The Return of the Living Dead (1985) Review in 2025
A group of bumbling morticians accidentally unleash a horde of reanimated corpses in this hilarious and action-packed horror-comedy.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to graphic violence and gore.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of horror-comedy and action. It's a cult classic that has stood the test of time, and its blend of humor and horror makes it a great choice for a fun night in.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie starts with a group of morticians, led by Burt (Clu Gulager), who are tasked with disposing of a shipment of toxic gas. However, things take a turn for the worse when they accidentally release the gas, which reanimates the corpses of people who have died from the gas. The group must then fight for survival against the undead hordes.
Review Details
story8.50/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a great balance of humor and horror. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping the viewer on the edge of their seat.
acting8.50/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the entire cast. Clu Gulager and James Karen are particularly memorable, bringing a lot of humor and charm to their roles.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, with standout performances from Clu Gulager and James Karen. The morticians are relatable and likable, making it easy to root for them.
direction9.00/10
Dan O'Bannon's direction is top-notch, bringing the story to life with a great sense of style and atmosphere. The pacing is well-balanced, with a great mix of action, horror, and comedy.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a great use of lighting and camera angles to create a creepy and atmospheric setting. The special effects are also impressive, especially considering the budget.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Return of the Living Dead is a hilarious and action-packed horror-comedy that is full of memorable characters, quotable lines, and impressive special effects. The story is engaging and well-paced, with a great balance of humor and horror.
Cons
The movie can be a bit slow-paced at times, and some of the characters may feel a bit one-dimensional. However, these are minor complaints in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a moron, I'm a mortician!"
"They're not the living dead, they're the living... dead!"
"We're not just morticians, we're the undertakers of the living dead!"
