10 Horror Movies You Really Wanted To Like (But Actually Couldn’t)
4. The Dead Don't Die
The Dead Don't Die revolves around two schlubby police officers, Cliff (Bill Murray) and Ronnie (Adam Driver), who try to maintain peace in town after the locals turn into zombies.
Though the premise is straightforward, The Dead Don't Die should've been elevated by the talent involved. As can be seen in Only Lovers Left Alive, writer and director, Jim Jarmusch, has a knack for finding the comedy and tragedy in the supernatural. He's worked with Murray and Driver before, so he should know how to get the best out of them, especially when they're working off one another.
Sadly, The Dead Don't Die has numerous issues. Despite taken place in a zombie apocalypse, there's minimal suspense or urgency, which makes the narrative feel inconsequential. Even though Shaun of the Dead and Zombieland are comedies, they always emphasised the ensemble were in grave danger.
Deadpan humour may be Jarmusch's bread and butter, but this form of comedy feels overdone here. Although there's nothing wrong with meta-jokes, the self-aware moments referencing the script and theme song don't match the film's tone.
Even if you love Jarmusch's work, it might be best to sit this one out.