Okay, we all know the drill by know: A desperate handful of people must do their best to survive and stay alive after a virus causes the bulk of the population to turn into ferocious flesh-eating ghouls. So far, so familiar. But fortunately director/co-writer Glenn Ciano proves to be competent enough to keep this picture on track: The snappy pace rarely falters once the zombies start attacking, the characters are drawn with some depth, the backwoods location is well used, there's a handy helping of graphic gore, and Ciano pulls out all the stirring stops in the lively and exciting last third. Moreover, Ciano warrants extra praise for concluding the story on a note of careful optimism that doesn't seem forced or too sappy. However, it's the seasoned and dynamic presence of two dependable old pros who give it their proverbial all that really makes this movie hum: Michael Madsen attacks his role as the rough'n'tumble Louis Hartley with his trademark growly gusto while William Forsythe likewise really sinks his teeth into his juicy part as macho two-fisted physician Dr. Edward Dennehey; the strong chemistry between these guys makes the friendship between the two characters utterly convincing and engaging in comparable measure. The other cast members are decent and acceptable, but it's the formidable duo of Madsen and Forsythe who elevate this film several additional notches above average and keep it enjoyable throughout. As an tasty bonus, buxom blonde babe Tracey Sheldon briefly bares her beautifully bountiful boobs. Ben DeLuca's crisp cinematography provides a bright polished look. Eric Masunaga's cool rocking score does the hard-pumping trick. No classic, but a good deal of energetic fun just the same.
Review of Infected
