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The Crazies (2010)

2010 • 1h 41m • Horror, Action • R
On September 25, 2026
#2847▲ 4938
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All reviews

John Chard on The Crazies

8/10 · Oct 8, 2019

Breck Eisner directed The Crazies (2010), a reimagining of George A. Romero’s 1973 film, with a screenplay by Scott Kosar and Ray Wright. Timothy Olyphant, Rhada Mitchell, and Joe Anderson lead the cast. The story centers on a small town in America where a toxic spill contaminates the water supply, transforming some residents into violent lunatics. This remake is an unusual find these days—a horror update that surpasses its predecessor. That might upset those who are strict about Romero’s work, but his original film wasn't particularly strong to begin with. This makes it suitable for a fresh take, even though the seemingly endless stream of horror remakes coming out of Hollywood can feel tiresome. I'd even say we've seen this kind of thing before; nothing in The Crazies will have dedicated horror fans excitedly recommending it to their friends. However, it’s an effective horror film, frequently tense and at times disturbingly graphic. Eisner isn’t a "Craven" or anything like "Romero," but he handles the material with energy and demonstrates a talent for knowing how to make it work. The movie is divided into three sections. The first introduces the characters in the quaint town of Ogden Marsh, then shows the effects of the contamination as people descend into madness. Next comes the military’s attempt to regain control, followed by the aftermath as the remaining survivors struggle to endure and understand what's happening. Eisner and his writers even manage to avoid fully developing the main characters. We know Olyphant’s sheriff is capable, and his pregnant wife, Mitchell, is equally resourceful, while the deputy played by Joe Anderson—the film’s strongest performer—is dependable and skilled with a rifle. It doesn't matter that these characters lack depth; let the crazies pursue them and see how they react. The writers earn extra credit for portraying a world losing its humanity. The infected are rounded up and isolated, no one bothers to try helping them, and those sent to restore order are as dangerous as the people bleeding from their eyes and ears. Madness is everywhere. With memorable scenes of bloodshed, genuine suspense, and intelligent writing, this is an excellent remake horror film. 7.5/10

Source on TMDB