Pontypool (2008) #441

"Pontypool" is one of the more unique horror movies that I've seen in the past ten years, possibly the most unique since "Uzamaki". This movie is a great example on how to properly tell more than show what's going on, and the fact that the entire movie takes place in a radio station makes perfect sense. The premise of the movie is simple - the residents of the little town of Pontypool, Ontario, are succumbing to a viral diease that makes them crazy and murderous, forming in to mobs and killing the uninifected. But here's the catch, the virus is passed through words, specifically the English language! You can tell when someone is infected when they begin in repeating the same word over and over again, as if they forgot what it meant and they're trying to remember.

Stephen McHattie plays morning radio host Grant Mazzy, a man who is most definitely not happy with where he is in life. This is a great character to watch, a big city personality who bulldozes his way past and through his agent, his producer, and even the audience that he's broadcasting to. He's not a bad person, he's just not suited for a small town setting. His strength is radio presence, his commanding voice, and his ability to take hold of the breaking story. 

There is a delightful underlining sense of humor that sprinkled throughout the film. Some of the moments shine through with the characters honest reactions to the chaos and absurdity. One such moment is when Mazzy is trying to console his producer Sydney after an acquaintance is killed, and she off handly reveals a shocking secret about that person. Another "wtf" gem is a cameo appearance by Tony Burgess, who wrote both the novel and screenplay of "Pontypool". 

"Pontypool" is an extremely enjoyable film that you'll want to watch more than once. It's clever and thought provoking, with just a touch of gore and violence to really set the tone. Easily one if my favorite horror movies in the last few years.