Film Review – Johnny Z (2023)
Relentless on the eyes and maniacal in its approach with another take on the zombie genre, Johnny Z is eager to entertain through rapid action and veteran international stuntman Felix Cortes as Jonray, showcasing leading man martial arts skills.
Ambitious and inspired crowdfunded endeavour does not always hit the highs aimed for, although stylized splatter blended with martial arts mayhem certainly is worthy of a viewing with uncritical friends and several beers.
Set during a bleak time, a dystopian earth ravaged by destruction and encompassing zombie epidemic.
On the run after escaping a medical prison, half-alive half-reanimated human, pumped up medial experiment Johnny (Michael Merchant) retains a fierce frame of mind to find a cure and take revenge on the scientist responsible.
Sword wielding Johnny teams up with enraged Jonray alongside his bumbling brother Crisanto (Jason Delgado) on a road trip of sorts searching for the potential antidote with a series of executioner type troopers on their tail and a forever surge of hungry zombies ready to pounce.
Rehearsed, slightly grinning extras running about as the walking dead at least seem to be having fun groaning.
More of a substantial role for athletic actor, rising star Abra Burkett (No Hard Feelings) would have heightened proceedings. Teaming her in the battle alongside gruff Cortes, would have been a masterstroke. Unassuming Ellie Church as Lars, makes a minor impression although sadly inferior to the plot.
While I applaud director Jonathan Straiton, his ultra indie movie is obviously lovingly put together, contains a few unique ideas across certain aspects and lightening in pace, unfortunately Johnny Z, remains a struggle to stay focussed on what is exactly going on.
Editing is a mashup, the score constantly annoying. Both a mark of individual talent still learning their craft.
If it wasn’t for the boost of Cortes (solidifying an action hero strongarm presence) intensity would lack flash or any real substance to keep one entirely interested. Teaming he and aforementioned Burkett, would have been a masterstroke.
★ 1/2
Action, Horror | USA, 2023 | 15 | Digital HD | Reel 2 Reel Films | Dir.Jonathan Straiton | Michael Merchant, Felix Cortes, Jason Delgado, Ellie Church, Wayne W. Johnson, Abra Burkett
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