Seth Grahame-Smith, Jane Austen ‘Pride and Prejudice and Zombies’ Review

Written by: Matt Molgaard

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies hasn’t exactly set the theaters on fire. In fact, if you head out to get a peek at the movie, you’ll probably see less than a dozen moviegoers occupying seats. Including my wife and myself, there were 8 people in the opening showing last Friday. It wasn’t a good sign, and when box office tallies were released on Wednesday, and showcased terribly abysmal figures for the film, I wasn’t too surprised. Some stories just aren’t going to capture the attention of film fans. But that doesn’t make Pride and Prejudice and Zombies a bad story, by any stretch of the imagination.

The truth is, this is a story that belongs on paper. I thought the film was fun. But the novel is genius. It’s no secret that I loathe zombie novels. This one, however, I couldn’t pass up. Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter was such a stunning piece of work that I had to crack this one open when it arrived in the mail. Seth Grahame-Smith is an intelligent, creative guy who puts together some mind blowing material. I admire the hell out of his ability to make a period piece feel contemporary and relevant. My opinion of him hasn’t changed after reading Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

The story is richly layered and the human elements of the story leave the undead lingering in the background. But as Elizabeth tangles with mixed emotions for Mr. Darcy, and while Darcy feuds with an age old nemesis, the unmentionables do indeed spring forth, eager to chew on flesh and willing to do anything to make the dream meal the real deal. Fortunately for our human protagonists, they’re well-versed in combat and so ensues a battle between the living and the dead all while relationships are teased, tugged and tangled up unwavering yet defensive love.

Yeah, it’s every bit as amazing as it sounds.

The novel is absolutely loaded with memorable characters, insane conflicts and the expected betrayals and deceptions associated with young love and aging friendship. It’s a remarkable read, Grahame-Smith reminding us why we love his work so much. The man is a visionary unlike we’ve seen thus far.

Order it here. And check out the movie, it’s a pretty decent transfer!

Rating: 5/5