD/BluRay release has the alternate endings and extra content.
5 of 9 users found this helpful54
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1
Jerik02Jun 23, 2013
This movie is an excellent example of how hollywood ruins everything. The book was a New York Times Best Seller for a reason, but this movie is just awful. Even if one ignored how much the movie deviates from what made the book great, theThis movie is an excellent example of how hollywood ruins everything. The book was a New York Times Best Seller for a reason, but this movie is just awful. Even if one ignored how much the movie deviates from what made the book great, the movie alone is pretty bad. The zombies are a joke terrible computer graphics, and they transform way too quickly. There's a reason this movie isn't doing well and had to have the third act re-written and re-shot. Save yourself from disappointment and read the book instead. It'll be much more exciting, tense, rewarding and ultimately fulfilling. Expand
12 of 17 users found this helpful125
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9
MagyCJun 23, 2013
I'm not a big fan of zombies, but I really liked this movie.
I though the idea was very original, the way they figure out the 'cure' for the disease and even the kinda open ending, was very good. It has a little bit of everything, the love
I'm not a big fan of zombies, but I really liked this movie.
I though the idea was very original, the way they figure out the 'cure' for the disease and even the kinda open ending, was very good. It has a little bit of everything, the love Gery shows for his family, a little bit of mistery and one or two surprise moments that make you jump of your seat. I don't regret seeing it in the movies.
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2 of 7 users found this helpful25
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6
Deathwind17Jun 23, 2013
several points off for not being the book by the same name. But still A good movie on its own.
What other studios bid for the rights to the book should be allowed to make that movie.
The Max Brooks book that restarted the Zombie Craze
several points off for not being the book by the same name. But still A good movie on its own.
What other studios bid for the rights to the book should be allowed to make that movie.
The Max Brooks book that restarted the Zombie Craze should be made.
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3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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7
shpostalJun 23, 2013
I don't quite understand the fascination with zombies. I suppose some form of monster, alien or mutant has always been a mainstay in Hollywood H.G. Wells' book "War of the Worlds" was a huge hit and terrified readers of the day, as didI don't quite understand the fascination with zombies. I suppose some form of monster, alien or mutant has always been a mainstay in Hollywood H.G. Wells' book "War of the Worlds" was a huge hit and terrified readers of the day, as did a radio play of the same book in 1939 by Orson Welles, enough that some listeners thought a Martian attack was actually happening. And let's not forget the slew of sci-fi monster movies that kept drive in theatres busy for decades, including giant mantises, tarantulas and anything else that slithered or crawled.
So the question is, how do you do a movie with undead people and make it plausible instead of the same old ARRUGHGGH? "World War Z" gives it a shot, and it actually works, as the focus is more on the viral disease that is turning people into fast zombie killing machines by the millions, making it more of a medical thriller than a B movie.
Brad Pitt does a fine job as one of the people who might be able to save the planet, and because he makes it believable, it gives the film authenticity and is actually easy to believe. There is plenty of zombie munching and heads getting blown off, but in dim or no light, considering the PG13 rating. The script however is actually done quite well, and as far as this type of film goes, it's far superior to most similarly themed movies, with the comedy "Warm Bodies", that also involves zombies, the only other zombie movie this year you can actually enjoy. It's not the greatest film of Pitts' career, but it's a good summer flick and just scary enough to keep you on edge just a little bit. Not bad.
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3 of 6 users found this helpful33
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6
morfilJun 23, 2013
Simple and typical may be what I may describe this movie. World War Z is good enough not to fall on the classification of lousy or awful. At least it does not drag; the movie is engaging and never ever slows down to cause the slightest bit ofSimple and typical may be what I may describe this movie. World War Z is good enough not to fall on the classification of lousy or awful. At least it does not drag; the movie is engaging and never ever slows down to cause the slightest bit of boredom. At best, it feels like what I imagine would be a perfectly well-made zombie video game adaptation. I'm sure that the movie has some intellectual or subliminal message hidden in and around the movie, or whatever message the writers want to convey. Whatever it may be, we could not really notice that since the pace of the film is fast and hyperactive. But at least it's never chaotic and messy. Expand
3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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9
savagejoe444Jun 23, 2013
We finally get the zombie film we needed! There's plenty of zombie frights in this movie, unlike Resident Evil, and Brad Pitt brings a great performance to this film! Though the ending was rushed, its a great movie from beginning to end!
5 of 10 users found this helpful55
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9
GunslingerX1983Jun 23, 2013
I have not read the book so I cannot comment on any parallels or compare the two in any way, shape or form. So for those of you that think that "the book is way better" or "this movie has not done the book justice" to you all i see "fairI have not read the book so I cannot comment on any parallels or compare the two in any way, shape or form. So for those of you that think that "the book is way better" or "this movie has not done the book justice" to you all i see "fair enough but i don't care"

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and considering how much of a troubled production it has had, it has left me astounded that it has turned out so well.

This movie puts its characters first. Unlike most Zombie movies, this one feels like it has purpose and lets you feel like you are on a journey with Gerry Lane. There is no real blood or gore in the movie at all and this serves the movie very well as it is a story of how will the human race survive this and focuses on the story elements it needs to in order to portray this.

Its been a while since Pitt has been in a movie (that i have seen anyway) and for me he did very well and was a welcome return to the screen for him. Props too for him partly funding this movie himself if i am not mistaken to help it get finished.

Hope this film does well at the box office, it deserves to be seen for bringing something fresh to a tired genre.
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11 of 20 users found this helpful119
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3
KillerTeddyBearJun 23, 2013
This movie was World War Z just in name. I lived the last years dreaming to see the Battle of Yonkers, and it never came up. The CGI was pretty amazing, but apart from that, everything else was just a plain old boring overused theme of zombieThis movie was World War Z just in name. I lived the last years dreaming to see the Battle of Yonkers, and it never came up. The CGI was pretty amazing, but apart from that, everything else was just a plain old boring overused theme of zombie survival/apocalypse. The characters, even the main ones, did not click, did not reel you in with their charisma and atop of all... the zombies, the zombies felt just like an unstoppable giant rolling ball running towards every little sound. No human factor no nothing. It might as well been a giant ocean wave coming for Brad Pitt. Oh scratch that, they had already done giant waves, and it also was a fluke. In conclusion I would like to stress that the movie is a further testimony to Hollywood's destruction of great literature with slashes to the original story, flashy CGI and overpaid actors. Not a single link to the books and it brought nothing new and unprecedented features to the zombie genre. It was plain old boring.
I am giving 3 points because of the effects and sincerely it is the first time i feel like wanting my cash back.
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9 of 16 users found this helpful97
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9
mdeangmuJun 23, 2013
This was a great summer blockbuster with a thrilling plot that kept you engaged. It was an impressive amount of science fiction and story for an action/zombie movie. Far superior to any other Zombie movie in history...and yes...even betterThis was a great summer blockbuster with a thrilling plot that kept you engaged. It was an impressive amount of science fiction and story for an action/zombie movie. Far superior to any other Zombie movie in history...and yes...even better than Night of the Living Dead.

The negative reviews must be from those that abhor action, zombie, and/or science fiction movies. No clue why you would watch this if you weren't into at least one of those categories (and I am not a big fan of action movies...tired of the car jumping the hill in downtown San Francisco...know what I mean).
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4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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8
JesseSchecknerJun 23, 2013
With a world-sweeping plot reminiscent of Steven Soderberg’s Contagion, an intense, kinetic pace tastefully interspersed with snappy dialogue, and a leading man, in Brad Pitt, up to the task of anchoring it all in the realm of suspendedWith a world-sweeping plot reminiscent of Steven Soderberg’s Contagion, an intense, kinetic pace tastefully interspersed with snappy dialogue, and a leading man, in Brad Pitt, up to the task of anchoring it all in the realm of suspended disbelief, World War Z may very well be the best modern zombie film yet to grace cinemas.

To say it was an arduous task to deliver the movie might be this year’s movie-related understatement, and there have been and there still remain many doubts as to whether or not it would all be worthwhile.

Based on the novel, World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War, penned by Max Brooks, the son of comedy filmmaking legend Mel Brooks and actress Ann Bancroft, the movie’s script went through several difficult and drastic alterations before filming wrapped in October of last year. Initially adapted in 2008 by sci-fi and comic book scribe J. Michael Straczynski, the screenplay went through a complete overhaul by Matthew Michael Carnahan, whose debut film, The Kingdom, delivered the kind of politically-infused action Paramount Studios and Pitt’s production company, Plan B, were looking for.

For the rest of the review, please visit:
http://tuffgnarl.com/world-war-z-review/
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6 of 12 users found this helpful66
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8
shyts_7Jun 23, 2013
Good summer movie. They should of made it R rated. CGI could of been better. Script needed more work. But with all that said, it will entertain you. The ending wasn't as bad as some made it out to be, just to abrupt.
6 of 12 users found this helpful66
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7
dharmaJun 23, 2013
World War Z is a film that has so much potential but 'decided' to become simply a film targeted at the teenage 'Resident Evil' crowd. Absolutely great set pieces are framed by a narrative that is too simple, disregarding the heavy moralityWorld War Z is a film that has so much potential but 'decided' to become simply a film targeted at the teenage 'Resident Evil' crowd. Absolutely great set pieces are framed by a narrative that is too simple, disregarding the heavy morality prevalent in brilliant series 'The Walking Dead' in favor of large scale action. Sure these set pieces are pulse pounding and brilliant, Pitt still the always great leading man and all, but hey... where are all the nuances that made the original novel a masterpiece? Nevertheless, a very watchable film but just leave 'your brain' at the front door of the theater ;p Expand
7 of 14 users found this helpful77
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7
PeriwinkleJun 23, 2013
When looked at as a movie based off of the source material, fans of the book may be thoroughly disappointed by how thoroughly it disassociates itself from it. However, having said that, director Marc Forster is able to bring chilling suspenseWhen looked at as a movie based off of the source material, fans of the book may be thoroughly disappointed by how thoroughly it disassociates itself from it. However, having said that, director Marc Forster is able to bring chilling suspense and swift thrills, coupled with gripping set pieces located in large cities, and tie it all together with impressive CGI and hard hitting action. Brad Pitt gives a terrific performance in the title role playing "Gerry Lane," a former UN operative tasked with locating the source of the infectious zombie outbreak. All in all, Forster's solid direction alongside Pitt's usual stellar acting is another decent blockbuster addition the to the zombie entertainment genre. Expand
5 of 8 users found this helpful53
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8
C3realkillahJun 22, 2013
this was one of the best zombie movie ive ever seen. its like dawn of the dead and left 4 dead mixed together. the story and characters were good though the ending could have been better and less... happy. the zombies in the movie were fastthis was one of the best zombie movie ive ever seen. its like dawn of the dead and left 4 dead mixed together. the story and characters were good though the ending could have been better and less... happy. the zombies in the movie were fast and unpredictable (Zombie ladder wtf XD) overall great film glad i saw it. Expand
5 of 10 users found this helpful55
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7
Scaryscores15Jun 22, 2013
The good well it actually had a good introduction to a beginning on how the zombies came, zombies actually feel like zombies and had the best way of setting out a good plot twist like first you are in Philadelphia then ends up to be on a shipThe good well it actually had a good introduction to a beginning on how the zombies came, zombies actually feel like zombies and had the best way of setting out a good plot twist like first you are in Philadelphia then ends up to be on a ship and you go to Jerusalem, and it seems as if Brad Pitt did a good job in this movie.

The Bad well the bad ending got me confused like your not suppose to do this, the middle of the movie felt like it was really drawn out and as if they were to lazy to come up with a way to do the middle and less action came on and the movie just felt boring in the middle I hope the director makes a World War Z part 2 this movie just has a couple of flaws just from being a solid 10 because if it you must be a fan of zombie thrilling action then you must watch it.
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1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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0
capthavicJun 22, 2013
TERRIBLE! Just terrible! This movie is an insult to fans of the book and author Max Brooks alike. Aside from the title and that it's a zombie movie there is nothing left of the original book/script in common. Brad Pitt and his studio canTERRIBLE! Just terrible! This movie is an insult to fans of the book and author Max Brooks alike. Aside from the title and that it's a zombie movie there is nothing left of the original book/script in common. Brad Pitt and his studio can seriously go themselves. The story would be laughable if I wasn't already so pissed off at this abomination. Even if you've never read the books I doubt you'll find anything to enjoy even as just a dumb popcorn flick. Honestly I'm pissed off as a fan of the book and cannot imagine how the author must feel to have his work just raped by Hollywood Avoid at all costs! Expand
8 of 13 users found this helpful85
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10
AegrusJun 22, 2013
The characters are actually really intelligent. In most horror movies, I catch myself thinking "Don't do that, don't do that you idiot!" over and over again. There was none of that here; lots of people die, but the people who live don'tThe characters are actually really intelligent. In most horror movies, I catch myself thinking "Don't do that, don't do that you idiot!" over and over again. There was none of that here; lots of people die, but the people who live don't live because of plot armor or random chance. They survive because they're determined and intelligent, and that's rare in most movies. Even the minor characters are capable of taking hints and taking measures to defend themselves and each other. Even crowds of people are not just mindless lemmings.

Also, there are several strong female and minority characters. The protagonist's wife gets a bit too weepy, but that isn't enough to bring down a suspenseful and intelligent movie.

I really liked how no one wasted time trying to figure out what zombies were. The characters don't break down in disbelief or have long, drawn out arguments about the nature of their enemy. We know what zombies are, the characters know what zombies are--they're perceptive. There's no tacky "IT CAN'T BE!" sequence in which most of the characters deny the threat, a moment most zombie movies fall victim to.

The special effects are also really good. It's just a shame most of the subtleties flew over peoples' heads.
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6 of 14 users found this helpful68
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7
SilentINUJun 22, 2013
I've watched some zombie movies and this one is good. I like the way they did the zombies attacks, reactions and effects. 2 things lack in this movie, more zombie action, there wasn't enough killing for a zombie movie and a better plot. TheI've watched some zombie movies and this one is good. I like the way they did the zombies attacks, reactions and effects. 2 things lack in this movie, more zombie action, there wasn't enough killing for a zombie movie and a better plot. The movie just starts too fast and the way the main character travels in search of a cure, i just disliked and the way the cure was found just didn't really seemed much credible. But it was good, not great but anyway, there where some incredible scenes like the way the zombies rushed to the people and the way they made stairs out of themselves and the big number of zombies collapsing in this movie.
Overall there was some scares and very thrilling moments and this movie makes me remember how much i like zombie apocalypse movies/ games/ series.
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4 of 8 users found this helpful44
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5
wattamanJun 22, 2013
So there you have them: Will Smith, trying to save humanity and find a cure to revert the process and make all zombies human again, and Brad Pitt, choosing to burn them alive or dead, since they're zombies and contribute to our extinction.So there you have them: Will Smith, trying to save humanity and find a cure to revert the process and make all zombies human again, and Brad Pitt, choosing to burn them alive or dead, since they're zombies and contribute to our extinction.
Brad, that's not cool, man, just not cool.
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3 of 9 users found this helpful36
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10
poptart222Jun 22, 2013
So it wasn't like the book? Get over it. It happens pretty often. I thought it was still a very entertaining movie and am looking forward to the sequel.
7 of 15 users found this helpful78
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2
tylerdurden1Jun 22, 2013
My problem with this movie might have been my expectations because I love a good zombie movie but to be honest I still think this movie would fall flat again even with a 2nd viewing (which will wait until dvd release). I give a lot of leeayMy problem with this movie might have been my expectations because I love a good zombie movie but to be honest I still think this movie would fall flat again even with a 2nd viewing (which will wait until dvd release). I give a lot of leeay because it's a zombie flick but the staples of a good zombie flick where forgotten in this movie. Couple that with amazing plot holes and that =1 bummed out zombie fan. Expand
3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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10
lisatntJun 22, 2013
Wonderful Cinematography! Love this movie so much more than 28 Days Later and I love that movie! Great depth and subtext, I will absolutely buy the 3D version when it's available. If you like pandemic or zombie flicks at all GO SEE THIS MOVIE!
7 of 15 users found this helpful78
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7
Weis-muellerJun 22, 2013
Relentless pacing. High production values. A desperate situation. It works well. And it gives you more beyond that: a special idea, well stated by a character with an inappropo amused gleam in his eye--that reframes the movie in 30 seconds.Relentless pacing. High production values. A desperate situation. It works well. And it gives you more beyond that: a special idea, well stated by a character with an inappropo amused gleam in his eye--that reframes the movie in 30 seconds. And still more: irony. Very solid entertainment. I ran to the theatre men's room and back. Expand
5 of 9 users found this helpful54
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5
dklincolJun 22, 2013
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I never read the book but I was very disappointed by this film. The plot is just terrible. It lacks depth almost entirely. Go to South Korea, flight a few zombies and leave. Go to Israel, get overrun by zombies and leave. Survive a plane crash in England and happen upon a WHO facility and magically solve the mystery. Just ridiculous. You know a zombie movie is bad when people start laughing at the zombies in the theater. Comedy and the world ending don't mix too well. Felt like they could have done so much better but this just fell flat on its face... Expand
1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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3
ArtKJun 22, 2013
I'm not sure what I was thinking. Zombie movies are not typically my type of film, but Brad Pitt has chosen (largely) good movies over the past few years, so I thought I'd give it a go. I enjoyed the set-up, but as the film progressed, II'm not sure what I was thinking. Zombie movies are not typically my type of film, but Brad Pitt has chosen (largely) good movies over the past few years, so I thought I'd give it a go. I enjoyed the set-up, but as the film progressed, I just got more and more bored. World War Z was World War Zzzzzz. Expand
10 of 17 users found this helpful107
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7
TowernJun 22, 2013
My true score is 6,7. This isn't a bad movie... it isn't great either...
It offers good moments such as the abundance of infected people trying to reach a city, specially in the big screen and in 3D, but lacks creativity... This is the
My true score is 6,7. This isn't a bad movie... it isn't great either...
It offers good moments such as the abundance of infected people trying to reach a city, specially in the big screen and in 3D, but lacks creativity... This is the typical movie that you watch the poster, see Brad Pit's name in it and you know he is going to save the humanity somehow.
It isn't a boring movie, but it's to predictable, and unrealistic: [BEGIN SPOILERS]
First they get straight to the point, a little rushed in my opinion.
Then, the great finale... In a room full of controlled diseases, the "Hero" has to guess what will he inject himself with so he'll be able to camouflage himself from the infected people and.... Yes! What a surprise, you guessed it right!!! the right disease, the right quantity, and ONE person saves the world.
It's a clear cly che, but you know... It's not mind blow movie but it's an okay one.
If the movie you wanted to see in the theaters is full or unavailable, this is a fine choice.
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3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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10
Palehorse52Jun 21, 2013
It was a real solid movie that was structured well and took you along for the ride. I will say that it does stray in many key ways from the book but it does work. Pitt's role did not exist in the book and to tell the story through so manyIt was a real solid movie that was structured well and took you along for the ride. I will say that it does stray in many key ways from the book but it does work. Pitt's role did not exist in the book and to tell the story through so many different charters, as Brooks did in the book, would be more suited for a tv series. A must see! Expand
7 of 15 users found this helpful78
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3
TheSurvivorJun 21, 2013
What a bland un characterised piece of that was.No thought or detail was put into the making of this film and instead it was a distorted mess of ideas glued together just because they looked cool.Seemingly the scenes have no connections butWhat a bland un characterised piece of that was.No thought or detail was put into the making of this film and instead it was a distorted mess of ideas glued together just because they looked cool.Seemingly the scenes have no connections but the dull and boring characters reveal more plot points than bullets fired in the movie.While it does look impressive and is well acted that does not change the fact that this movie has no character or any emotional connection going for it.Nothing is detailed and the whole thing is rushed,save yourself 10 dollars and don't see it Expand
3 of 10 users found this helpful37
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3
RettaJun 21, 2013
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Brad Pitt muddles through this messy nonsense with a supporting family you just want to strangle. A clinging wife sniffling and sickly children do more to distract their father placing them all in more danger than the zombies. The young scientist who was the world's best hope to find a solution to the zombie problem is unfortunately put In a situation that required a different skill set.

A wall protecting a whole country letting everyone in failed to plan to keep the zombies out! Planes land with their off ramp left open. Come on in zombies Oh what about using the ventilation system in the WHO lab to zap the zombies with a sleeping agent or to navigate through the building without running into the zombies.

Ok it's a good trick to drop the audience into the middle of the story. We don't have a clue what created the zombies or how they will be cured. But we do know that Lane is the hero and a good man who loves his family.

But Lane gave Lane enough insight the find a solution to survival.
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7 of 15 users found this helpful78
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2
justthefactsJun 21, 2013
Brad Pitt can bring up ratings and I enjoy watching him in the movies but he was not enough for this movie. I do not think this was a good movie. I think the movie was done good. I just think a zombie movie is not the best choice to spendBrad Pitt can bring up ratings and I enjoy watching him in the movies but he was not enough for this movie. I do not think this was a good movie. I think the movie was done good. I just think a zombie movie is not the best choice to spend $200,000 million on.
This movie is not a movie I would watch again so that tells you everything...
Do you want the truth or a lie???
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4 of 11 users found this helpful47
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3
Darthghost1Jun 21, 2013
If you loved the book, this will not be a good movie. If you didn't, maybe you can see some redeeming factor in it, because as a fan of the book, i did not.
4 of 12 users found this helpful48
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7
ThegodfathersonJun 21, 2013
I wanted to see how powerful Marc Forster's World War Z was, what I got was 2 hours of good, bone crunching, zombie horror fun. Sometimes a movie surprises you. Something you thought was going to be a mid-summer slog or an underwhelming riffI wanted to see how powerful Marc Forster's World War Z was, what I got was 2 hours of good, bone crunching, zombie horror fun. Sometimes a movie surprises you. Something you thought was going to be a mid-summer slog or an underwhelming riff on familiar themes turns out to be something more. Familiar tropes are reinvented, a tired villain gets new life, and presumed lines of safety are crossed. You find yourself in the middle of a relentless rush of anxiety, fear, and exhilaration, and when you walk out of the theater you can’t wait to tell someone what you just witnessed. World War Z is that kind of movie. The adaptation of Max Brooks’ best-seller has been best known up until this point for its production problems. Last year Paramount delayed the film’s original 2012 release date to allow for extensive reshoots. Much of the blame was laid at the feet of director Marc Forster (Quantum of Solace, Monster's Ball) and a script that hadn’t been ready to shoot. Writers like Damon Lindelof and Cloverfield’s Drew Goddard were brought in to completely rework the film’s third act in an effort to salvage the big-budget tentpole from disaster. The finished film starts off by mercilessly throwing the audience into the deep end of the zombie apocalypse. There’s a brief scene where Brad Pitt’s Gerry Lane makes breakfast for his wife Karin (Mireille Enos from The Killing) and their two daughters. Then the family find themselves stuck in city traffic and all hell breaks loose. Explosions strike, fast-moving zombies swarm, and everybody starts running for their lives. A former investigator for the United Nations, Gerry is able to get his family to safety on an aircraft carrier with the help of his colleague Thierry (Fana Mokoena). Whatever struck the world struck fast, Gerry learns the president of the United States is already dead and with the entire globe infected the only hope is to find Patient Zero. "Mother Nature is a serial killer," a UN doctor tells Gerry, but she does leave clues behind. To ensure his family stays safely aboard the ship, Gerry agrees to lead the investigation into the origins of the plague. It’s such a quick progression of events it makes your head spin. In fact, it’s almost too fast; at a certain point, it feels like somebody left out the requisite moment when everybody looks around and wonders just what these crazy zombie creatures actually are. But by then the movie is already off to its next action set piece. And what set pieces they are. World War Z is a string of unrelenting, harrowing sequences that continually manage to top one another spanning multiple countries, the ground, and air. When attacking en masse the zombies are an overwhelming tidal wave; one-on-one they’re a vicious mix of tics and snarls. Imagine the undead from 28 Days Later, make them twice as fast, and combine them with the swarming fury of fire ants and you’ll get an idea of World War Z’s creatures. They make the zombies from The Walking Dead look positively cuddly in comparison: lightning-fast biters straight from the subconscious that simply do not stop. The movie shouldn’t be confused for a Romero-style zombie flick, however. World War Z is a disaster film in the classic 1970s sense think The Towering Inferno or The Poseidon Adventure serving as light allegory for our indifference towards nature while also bringing a lot of smarts to the table. Early on, Gerry gets zombie blood in his mouth and runs to the edge of a building, realizing he may have to throw himself off should he transform. He clocks the 12 seconds it takes for people to turn upon witnessing his first transformation, putting the pieces of the puzzle together quicker than what we’re used to seeing. Pitt carries the entire movie, as both its star and emotional core. Gerry’s mission is simple and basic he wants to keep his family safe and when he says goodbye to his daughters you believe it. Forster thankfully takes the time to focus on these small character moments, which could otherwise get lost in the face of the film’s larger sequences. Gerry’s wife Enos isn’t given much to do other than furrow her brow and stare at a satellite phone, but together the pair provide just enough of an emotional hook for the story to work. The film’s ending also feels like it’s missing one final note. It certainly works, but given the emphasis on family and Gerry’s emotional drive it’s hard to escape the feeling that it could have gone just a touch further. It’s as if Forster and his creative team were able to get the ball to the 1-yard line, but couldn’t quite punch it into the endzone. Of course, with so many summer movies fumbling at the 40 it’s a mild complaint. There’s tremendous joy in watching a movie like World War Z that just works. Too many films this year have seemed more concerned with showing the audience how clever they are either though misdirection, callbacks, or faux gravitas instead of just telling good stories. Expand
5 of 11 users found this helpful56
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0
dieoptixJun 21, 2013
I was extremely disappointed. I read the book and this film had barely a passing resemblance to the plot. I couldn't help but mutter how stupid the last third of the movie was. Frankly the book lent itself to being the basis of a TV show, andI was extremely disappointed. I read the book and this film had barely a passing resemblance to the plot. I couldn't help but mutter how stupid the last third of the movie was. Frankly the book lent itself to being the basis of a TV show, and not a movie adaptation. Expand
8 of 18 users found this helpful810
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6
allystewJun 21, 2013
Zombies attack on a huge scale but I'm afraid there are no huge scares. 5 minutes into the movie and the fastest zombies ever are bashing there way across a city but immediately the lack of gore and blood is very noticeable. The 12A/PG13Zombies attack on a huge scale but I'm afraid there are no huge scares. 5 minutes into the movie and the fastest zombies ever are bashing there way across a city but immediately the lack of gore and blood is very noticeable. The 12A/PG13 rating really hurts as there is no pay off to seeing zombies killed as you don't get to see it! However the big set piece with zombies climbing a 100 foot wall in the middle of the movie is stunning and well done. I just hope the Bluray/DVD is uncut and we get to see some zombie heads get squashed properly. Expand
10 of 17 users found this helpful107
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3
WhySoSerious54Jun 21, 2013
Some decent suspense scenes but a real lazy script. Tons of holes throughout the film with characters so bland you wonder if Brad Pitt could have just been talking to cardboard cutouts the entire film. The main reasoning behind the cure isSome decent suspense scenes but a real lazy script. Tons of holes throughout the film with characters so bland you wonder if Brad Pitt could have just been talking to cardboard cutouts the entire film. The main reasoning behind the cure is stupid it made just about half the theature laugh. Oh and the zombies teeth chomping got so stupid after seeing it over and over again. Expand
12 of 22 users found this helpful1210
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4
DodgerJun 21, 2013
So far removed from the original story by Max Brooks that it shouldn't even share the same name, so far from it in fact that i had to try and dissociate it from the book and appreciate it as the movie itself. Standing on its own this movie isSo far removed from the original story by Max Brooks that it shouldn't even share the same name, so far from it in fact that i had to try and dissociate it from the book and appreciate it as the movie itself. Standing on its own this movie is a mediocre zombie film with some reasonable acting and effects, but with virtually no story and many stupid and massive plot holes. How could they of possibly spent £130 million on this movie? its ridiculous.

Overall im very disappointed by this film, being looking forwards to it for ages as im a big fan of the book. I would definitely suggest staying away from this film if you are fan of max brooks or just a zombie movie fan in general.
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15 of 27 users found this helpful1512
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10
jasonz001Jun 21, 2013
Wow it's powerful. Literally keeps you at the edge of your seat and throws twists and turns relentlessly. It's smart, scary and a joy to watch.

The story acts more as a preview of the book rather than a full adaptation. But, I was
Wow it's powerful. Literally keeps you at the edge of your seat and throws twists and turns relentlessly. It's smart, scary and a joy to watch.

The story acts more as a preview of the book rather than a full adaptation. But, I was delightfully surprised that the movie was able to include so many perspectives of the outbreak in various countries.
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7 of 18 users found this helpful711
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3
stanleynbloomJun 21, 2013
World War Z is missing some zzzzzzzzzzz's it its title. Bland plot, Bland characters, Bland performances, even bland zombies. There is no back story on how the disease spread, no back story on our main protagonist, it's just scenes smashedWorld War Z is missing some zzzzzzzzzzz's it its title. Bland plot, Bland characters, Bland performances, even bland zombies. There is no back story on how the disease spread, no back story on our main protagonist, it's just scenes smashed together to resemble something of a action flick. All the characters say and do stupid things..and the scenes come and go as quickly as you realize this movie was a waste of money. No emotional attachment to anything I saw on screen. 3/10. Wasn't one of the worst movies of the summer, but just ZERO to offer. World War ZERO. World War ZZZZZZ you name it. Be very cautious of the people giving it scores like 9's and 10's. This ain't no "Thrill Ride" "Best zombie movie I've ever seen". Go get the AMC series Walking Dead and you will find more character depth, action, and suspense in one 40 minute episode. Expand
14 of 26 users found this helpful1412
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4
ArseassinJun 21, 2013
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie is driven by a poorly defined, convoluted plot, mixed in with some semi cool action scenes and scenery. The zombies are cool for a while but become laughably goofy upon closer examination near the end of the film. I never read the books however I consider myself a zombie movie fanatic and this movie simply cannot be related with given the absolutely rediculous amount of luck brad pitt survives on(plane crash and aimless trek afterwards.... wtf.) Most of the characters that seem important are in the movie for 5 minutes tops, and the ones that are in no way important are there most of the movie. All said, don't go to this movie expecting a scary tale of a family surviving a zombie apocalypse, expect a weird, often humorous tale of a seemingly invincible man running around a zombie filled earth with no real defined goal. Expect a shallow plot and even shallower back stories, giving you no reason to care for any of the people in the story except for one handless girl who has no reason to even be in the film. Wait until it hits dollar theaters and prepare to laugh. Expand
14 of 26 users found this helpful1412
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5
James99Jun 21, 2013
I really wanted this to be awesome, I mean, who doesn't right? Brad Pitt at the helm of a big budget zombie flick amidst the increasing popularity of the post-apocalyptic phenomenon, what’s not to like? Truth is, the audience just like theI really wanted this to be awesome, I mean, who doesn't right? Brad Pitt at the helm of a big budget zombie flick amidst the increasing popularity of the post-apocalyptic phenomenon, what’s not to like? Truth is, the audience just like the countries of the world should have seen the inevitable. Unfortunately the film’s real virus was the poor script that it can’t shake, despite its blockbuster CGI immune system. It saving grace, comes when you pair it against what where used to, gory, suspense but reasonably ‘low scale’, i.e. we never really get to see the initial panic. Movies like 28 days later transport us to the barren remains of the earth. World War Z doesn't stop at the before and after shots, we get everything in-between. That’s what I liked, and what saved it at times when it lagged behind expectation. This movie had the same feel as ‘The Day After Tomorrow’; essentially the audience gets sold a ‘one size fits all’ zombie movie, hoping for a ‘Goldilocks’ like effect. To its detriment, it lacked the pizazz it was well and truly capable of. Expand
1 of 8 users found this helpful17
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3
TheKingJackJun 21, 2013
It's absolutely awful. It takes nothing from the incredible source material authored by Max Brooks, discarding it as if it's irreverent. I've been waiting for this film for the last seven years, but i've got to say, I am incrediblyIt's absolutely awful. It takes nothing from the incredible source material authored by Max Brooks, discarding it as if it's irreverent. I've been waiting for this film for the last seven years, but i've got to say, I am incredibly disappointed. That said, Brad Pitt puts in a decent performance as the main protagonist ('Gerry Lane, a UN worker), and some of the scenes work well. Where was Yonkers? Expand
15 of 28 users found this helpful1513
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7
ivan_terribleJun 21, 2013
Good thrilling movie, but somehow it felt like the story's being compressed from 3 hours to just under 2 hours. It's definitely much better than resident evil as it ends in good bitter way. Brad Pitt as the main character in the world war zGood thrilling movie, but somehow it felt like the story's being compressed from 3 hours to just under 2 hours. It's definitely much better than resident evil as it ends in good bitter way. Brad Pitt as the main character in the world war z has done a great job and made this movie a very entertaining one. Expand
5 of 10 users found this helpful55
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10
RobyLula555Jun 21, 2013
Really fun and awsome. I like the massive zombie scenes and i like Brad Pitt as an actor. World War Z is for me one of the best zombie movies i ever seen. GO WATCH IT!
11 of 23 users found this helpful1112
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9
GripJun 21, 2013
An edge of your seat, never let's go, smart and powerful thrill ride. The film makers achieved a great blend of a global perspective with out loosing the personal story. I haven't enjoyed a film this much in years.
7 of 15 users found this helpful78
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7
Compi24Jun 21, 2013
Major kudos goes to Brad Pitt, as he navigates the audience through the bumpy, but still enjoyably thrilling ride that is "World War Z." Although, it's certainly funny when it shouldn't be, and askew as hell, it still marks a worthy notchMajor kudos goes to Brad Pitt, as he navigates the audience through the bumpy, but still enjoyably thrilling ride that is "World War Z." Although, it's certainly funny when it shouldn't be, and askew as hell, it still marks a worthy notch into the belt of the zombie genre. Expand
5 of 13 users found this helpful58
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