MOVIE REVIEW - The Crazies

Here comes The Crazies! A remake of a a 1973 cult classic, and given a modern day spin for a new generation of scary movie buffs.

The Crazies is one of those movies that doesn't boast huge stars, and it doesn't need them. It's also a scary movie that for the most part doesn't rely on huge special effects to make it's point. The Crazies is actually pretty straight forward and honest. It doesn't try to flower up this story just because it could. I have to say by and large, The Crazies for what it is, is pretty good!

It's the story of a fictional Iowa small town that has about 1,200 people. For some reason some of them start acting "crazy." What that actually means in this movie, is that some are just walking around zombie-like and intent on killing others. It starts off mild enough, but quickly turns into a town- wide epidemic. Leaving the local town sheriff, his wife, and small staff left to figure this whole thing out and stay alive long enough to get out of town and to safety.

Why are these people going crazy? Why is the American military suddenly involved? These are the crazy questions, in The Crazies!

For what it is, there is something about this movie that works. I have to give it props on the fact that it's a movie and not a cartoon, relying on animated special effects to make it's point. There is plenty of old fashioned violence here, but this is a movie about nutty people stricken with some problem that are bent on killing people. There are some scenes that will tough for some to watch. But this is a movie meant for a young, thrill happy audience and they will be amazed how compelling a movie can be that is simply a movie and not a video game.

But let's not get carried away here. The Crazies is not going to be standing on the brink of Oscar greatness. It will be relatively forgettable over time. But if you're looking for a quick thrill on a cold and snowy weekend night with a bunch of friends, The Crazies may be your movie. And the later your showtime, the scarier it will be.

Movies like The Crazies have to be reviewed on what they are. This movie is supposed to give you a jolt and a thrill, and be entertaining for thrill-seeking young movie goers that want a good rush. And trying to do so without being completely ridiculous, predictable or stupid.

Call me crazy......but The Crazies....is that movie.