“Paranorman” [Our Review] is an amazing film that sneaked a smart, sophisticated, emotionally charged horror story into a kids movie. It deftly deals with the fear of the unknown, the cost of bullying and isolation and the ever-widening impact of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. It’s a surprisingly complex story that matures seamlessly as it’s told.
The zombies of Blithe Hollow are the original townsfolk responsible for condemning the now fabled “Witch of Blithe Hollow” hundreds of year earlier. They are absolutely dead and absolutely zombies but, other than that, not a bad bunch when you slow down and get to know them. In fact, they spend most of their time trying to help out and being attacked in the process.
Zombies may not be the most obvious of allies but in this case an exception must be made. Seeing this bunch of regret-filled groaners peacefully back to their graves is satisfying for all parties involved. The climax of the movie – powerful, touching and unforgettable as it is – is accomplished in no small part to their assistance. For this we salute the misunderstood zombies of Blithe Hollow!
