From the beginning, the “Zombies” theme has been
accepting others for who they are internally, not what they look like
externally. The movies have taught children (and adults) not to judge a book by
its cover, and to include those who are different. Addison, reprised by Meg
Donnelly, has been the ray of hope and bravery from the very first time we saw
her, and it is no different in “Zombies 3.” She has been the best through the trilogy
but she truly becomes her own in this fantasy film.
In “Zombies 3,” aliens appear in Seabrook looking for
its most precious thing so that they can find their utopia. While a large
number of the residents are scared and unwilling to accept them, Addison immediately
comes forward inviting them to stay in their peaceful town and participate in the
cheer-off competition that she has arranged.
On top of their visitors from outer space, Zed,
reprised by Milo Manheim, is working hard to impress college recruiters and
become the first Zombie to attend college – and of course, it just so happens
to be the school Addison is going to. If that isn’t enough, relationships are
disrupted as new crushes are made.
“Zombies 3” gives fans more of what they love about
this franchise – great song and dance numbers. With eight new catchy songs,
fans everywhere are given new lyrics and dances to learn. Tessa Smith said in
her review, “The original movie still takes the cake when it comes the best
songs, but this one certainly has some great ones as well.”
The choreography is on point, as the actors are getting
more and more comfortable with dancing. Smith credited, “The opening song,
Alien Invasion, is sure to put viewers in a great mood and leave them with
their jaw on the floor thanks to some kick butt dance moves.”
For the plot, it’s not perfect, but it stays
entertaining throughout – especially for the main audience. Fans already know
the majority of the characters very well, and they remain true to themselves in
this third film. The aliens are newcomers and it is pretty easy to fall in love
with them thanks to great character development and some hilarious moments.
Smith said, “Being a harmonious species who don’t have human emotions allows
them to be most of the comedic relief in ZOMBIES 3.”
While the plot twists are predictable for adults
watching, a lot of the kids will be shocked as the story continues. Smith
noted, “There is one moment in particular that many will be surprised by
(pleasantly), and might even cause those who truly love these characters to
shed some tears — so have tissues handy.”
Kylee Russell (who plays Eliza) was, unfortunately,
unable to film alongside her long-time “Zombies” co-stars because she was pregnant
at the time, however, the writers did a great job of making sure she was still
included in the movie in a way that makes sense and works. Eliza has been a
huge part of the franchise from the beginning, so fans will appreciate seeing
her do what she does best. That was better than not including her at all.
The biggest problem with the film is that some plot
points feel like they jump to a conclusion without enough time to explain
exactly what happened. Smith said, “Again, it is pretty predictable, and while
there are many great songs and dance numbers, they don’t hold a candle to the
ones from the first two movies.”
That said, it is a really fun movie, especially for long-time
fans, that feels like a nice end to the franchise leaving the lovable
characters in a place everyone can be happy about.
“Zombies 3” once again shows audiences that we can all
get along, no matter how different we are. It teaches acceptance, love, and addition
in a way that comes naturally. The actors have all settled into these
characters and know them so well that they are easy to relate to. The three
main characters, the aliens, add some great moments, along with some conflict,
to the story.
Overall, it is wonderful to see the zombies,
werewolves, cheerleaders, and now aliens, put aside their differences and learn
to get along. They don’t always trust each other, but they are willing to try
their hardest to do so. Smith said, “It is just a bonus that this movie adds in
the lesson that love is love, and allow LGBTQ+ kids to see themselves on
screen.”
“Zombies 3” could be the end of the franchise, as it
finishes a trilogy with an ending that feels like the end. However, if Zed and
Addison have taught us anything it is never say never. Fingers crossed, fans
will get to explore what our favorite cheerleaders and monsters have been up to…someday.
Personally, I thought this was a fine addition to the
series. It is nothing special, although I didn’t like how they included aliens,
but whatever. Still check this out if you’re a fan of this franchise because
you will like it. Especially with the great songs.
Look out later when I review a film that I saw last
night.
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