ZOMBIECON Volume 1

3 stars

Miracle Media. Digital. Out Now

Cosplay is an important part of fandom these days with fans dressing up as their favourite characters – there are often competitions for the best costumes at conventions. Such is the backdrop of this comedy horror.

Four friends, collectively known as Rocket’s Rockets are heading to a small local convention to try and win the coveted prize, as they have done two years previously, and make their way to the nationals. They are Rocket (Manny Luke), Claire (Erin Áine), Javier (Christian Casillas) and Punkie (Punkie Johnson). Despite their arch rival Zander (Carlo Mendez) they are triumphant and head off to a local store to buy booze to celebrate. Unfortunately not all folks appreciate their artistry and they have a run in with some local thugs.

Whilst heading back after this altercation, Claire gets given a strange glowing crystal by a mysterious man. Later she wishes that all jerks become zombies – which may not have been the best idea.

Before long her wish has come true and a zombie attacks them in the apartment … news reports indicate the undead outbreak is spreading. The quartet arm up with the various weapons they would normally use for their costumes and head out to try and rescue Rocket’s mum from the marauding menace.

Clearly made on a slim budget, it is a film produced with a love for the genre and with an enthusiastic cast – with the four fans giving off a genuine sense of friendship as they band together. It is well shot, though there is a little too much handheld shakycam for my liking. Due to monetary limitations the depiction of zombies is a bit crude, but this doesn’t spoil the fun – and it does get super gory at times.

Steve Kirkham