Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Not a spoof but a smart, comedic homage to zombie movies, specifically George Romero’s “Dead” trilogy. Simon Pegg, who plays Shaun, and director Edgar Wright co-wrote the pitch-perfect script — from “We’re coming to get you, Barbara” to the finale in a cellar.

d: Edgar Wright | imdb.com | trailer | more private time

Dawn of the Dead (2004)

In an update of George Romero’s 1978 classic, the zombies are fast, and they’re chasing Sarah Polley, Ving Rhames, Jake Weber and Mekhi Phifer. This “Dawn of the Dead” delivers better acting and special effects but not the same sense of play in the mall.

d: Zack Snyder | imdb.com | trailer