“ZombieCON Vol. 1,” directed by Kyle Valle and released on VOD this week by Level 33 Entertainment, introduces us to “Rocket’s Rockets”—a group of cosplaying best friends, played by Manny Luke, Erin Áine, Christian Casillas, and Punkie Johnson. Their accidental unleashing of a zombie outbreak, uniquely infecting only “the worst in humanity,” promised a fresh take on the genre. The question remains: did it deliver?
Co-written and produced by Valle, Luke, and Áine, “ZombieCON Vol. 1” feels like a labor of love where a group of friends came together to make something they were passionate about. This dedication is evident in the end credits, where the trio’s extensive involvement across nearly every production role highlights their commitment. It also resonates deeply within the film’s narrative, which captures the essence of being an outcast and the profound sense of family forged within communities that celebrate individuality. This is also evident in the performances, as we freaks, geeks, and weirdos can relate to some of the situations the group finds itself in, particularly when it encounters a group of bullies who mock them for their costumes and then destroy their prized cosplay trophy.
This pivotal event serves as the catalyst for the zombie apocalypse, though “ZombieCON Vol. 1” veers sharply from traditional zombie lore. From their mysterious genesis to their unconventional, almost over-complicated demise, the filmmakers deliberately subvert genre norms. While the sheer zaniness of the zombie origin is initially appealing, the lack of explanation ultimately reduces it to a mere gimmick, leaving the viewer yearning for more insight into the “why.”
Once the undead are unleashed, the film adopts a premise reminiscent of “Shaun of the Dead,” as the friends embark on a perilous journey through the city to ensure Rocket’s mother’s safety. Unfortunately, as things get more chaotic, so does the camera work, and this was something I just wasn’t a fan of as things intensified. The increasingly shaky, close-up cinematography, while attempting to immerse the viewer in the action, often creates a claustrophobic experience, obscuring wider shots and, at times, sacrificing clarity of the overall scene.
Leading up to its final act, “ZombieCON Vol. 1” largely remains an “okay” watch. There are moments of exposition and dialogue that could have been trimmed to tighten the pacing. However, the film truly finds its footing in the climactic showdown. The performances and storyline coalesce, drawing the audience back in for a compelling final twenty minutes.
So, is “ZombieCON Vol. 1” worth your time? While it may not align with everyone’s taste, those who appreciate the themes of found family among outcasts and approach it as a low-budget passion project might genuinely enjoy it. Go in with higher expectations, however, and you may find yourself disappointed.
