Written by Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg, Shaun of the Dead has cemented its place as a cult classic since its release in 2004. But as the film celebrates its 20th anniversary, the question arises: does it still hold up in today’s world?
The film, a clever blend of horror and comedy, follows Shaun (Simon Pegg), a lovable underachiever, as he navigates a zombie apocalypse while trying to win back his ex-girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) and mend his strained relationship with his stepfather (Bill Nighy). Alongside his bumbling best friend Ed (Nick Frost), Shaun embarks on a hilariously chaotic mission to protect his loved ones and survive the undead horde.
Rewatching the film in 2025, one of the most striking aspects is how it captures a pre-smartphone era. The sight of chunky Nokia phones instead of today’s sleek devices feels like a nostalgic trip to a simpler time. Yet, the film’s setting is not so distant that it feels alien—it’s a world that’s recognizably ours, albeit with a retro charm. This delicate balance between dated and timeless places Shaun of the Dead in a unique space, evoking a sense of nostalgia without feeling entirely out of touch.
What truly sets the film apart, however, is its enduring humor. Comedy is a genre that often struggles to age gracefully, as societal norms and tastes evolve. Yet, Shaun of the Dead manages to remain fresh and largely inoffensive, a testament to its sharp writing and universal appeal. Unlike some comedies from the same era—such as Superbad, which might feel jarring to modern audiences due to its use of outdated language—Shaun of the Dead relies on witty dialogue and physical comedy that still resonate today. One iconic scene, where Shaun absentmindedly walks into a fence, is as hilarious now as it was two decades ago.
That said, revisiting the film in a post-pandemic world adds an unexpected layer of unease. The early scenes depicting the onset of the zombie outbreak felt eerily familiar, evoking memories of the COVID-19 lockdowns. While the filmmakers couldn’t have foreseen the parallels, the film’s portrayal of societal collapse and isolation hits closer to home now than it did in 2004. It’s a reminder of how art can unintentionally mirror real-life events, even if the connection is purely coincidental. Still, as time distances us from the pandemic, these moments may lose their sting, allowing the film’s humor to shine through once more.
Visually, Shaun of the Dead remains a triumph. The cinematography masterfully contrasts the monotony of suburban life with the chaos of a zombie apocalypse, creating a world that feels both grounded and absurd. The practical effects, from the grotesque zombie makeup to the inventive kill sequences, pay homage to classic horror while injecting a comedic flair that keeps the tone lighthearted. It’s a delicate balance that the film strikes with remarkable finesse.
