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| Inglourious Basterds | 8.5/10 |
| Star Trek | 9/10 |
| Monsters vs Aliens | 5/10 |
| Sin Nombre | 8.5/10 |
| Duplicity | 7.5/10 |
World War Z Movie Details Revealed - Children of Men With Zombies?
March 27, 2008
Source: AICN
by Alex Billington
One day prior to the exact day last year that we first announced Max Brooks' World War Z was being adapted, we finally hear some details on how the movie will play out. I remember first writing the news and becoming immediately excited despite having not actually read the book. And over the last year I've run into countless people who keeping telling me how great the book is. The script was written by comic book author J. Michael Straczynski, who most recently wrote Clint Eastwood's Changeling and was one of the creators of "Babylon 5". AICN just got their hands on the finished script and have reported back with a very positive reaction.
Moriarty's enthusiasm for Straczynski's script is through the roof. "I love this script. Love every dark, somber, upsetting page of it. This is a horror epic, a serious, sober-minded adult picture waiting to be made, and it's one of the best pieces of screenwriting craft I've encountered in a while." Before we get into the meat of the movie, though, let's take a look at the book again so we're clear on what it actually contains. "The book is an oral history of the great zombie wars, compiled by a nameless editor as part of a government report."
Ten years after the human victory over the world wide Zombie epidemic, referred to as World War Z, Max Brooks scours the world collecting the stories and experiences of those who have survived the conflict that almost eradicated humanity.
It is in essence just oral recollections from survivors of World War Z. This is not your typical zombie book and this won't be your typical zombie movie. Moriarty goes as far as to call the movie potentially "a genre-defining piece of work" that could even get people "arguing about whether or not a zombie movie qualifies as Best Picture material." Wow, that's quite a powerful statement, but then again, we don't even know what to expect yet. It's time to get into the details.
"In the first five pages, we see GERRY LANE collecting stories, and the first two interviews are with a flight attendant and a border guard. Both manage to play as horror shock beats, but the way they're told also sets the tone right away… JMS is after the human truth underneath the horror, and in a way, that makes it much, much harder to take."
From what I can interpret, the movie follows this particular archiver / journalist, named Gerry Lane (who might be played Brad Pitt), around as he travels the world conducting interviews with survivors. Again, from what I can interpret, it's almost like a documentary, but set in a post-zombie-apocalyptic world with much more to it than just talking heads.
"The world of the film reminds me of CHILDREN OF MEN on the page. Realistic but set in the near-future, in the aftermath of the zombie wars. We see a flashback to Gerry being given his assignment to write a report about 'where the system worked, where it didn't, how and in what ways the various organizational infrastructures failed.' It's a politically shitty job because no one wants to know that they were responsible for anything that went wrong. Gerry's hesitant because it's going to take at least six months away from his family, just as the world is starting to right itself. He takes the job, and as he travels to his first interview, we see how hard travel has become. I hate going through airport security these days, but at least I don't have to strip naked and subject myself to a blood test. Yet."
Moriarty goes on to describe Gerry's first interview with Dr. Tsai in China. In addition, he praises Straczynski for doing "a great job of etching the details of a world that has already faced its darkest moments and is now trying to put things back in order." What it sounds like the movie is really becoming is one that, while recalling some of the horrific moments from World War Z, instead focuses on the post-apocalyptic world that the survivors now all live in.
"Tsai's account of his first encounter with zombies at New Dachang is awful and horrific, and right away, it's apparent that a combination of bureaucracy and military strategy is responsible for a sort of passive evil, and Tsai feels enormous guilt about it. He leads Gerry to his next interview, which leads him to his next, and one of the things that the script does so well is depict survivors who are starting to wonder if survival is a victory of any kind. There's a story about black market organs that is just brutal, an off-the-record conversation with a CIA friend, and an insane beach sequence that I can't wait to see on film. All in the first 50 pages."
My next question, which Moriarty doesn't seem to answer, is whether each of these interviews turns into a flashback that is depicted on screen. Or whether we just get the talking head plus some sort of other dynamic imagery. I'm guessing, considering this was described as "epic", that each of the stories we hear will indeed be shown. As in, a post-World War Z narrative that is weaved with stories from the past that, if directed correctly, could be fashioned into an incredibly fulfilling look at the world before, during, and after World War Z.
While Moriarty does mention that this was a draft dated April 2007, it did feel complete enough to go into production right away. So, as always, don't take anything you read in here as solid fact, but rather a report from someone who read a draft of a script that was over 11 months old. The key point here is that the direction the movie seems to be heading is absolutely brilliant. I wish I could have read the script myself, but for now we'll have to go on Moriarty's word.
We haven't heard any updates recently, but the film isn't in production and is still looking for a director. Hopefully someone as amazing as Children of Men's Alfonso Cuarón takes on this project - because it couldn't succeed without them.
Does this sound like J. Michael Straczynski has pulled off a brilliant script for a challenging adaptation? Or is this taking it too far for something as mundane as a zombie movie?
•  |
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Reader Feedback - 107 Comments »
1
I'm there opening night.
Brad Pitt possibly? Sign me up. EPIC indeed.
Chem1st on Mar 27, 2008
2
ZOMBIES rock!… I'm getting this book today.
Huck Paletos on Mar 27, 2008
3
The book was incredible and I hope the movie does it justice!
Kendall Morales on Mar 27, 2008
4
Soundz Awezome.
Djo on Mar 27, 2008
5
I've got the book and have been meaning to read it when I get a chance. My brother has read the same authors Zombie Survival guide which was refreshingly devoid of any tongue in cheek. I'm hoping that this book, and maybe film, will be the same.
Just a note to the OP. Babylon 5 was J Michael Strazi?????? baby. Rather than being a contributing writer, it was his opus.
Payne by name on Mar 27, 2008
6
I love zombie movies so I hope this is cool, but you guys are getting way too excited about this so-so book. The book lost me when one character describes how the American people didn't react to the zombie threat right away because they were still so upset about Iraq.
In other words flesh eating zombies are wandering the streets but people are saying, "Sorry, I can't be bothered with that. Not until we get this Iraq thing figured out."
Kelly Parks on Mar 27, 2008
7
The book is fantastic and is told by the people thru flashbacks. So i hope the movie does it well.
So of the stories are just so amazing and terrible i cant wait to see it.
Alex i will lend you my copy if you want to read it.
Heckle on Mar 27, 2008
8
Sweet. I hope they have the blind Japanese man/teenage geek story in the movie. That was probably my favorite chapter.
Anonymous on Mar 27, 2008
9
"The script was written by comic book author J. Michael Straczynski, who most recently wrote Eastwood's The Changeling and is a regular contributing writer on 'Babylon 5'"
Contributing writer?
What?
The guy created the series and wrote 91 of the 110 episodes (plus 5 movies, various tie-in comics and books, and more). And he's not just some comic writer, he's a Hugo award winning veteran of television writing going back to the early 1980s. And his comics are some of the most well regarded and best-selling (and occasionally controversial) in the industry.
For the record.
Mr. G on Mar 27, 2008
10
This could be one of the best movies of all time, or one of the worst. Even as I was reading the book I was thinking that it would make a tremendous movie, as long as they do it right.
Mike Rodi on Mar 27, 2008
11
Contributing writer????
I'm rolling in my grave from that comment and I'm not even dead yet … though that comment may just kill me …
That's like saying Mozart "dabbled a bit in musical genre" before he died.
Come on, Alex. Shame on you.
E on Mar 27, 2008
12
To Mr G : precisely 
To Mike: "as long as they do it right" … this is JMS we're talking about. No wrong could ever be done by his pen. It's morons who try to screw with his work that make things wrong. It's the money whores that make things wrong.
E on Mar 27, 2008
13
It is actually just Changeling, no The on the front end of it — The Changeling is a whole other movie coming out
Moviequill on Mar 27, 2008
14
15
it sounds like it could be amazing if directed right and not just thrown together, get some good actors (brad pitt awesome choice) and some epic scenes and this could be the best zombie movie. Kick ass name to World War Z!
Curtis on Mar 27, 2008
16
Brad Pitt is one of my least favorite actors. This is one of my favorite zombie stories. Please don't let him ruin it. It will not be a best picture film with him. Just saw Babel he just doesn't seem real in the movies I've seen him in. The basic idea of the script sounds right. I've had zombie dreams since I was 14. The theme deserves an epic.
Jon on Mar 27, 2008
17
Sounds like an interesting new way to portray A HORRIBLE IDEA.
Zombies suck. Period. If it were some other more believable and less laughable disaster, sign me up.
Anon on Mar 27, 2008
18
"…was one of the creators of 'Babylon 5'"
Don't need to harp on a minor point, but in case it isn't clear, he is the sole creator.
"I meant contributing as in currently, since he's not there still fulltime, right?"
Did you follow the IMDb link you posted? Babylon 5 ended in 1998. There have been several television movies since then, including a direct-to-DVD film from last year that he wrote, produced, *and* directed. So, there is no there there to be fulltime, but when there is, its all his, lock, stock, and barrel. There is no Babylon 5 anything without J. Michael Straczynski.
Mr. G on Mar 27, 2008
19
I enjoyed the audiobook version of World War Z way more than the book itself.
The film just will not do the audiobook experience justice.
Duncan on Mar 28, 2008
20
The audiobook is undoubtedly the perfect way to experience Straczynski's stories. The acting is fantastic and really lends a much more genuine quality to the characters - mostly down to the accents - than the book alone. If anyone is thinking of picking this up, get the audiobook! It's worth it for Mark Hamill alone.
Ross on Mar 29, 2008
21
Ever since Babylon 5, I have been waiting for JMS to do another amazing thing, this looks to be it!
Callista Maris on Mar 29, 2008
22
This is the best apocalypic book I have ever read in my life. The failure of human systems & the betrayal by those in authority is horrific. A must read.
Keith on Mar 30, 2008
23
Straczynski is the loser who ruined spider-man. And he even managed to do that BEFORE this one more day crap.
Thundermatts on Mar 30, 2008
24
So-so book?
Man, honestly… Dead City is the only zombie novel that rivals WWZ. It's important to note, also, that the reason Americans weren't as affected as other people is that the media helped to gloss everythign over, as well as the addition of a "miracle drug" that let people feel like it would be just a passing scientific study. More importantly, as an American I can confidently say that at least 1/4 of our population are retards, and honestly would turn a blind eye to everything.
Anyway- can't wait for the movie. I have Straczynski as a writer, but maybe he'll surprise me here. The addition of Brad Pitt here doesn't give me much more hope; he's had a few good movies (notably Snatch) but I feel they could have gotten a much better lead. But hey, he got the rights for it lol.
Too bad they didn't see how Will Smith did in I Am Legend, he'd be a great lead for this film, I think.
Matt on Apr 5, 2008
25
I liked the books too; not sure what I make of Brad Pitt being cast in the upcoming film, which suggests to me a re-write is a likelihood to support his inevitably bigger role. I like Pitt, and he's made some great films, but Brooks' novel had the potential to be the first Oscar-winning zombie flick (what? It *could* happen!) and while Pitt is a strong indicator of a quality film, his presence might mean a bit of a shake-up in the foundations that make the original text work. We'll have to wait and see.
Sheamus on Apr 6, 2008
26
Brad Pitt wont be in this, but his production company does own the rights and it's them who are driving it to the screen.
Nick on Apr 11, 2008
27
As long as Mark Hamil plays Tod Wanio, I will be happy
Rich on May 12, 2008
28
The book was amazing, this better be a long movie. There's no way they could fit it all in in an hour and a half.
Jesse on May 18, 2008
29
The audio book was awesome, Henry Rollins(Black Flag , Rollins Band) was great in it.
TOP 2 ZOMBIE MOVIES FOR ME(IF YOU WANT TO CALL THEM ZOMBIES)
1. 28 DAYS LATER
2. DAWN OF THE DEAD
I dont care what anyone says, zombies that can actually catch you and that you arent able to just push to the ground when the do, rule. I have checked out a LOT of different zombie movies and these are the best. I cant wait for Dawn of The Dead 2 and 28 Months Later. But, this was the first "slow moving zombie story" I really enjoyed. And, "Diary of the Dead" wasnt bad either. I know all the hard core zombie fans are into the old school zombies, but there boooooooring!!!.
Siggy
Kent Siggy on May 24, 2008
30
As has been previously mentioned this has the potential to be an absolutely fantastic movie,but it could also be one of the biggest let-downs EVER! They have to get every bit of this movie true to the book,which is an amazing read regardless if you are a major zombie fan or not. I urge you to read a copy of World War Z if you already haven't,after the first couple of chapters i was already thinking to myself that if handled correctly it could be the greatest horror,let alone zombie,film ever made!!
As for the greatest zombie movie to date:Has to be George A Romero's 'Dawn Of The Dead',no other zombie film leaves you with such a deep feeling of hopelessness,desperation and dread.
Barry Evans on May 28, 2008
31
The Zombie genre can be viewed on two levels at the same time. On one level, it's just fun getting scared and grossed out. The idea of an apocalypse being brought about by humankind and/or something unknown has been written about for millenia, as well.
On another level, though, the Zombie genre usually comments on a variety of human issues and aspects of society, which makes it even more interesting - issues such as mass consumerism, ignorance and complacency of the masses, ineffectual & inefficient bureaucracies, racial and social class/power struggles, the ultimate helplessness of humans against nature, science/military/bureaucracy run amok, etc. Really, most of us are Zombies anyway, just doing what we've always done, becoming a part of those senseless masses. These tales really are asking, what does it take to change some of these societal ills?
People who automatically dismiss the Zombie genre, along with Horror, Sci-Fi, even Fantasy too, haven't accurately assessed these genres. They should give 'em a chance.
By the way, some of my favorite Zombie flics are: Night of the Living Dead (original), Zombie, 28 Days Later, Shaun of the Dead, Dawn of the Dead (original & remake), 28 Weeks Later, Planet Terror…….George Romero is amazing for continuing his Zombie Saga - haven't seen the latest yet, but I hope for the best…….
Ray F on May 28, 2008
32
Ah man this was the best book ever. Big zombie fan and like someone metioned before I've been having zombie dreams since I was a kid. I feel priveledged just to have read the book so if the film sucks I dont care ’cause I've still got the book.
Oh yeah to those that said " zombies suck" etc, thanks for the intelligent input!
PS I live in Ireland, and we survive the outbreak unscathed. Haha
Shane on May 29, 2008
33
The potential for this to be ruined is pretty distinct. Max Brooks has repeatedly mentioned in interviews that he has nothing to do with this adaptation of his text, so that gives this screenwriter free reign. Will he stay true to the thrust of the book, or pull some ego trip and change it to suit his fancy? Most screenwriters opt for the latter, in my admittedly limited experience. But here's to hope. Or at least the Battle of New Hope.
For those of you who want to keep reading about WWZ-related works, check out talesofworldwarz.com - plenty of user-submitted material to be thrilled by.
World War Z on Jun 25, 2008
34
They should have the chapter about the kids defending the colledge in the movie - that could be a great flick in its self !
a3a on Jul 2, 2008
35
My favorite story definatly has to be Yonkers, but I didn't read the entire book yet….The way they are making this movie sounds awsome actually, but I just hope when they go into the interveiws, that it will not be like talking heads…that would ruin it all!
Frank on Jul 3, 2008
36
I read the book and it was great. I was surprised how well put together it was. A Docudrama new twist.
I myself have been writing on a zombie book for 2 years now and hope to finish this year. Kind of a Tom Clancy with a Romero twist and a pinch of Robin Cook. A Bio-terrorst plot goes hugely wrong.
Hopefully I can find a publisher.
chuck on Jul 10, 2008
37
I loved both his books. Fantastic reading.
I waiting with baited breath for World War Z the movie and hoping that it is not USA centralized (Battle of Yonkers and so on.)
I loved the Japanese teenager and the old blind gardener.
The story of the Chinese sub and its crew sailing the oceans for 3 years.
Theres a great one about ferel children and the dogs. So sad.
The story of the astronauts was excellent as well.
I still think that it would make one hell of a one of a tv series, giving time to each story.
jolyna on Jul 18, 2008
38
i really am looking forward to this movie, i read the book and couldn't put it down it had me hooked from the moment i started, i just hope that they can make the movie as graphic and exciting as the book and not too hollywood if you get my meaning!! brad pitt as the reporter…….. not too sure on that one
reggie on Jul 24, 2008
39
I love zombie movies ever since i was a kid. Although I haven't finished it this book is awsome. I realy hope the screenwritter does a good job of bringing the plot to life. this book has a lot to offer. But how many times in the passed have great books been murder by the egoes of big screenwriters. So for all the hard core fans of zombies, such as myself. Let's keep our fingers crossed that some one has put together a zombie movie worth be called Oscar worthy. Anybody looking for a good follow up book to read after your done with wwz you should read The Rising and Dead City. Both great books by Keen.
Son of dawn on Aug 6, 2008
40
This sounds friggin awesome. However, one quick observation. People who say 28 Days Later was the best zombie movie should re-consider. The hokie British supermarket scene totally killed it for me. Plus, the people are infected, not the living dead. Thus, they are not really zombies, sorry dude.
Ryan Brady on Aug 8, 2008
41
The battle of Yonkers was the funniest, and saddest points in the book. Surely this will be a great moment on screen. Just, please… for the love of anything worth creating, I hope they cast neither Will Smith or Brad Pitt for these roles. I'll give it to Will though. Without him, I Am Legend is pure garbage. And I'm not a big fan of most of his stuff.
My opinion… it will be tough to top either version of Dawn of the Dead. They have got to get behind WWZ with a documentative approach, or else it will fall to the wayside.
I'll take your advice though and pick up the audio version. Sounds like a good time. The book was great, and the survival manual is pretty good too. Although I did catch myself yawning from time to time. The guide could've been better.
Jeremy on Aug 18, 2008
42
Theres a great one about feral children? I thought that was the weakest and least "believable" story of all of them.
Josh on Aug 18, 2008
43
My favorite zombie movie is Aliens. Think about it: people are turned into mindless, flesh-eating, killing machines.
Ben on Aug 19, 2008
44
MOoooooaaan
shuffle
shuffle
MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAn
Zack on Aug 26, 2008
45
1. I hope that they cast this with well with real actors and not those that just have A-List names with craptacular acting ability… (Read: Anyone from a Disney movie in the last 20 years or has appeared on a celebrity magazine like Star or People).
2. I'd be really interested to see what it would look like if they did a "Four Rooms" approach. Where each story is directed by a different director. Obviously these could only be directors with serious cred within the genre and fans. Of course keeping to a common theme so they are not all weird like The Animatrix.
Whenever the producers and studios try to appeal to as wide an audience as possible, they ruin the original work for the real fans.
JONNY Z on Aug 28, 2008
46
A friend bought me this book last year becuase she knows i hate zombies. I love horror but zombie movies give me nightmares, even at 32 years of age. I still watch them though and I hope the movie version does this book justice. She also bought me the zombie survival guide both of which I read once and put away… FAR FAR AWAY. I recently started reading world war z again and it still freaks me out. Books don't scare me, not even Stephen Kings books but Max Brook's two books absolutely terrified me. Last night I was reading WWZ and I kept looking over my shoulder at every noise. I really hope the movie is more like the book and less like a typical zombie movie. I'd like to see the movie made as interviews with flashbacks.
I think the scariest part of WWZ to me was when the kid in Japan gave his interview about how he would spend all his days online talking to other people about the zombies and how less and less people were online and thenone day his parents were gone and he was trying to get out of his building.
I can't wait for the movie and I hope, REALLY HOPE it lives up to the feeling and and atmosphere created in the book.
LB on Sep 2, 2008
47
I read this book, and right when I finished it I immediately thought it should be a movie. I really hope it goes into production. I am definitely there opening night!
Brendon on Sep 19, 2008
48
What friggin tard thinks Brad Pitt isn't a good actor?????? Are you guys retarded? Troy, the Ocean's Movies, Snatch. May I go on?
The book was utterly stellar. As I was reading I was thinking and hoping they would make a movie! The only thing I hope for is that they don't have flashback scenes for all interviews, or the movie would be really long and kind of choppy. But they definately have to include every and all Russian scenes. And Japanese scenes. And especially Yonkers and Hope. Amazing stuff Max Brooks; I salute you.
DL on Sep 20, 2008
49
It seems in good hands but this book seems too epic for one film. Could make a good showtime type drama with possible tie ins with Zombie survival guide.
Prof. Damage on Sep 22, 2008
50
This is not just a Zombie movie.
K on Sep 29, 2008
51
This book was outstanding !!!! Better than those Keene novels and the others I have read. I wonder how they are going to do the zombies in the tunnels in London or the little girl (grown woman) who was in the crazy house? The way she could sound like a zombie and the way she told the story that had me on the edge of my seat. I hope they dont do it like children of men that movie SUCK BIG SAGGY B@(($!!!! Brad Pitt no maybe Wesley Snipes or some one like that. Johnny Z said a very good point have the scenes directed by different people.
STEVE R. on Sep 30, 2008
52
The book was epic, it succeeded even where George Romero has failed so recently. i expect the book to be equally epic and am def looking forward to being there opening night!
PF on Oct 2, 2008
53
Guy Pearce would be excellent for this
Q on Nov 5, 2008
54
The book is insanely brilliant. It should not be "just another zombie movie" at all. If they do it well the movie should be amazing (but i have my doubts.)
If you haven't read it already you seriously need to because the description given above doesn't do it any justice.
I will be so disappointed if Hollywood messes it up. The script sounds slightly different than the book, which although i find annoying, I'm willing to give the benefit of the doubt.
btw Brad Pit although a great actor doesn't seem like a great fit to me though.
senia on Nov 12, 2008
55
I am only half way thru this book and I was able to get the hint that this should be a f'ing movie. I loved the girl who did all the voices and the zombie sound, Yonkers obviously and the Pilot chick in the swamps. I have been having my mind blown every page I turn. I just hope that they don't ruin it by making the movie. Also I have a definite no to the Bradster, mr Pitt can stay out of this one. Though a goods actor he is, I don't want him in a zombie movie. I wouldn't take it seriously. And thats saying something if I or any one would want to take a zombie movie seriously. I can't think of any one to put as the reporter, but some one less renown would kindle my flame, because I wouldn't be thinking he is going to do this "thing" like he did in "that" movie. need to finnish the book. 28 days later not that great or a zombie movie.
~Raf
Raf on Nov 14, 2008
56
I knew it would be so but I'm still crushed. This book would make an outstanding animated series that could make the Spawn collection look like the Carebears.
If it takes Pitt's name to put asses in the seats fine, but I'm hoping hollywood doesnt over-makeup this flick. Leave the shaky camera gimmicks at home and use a tripod once in a while. Its one of the few books that really needs a ton of changes to be a great movie. Past present and a hint of future will be good. Set us up where the survivor is, let us see what their life is currently like, then give us sweet flashback action.
Do we know if they're doing slow paced or running zombies? That seems to be the other big discussion amongst Z movie fans. I'm tossing my opinion in on the slow paced side. I'm not even that fond of Romero's works, but the book perfectly illustrates how a war weary country and particularly America's ability to ignore a slow growing problem until it is too late to control has always been the big message in the slow moving zombie films. This doesn't happen in one day with zombies running everywhere, it happens over months, spreading, with outbreaks building. By the time it's big enough to take up any of the leaderships time, it's too late. Likely the producers will go with running zombies, because science knows our attention spans aren't what they used to be, but I hope in reading the book someone realizes that yes, even slow moving, it is so easy to be careless, cornered, and if nothing else, surrounded and frighteningly outnumbered, that you do get taken down. When the enemy can endlessly recruit, never gets tired, and cannot be scared into defeat, they don't NEED to run. There's no rush here guys.
Regardless, I am beyond excited for this movie!
Drew Newman on Dec 1, 2008
57
How would the news report a Zombie outbreak?
What would be the notable differences between MSNBC's reporting of it and FOX New's?
If Zombie's broke out, what would President Obama do?
Would would President Bush have done?
What sort of role would FEMA play in a Zombie situation?
The National Guard?
The Dept. of Homeland Security?
How much of it would be filmed?
At what point would the people who are filming it decide to turn the cameras off?
While the plague is being fought, would anyone bother to gather cell phones or digital cameras from felled Zombies?
If so, what sorts of pictures or movies would be on those devices?
Make up answers to those questions, film them, and cut them together into a fake documentary. There. World War Z: The Motion Picture.
Benedict on Dec 22, 2008
58
For actors they might try considering Nicholas Cage, Clive Owens, or maybe even the chick that plays the female lead on LOST
Xarcies on Dec 23, 2008
59
#57 Benedict said - Make up answers to those questions, film them, and cut them together into a fake documentary. There. World War Z: The Motion Picture…
Well, get to work, man. If it's that easy, start work on the screenplay for the second installment. Now.
My spidey-senses tell me that your post above may be the longest thing you've ever written. Don't walk around thinking that screenplays are easy to write, let alone get sold.
People LOVE to over-simplify things they know nothing about.
farttruck on Dec 28, 2008
60
#57 Benedict said - Make up answers to those questions, film them, and cut them together into a fake documentary. There. World War Z: The Motion Picture…
Well, get to work, man. If it's that easy, start work on the screenplay for the second installment. Now.
My spidey-senses tell me that your post above may be the longest thing you've ever written. Don't walk around thinking that screenplays are easy to write, let alone get sold.
People LOVE to over-simplify things they know nothing about.
Oh, and #58 - Nicholas Cage is over-exposed, and many in hollywood agree, after Bangkok Dangerous, should take some time off.
farttruck on Dec 28, 2008
62
I have been writing a screenplay about zombies for over a year now. Trust me, it's not easy. I hope if WWZ is good and profitable studios will be looking for new screenplays, just my pipedream. Brad Pitt is a great actor but I want good unknowns in WWZ. Still no matter what I am looking forward to this.
Mark on Jan 1, 2009
63
I heard the audio book first, I thought it was amazing, absolutely diabolically engrossing and it freaked me out for weeks. I read the book after, I don't remember my heart actually pounding with fear/anticipation while reading a work of fiction, incredible stuff.
so many gems in the book and audio book.
I like what one of the commenters said, even if the movie blows turds, there'll always be the book
"Tell it to the whales, man."
general singh, the australian astronaut, the young arab being slammed into a wall by his father "I AM YOUR FATHER YOU WILL OBEY ME" india india INDIA the nuclear exchange russia man good stuff.
BenLikesAfricanRabies on Jan 26, 2009
64
really one of the best books i've ever read - awesome - written as a documentary - incredible worldwide zombie attack account - written like nothing else - had me drawn in from page 1 - i can only hope that the movie is just as great - it would be a one of a kind zombie movie!
jawbone on Jan 30, 2009
65
Im a little upset that hollywood had to get their grimey little claws on this book. whatever movie they pump out cant possibly live up to the book. brad or no brad, its gonna be another changed up, mixed up hollywoodified version of a great and moving reading experience especially since everyone now prefers a zombie that can sprint like an olympian. deep inside im looking forward to seeing this film but im not getting my hopes up that it will be any good.
Brandon on Feb 8, 2009
66
Brandon,
I hope we don't see sprinting zombies. Max has made it clear in two books that his zombies are slow zombies. I can't see him letting them get away with fast zombies.
Bob on Feb 14, 2009
67
This book has me all geeked out . I am amazed at the global and individual aspects mr. Brooks has touched on. I laughed out loud at some of the phrases and slang he created for this new horror. I now that sounds sick but the zombie folk are a bit twisted. I keep ranting on and on, this might fly in another setting but a hair Salon full of beautiful woman isn't one of them, man I need to rent a z geek to get all weepy with!
judy on Feb 15, 2009
68
i just read the book and typed world war z on google and now it might be a movie? awesome
cmtaker619 on Feb 18, 2009
69
I think one of the biggest miss-steps they could make in this movie is by using any big name actors…
What makes it great is that the people in these stories could be anyone, you put a familiar face on the screen and you will destroy that no matter how good the actor.
Also, no fast zombies….and I hope they don't shorten the film too much…it's a lot of material and I hope they find a way to get it all in there…it seems everyone has their own favorite personal
account..they are all awesome!
crystackle on Feb 26, 2009
70
Wow…… just got the book today…..
didnt get far but it is hella sweet lmao
get it today!!!!
im not a reader but this book pulled me in
lostweapon on Feb 27, 2009
71
so yea i just finished the zombie survival guide and am getting started on world war z so i did a google search on it HOLYSHIT!! when i found out they were making it a movie i got so freakin excited! but i agree with you guys it could either be really great or really horrible and i hope they dont over hollywood it cuz that would suck and a lot of people would be really dissapointed…like me…oh and the whole brad pitt thing…hes a great actor but i think he would really make this movie suck…no offense…but lets get an unkown actor in their please
Zombiechick on Mar 2, 2009
72
I absolutely love the idea of a World War Z movie, this not only had potential to be a great movie, but possibly the best zombie/ horror film ever. The story max brooks told is REAL horror, not all this superhuman zombie stuff that other movies try and depict. If it's done correctly, this film can really show people that a good plot and some depth is far scarier than the stupid resident evil and 28 days later garbage. In closing, Max Brooks wrote one hell of a book, please hollywood…. just for once, don't fuck this one up, its brilliant the way it is.
OrganizeBeforeTheyRise on Mar 2, 2009
73
28 Days later was not garbage, your comment was OrganizeBeforeTheyRise, it was a beautiful zombie movie, and quite possibly the best to date. And running zombies doesnt make it a bad zombie movie. After all they're infected not zombies…..so I don't know why I called them zombies, but please its a damned good zombie (infected) movie.
Frank C. on Mar 3, 2009
74
It's obvious you didn't understand what I meant, I'm referring to ruining a good movie where the zombies CAN'T run, I just don't want hollywood to someone mess up Brooks's book by mixing and matching the traits of the zombies, cuz it would totally ruin the movie. And if this movie is done correctly it will put 28 days later to shame, I'm not sure if you've read this book but it's about 20 times deeper in plot then 28 days later.
OrganizeBeforeTheyRise on Mar 4, 2009
75
I'd prefer walking zombies, but I've thought up a way to mix both worlds. Freshly risen bodies can still retain the capabilities of it's previous life, but after rigor truly sets in, its back to slow moving stiffness. This way they could make the great panic very chaotic, and then during the sieges and taking back America, return to a more vintage zombie movie feel. The "Hope" scene wouldn't be the same with zombies running. Not nearly the same atmosphere.
I feel if they can do the makeup right, and have the zombies look a little more demonic, the slow moving stiffness style wont feel cheesy at all. When things move slow though, the audience has an easier time dissecting shoddy makeup and cheap plastic wounds.
Drew N on Mar 4, 2009
76
Hey drew i kind of like your idea about having the best of both worlds…even though i much prefer the slow walking ones your idea seems to be a kind of appeasment that everyone can live with
Zombiechick on Mar 5, 2009
77
This funny debate about infected or zombie rages on, I want to clear my throat and use that roat HELLO what the hell do you think made them Z in the first place? Had to be some sort of virus all twisted up in the dna. So infected that want to eat your face or walking dead that want to.. all terrificly horrifying to me. Fast ones make me just pee myself quicker.
judy on Mar 9, 2009
78
oh and is ther anyone typecasting in their heads as they read this book? We all want it perfect , but there are some great on the fringe actors that would really flesh this out (so to speak) I just love the idea of the Japanese computer geek being played by the guy :Shia's co star in Disturbia- ya' know the Japanese one: sorry not great on names. Come on let's do this! add some more thoughts.
judy on Mar 9, 2009
79
For fast and slow zombies mixed check out Plague of the dead and Thunder and ashes by Z A Rech(sp?). Well written good mix of fast and slow Z's. I should play the reporter, I'd be perfect!!
mark on Mar 9, 2009
80
The bodyguard should the guy from the transporter movies, perfect don't give a fuck attitude for that role. Oh and the soldier who fought at the Battle of Yonkers should be played by the BAR man from Saving Private Ryan (Edward Burns) the ultimate personna to look back on that disaster with.
OrganizeBeforeTheyRise on Mar 9, 2009
81
I bought 'The Zombie Survival Guide' around 4-5 years ago… saw it sitting out of place on a shelf in Barnes and Nobles. It was an impulse buy, but I've read it cover to cover witha highlighter at least three times. I have had friends laugh at me for it, but I think zombies are THE scariest things I've ever thought about, heard about, or seen on screen. I have nightmares about them… and It's not really what happens with the gore, etc. it's what happens to the people. The fear, their loss of ones they love to an infection (or whatever) that makes them undead.
When I heard aobut 'World War Z' I was so excited to hear that Brooks came out with another book, and not only that, it's a novel on this subject. I have not read or bought it yet, but I'm very excited to do so. From what I've read about how the story is written and progresses it sounds like it will be on my favorite list until 2012 when the world ends, or the next outbreak
-Crystal 24, NJ
Crystal on Mar 10, 2009
82
I heard the body guard (Collins) is going to be played by Henry Rollins. Awesome choice.
Bob on Mar 15, 2009
83
David Carradine - Blind Japanese Survivor
Michelle Rodriguez - Downed Pilot Woman
Mila Jovovich - Pregnant Russian Soldier Survivor
Clive Owen - Redeker
Seth Macfarland - Phalanx Millionaire
Viggo Mortenson - Todd, from Yonkers and Hope
Saïd Taghmaoui - Saladin Kader, Palestinian
Edward James Olmos - General Raj Singh
That's what I can think of for now. Still wondering about someone to play the Otaku. Some of those seem odd but think about it 
I think Seth Macfarland would be hilarious as the Phalanx King, if you've ever seen him talk in person, he could pull off douschey business guy easily. Michelle Rodriguez has already played in Resident Evil and would be perfect for a toughgirl pilot in the swamps. Carradine as a blind zombie headsplicer would be priceless.
Drew N on Mar 15, 2009
84
I'm excited, but I don't know how a couple of hours can do it justice. This would have been an Epic series on HBO or Showtime, with 1-3 interviews per episode. But if a movie is all we get then that's fine.
N Fox on Mar 16, 2009
85
Michelle Rodriguez !! she's a crap actress i think this book needs excellent ”no names” to play the main characters as for rodrguez she just looks like a bulldog licking piss off a thistle!! peminantly!
reg on Mar 16, 2009
86
hbo series sounds awsome !!
reg on Mar 16, 2009
87
Once again Edward Burns for the soldier at Yonkers and Hope. Henry Rollins sounds sick though, good choice. It would bit tight if they made a game off this, like one where you have to actually gather food, build bases, and raid supplies to stay alive. Have an open style environment like GTA, but make sure you stick with the walking zombies. That would be sooooooo tight.
OrganizeBeforeTheyRise on Mar 16, 2009
88
hey judy the name of the asian guy in disturbia is Aaron Yoo and ur right i think hed be perfect for that
ZombieChick on Mar 16, 2009
89
i just finished listening to the audiobook off itunes and its great. it was so realistic, and a movie would be just awsome!!! it wouldnt be like other zombie movies where there is a group of people getting from one place to another flleeing zombies.
don on Apr 16, 2009
90
I'm keepin' my fingers crossed on this one. I read the book shortly after it came out and was absolutely blown away by it! It came out of left field for me and I was so excited to be reading something that had a different outlook on how to approach a zombie novel. Kudos to Max Brooks!! I'm also in agreeance with several people that this might have been better as an HBO or Showtime series, but I'll take a movie. It sounds like the script could be excellent. Let's all just hope that they don't monkey things up too bad.
Joel on Apr 17, 2009
91
What no one is thinking of though is what to do about the eventual sequels and the billions it will make in the box office!
Scorpio on Apr 19, 2009
92
I think the vast majority of the cast should be relative unknowns; these are supposed to be ordinary people. Really, the only place we should see anyone who could've been on the cover of an entertainment gossip magazine should be in the Hollywood siege bit - the story about the bodyguard. You all remember, the bit where at the end the man mentions exchanging glances with Paris Hilton's (s'cuse me, some heiress') dog before leaving the scene and imagining the following conversation -
"What about your master?"
"What about yours?"
"Fuck 'em."
WerewolfWithin on Apr 22, 2009
93
WerewolfwWithin, what about the zombie killing pacifist that is Moby? He HAS to be in it, deffinately one of the best ironic humour twists.
WorldWarD on Apr 22, 2009
94
What about the Battle of Yonkers!?! i want to see that played out
Lemons on May 3, 2009
95
#17
zombies don't suck, vampires do.
fatboy8938 on May 6, 2009
96
Best Zombie book that i have read and i will tell you what if they are making a movie out of it they would have to try really hard to screw this up. the epic battles, and intimate details of the individuals who survived this war is going to make for one flipping awesome movie.
Rawb on May 18, 2009
97
i bought this book along with my second copy of 'the zombie survival guide' and began reading it head-on. loved it. absolutly one of my favorite books. if it does come out, which it should, i'll be first in line to watch it and to buy it. i've always been a zombie fan. big time. espically books (and you don't see much of them). but i can't wait to see how they put it all together. the battles, the survival, all of it. definatly 'Yonkers'. but Brad Pit? ew. no offense to anyone, but i don't like him. good luck filming guys. make it good. please. oh, and vampires don't suck. look at edward cullen!
Whats-her-face. on May 25, 2009
98
oh yeah, and either 'Yonkers' or the one with (i think his name was ted?) the zombie breaking into the womans home and her husband fighting it and the wife ripping the things head off then the husband getting the dog (YEAH!). were my favorite stories. i remember me screaming "IT'S GONNA KILL TED!" ya, those were pretty awesome.
Whats-her-face. on May 25, 2009
99
ya, i really need to stop commenting but i think the chapter about the dogs was my favorite and least favorite one. i am a BIG animal lover so it was very hard not for me to cry. i cried when read "where the red fern grows" in the 5th grade. also, max brooks said he would be writing a 'survival guide' on what to do with your pets when theres an outbreak. when will that happen? i need it…does anyone know? seriously?
Whats-her-face. on May 25, 2009
100
PUT GEORGE ROMERO AS DIRECTOR! well…at least let him help. he might be a good choice, considering that there are a lot of people waiting for this. and cheering it on.
Whats-her-face. on May 25, 2009
101
I truelly loved the book and hope the movie is just as good. I think flashbacks and a narrator type of movie would be perfect. Zombies!
Xero on Jun 7, 2009
102
The book is amazing but they say this happened for real i kind of believe thats a load of BS. Who else agrees?
Kelsisco on Jun 16, 2009
103
The only problem I have is that it interviews different people.
But that is a minor nitpick. I hope that some of the people from the book as well as new ones are in there.
I was so happy when my manager at work told me about this today.
*SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEE*
A non-mouse on Jun 18, 2009
104
Can someone please tell me where I can find the script or to make things easier email it to me? I've been looking tirelessly through torrents and etcetera, but have had no luck. Cheers
Script on Jun 19, 2009
105
i think there still writing it
reggythebutcher on Jun 19, 2009
106
Reggy surely you're kidding. This whole article is a review of the leaked script which, seemingly, everyone here has read and should therefore have a copy of. Please, please, please, someone hook it up.
Script on Jun 19, 2009
107
I think most of us just read the book, but if there is a script out there I'de love to read it too.
1-shot on Jun 20, 2009