Remi’s emotions about making a zombie film are rapidly sublimated into the method of creating a zombie film. He paces up and down naturally lit hallways and staircases, both fills in or delegates last-minute problem-solving, and usually tries to maintain all people blissful. He particularly needs to please his spouse and daughter Romy (Simone Hazanavicius, the actual director’s daughter), who loves Raphael and can also be very opinionated about authenticity. They race concerning the digicam, put out numerous fires, and feverishly assume on their toes in methods that may perhaps re-orient how viewers see the zombie film that begins “Remaining Lower.” Now it’s not simply one other schlocky potboiler—it’s a staff effort, a busy however thrilling high-wire act, a relay race, and a work-for-hire nightmare multi function.
Duris’ wired efficiency appears emblematic of the film’s hectic temper, however a lot of the film’s comedy dies on the vine, given how intentionally stretched out the film’s pregnant pauses and lifeless air now really feel. “Remaining Lower” feels lengthy, even when it’s solely about 12 minutes longer than “One Lower of the Lifeless.” Nonetheless, that further legwork doesn’t confer higher depth, nor does this form of high-concept stunt play to its solid or author/director’s comedic strengths.
Among the acquainted and faithfully recreated twists and turns of the unique “One Lower of the Lifeless” nonetheless land right here, however not sufficient to make this leaden remake appear endearing or zany sufficient to choose by. By spoon-feeding film lovers an overcaffeinated sendup of the filmmaking course of, Hazanavicius and the gang have solely dumped a bunch of pre-solved homework into viewers’ laps, leaving us to maintain up as they cheerlessly present all their work.
Now enjoying in theaters.
