Shaun of the Dead’s Most Iconic Scene Was Nearly Cut

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Shaun of the Dead's Most Iconic Scene Was Nearly Cut

As a film critic with a penchant for British humor and a soft spot for cult classics that stand the test of time, I must say Edgar Wright’s “Shaun of the Dead” is an absolute gem. Its unique blend of horror and comedy, punctuated by timeless jokes like the iconic Cornetto ice cream scene, has earned it a special place in my heart and countless viewings over the years.

One of the most timeless elements of Edgar Wright‘s beloved horror comedy Shaun of the Dead is its repetitious jokes. However, an iconic comedic moment was nearly cut from the final movie. In a scene early in the film, there is a tracking one-shot of Shaun (Simon Pegg) going about his daily life as he walks to the local corner shop to buy a Cornetto ice cream. The scene is then revisited later during the outbreak as a nonchalant Shaun, unaware of the impending zombie hordes, makes the same walk as London descends into chaos. The joke helps establish the tone for the movie, but Wright was told the moment would likely be cut during the editing process.

20 years ago, I (Edgar Wright) sat down for an interview on Letterboxd to celebrate Shaun of the Dead’s anniversary, which made me feel a bit aged, if I may say so myself. As I delved into user reviews, I shared an interesting tidbit about the film’s production: my cinematographer, David Dunlap, suggested cutting a particular scene as it lacked narrative significance. But being the creative souls we are, Simon Pegg and I refused to let go of that scene, instead jam-packing it with physical jokes and intricate details to ensure its indispensable role in the movie. As I explained during the interview, this decision was rooted in our belief that every detail, no matter how seemingly insignificant, contributes to the overall story and experience of Shaun of the Dead.

In a different take, here’s how the information could be presented: “During the filming of the scene showing him walking to and from the store, Simon and I visited the location for a video rehearsal. This was because David Dunlap, our director of photography, had mentioned that this particular scene would be deleted. Initially, I was taken aback by his statement, asking, ‘But why?’ He explained, ‘This is just extra footwork. We won’t use the footage of him walking to the store and back.’ I admit, I felt quite upset at his suggestion. However, instead of giving up, I decided we should amplify any comedic elements in that scene. In essence, we rehearsed it to create a shot so captivating that leaving it out would be impossible.”

Edgar Wright showed great determination to preserve a crucial scene in “Shaun of the Dead,” even facing some resistance. Yet, he wasn’t the only one committed to making this film exceptional. In addition to Wright, Simon Pegg’s co-star, Nick Frost, went the extra mile to ensure his character was portrayed authentically.

Nick Frost Went Bizarrely Method For His Role in Shaun of the Dead

Shaun of the Dead's Most Iconic Scene Was Nearly CutShaun of the Dead's Most Iconic Scene Was Nearly CutShaun of the Dead's Most Iconic Scene Was Nearly CutShaun of the Dead's Most Iconic Scene Was Nearly Cut

In the midst of a zombie outbreak in London, Shaun finds solace with his longtime friend, Ed (portrayed by Nick Frost). While Shaun grapples with a mid-life crisis, Ed clings to his immature ways, refusing to mature. To bring this character to life, Frost incorporated numerous juvenile and messy mannerisms. In an intriguing behind-the-scenes tale, director Edgar Wright shared that Frost took method acting to a new level by shaving his private areas to make them unbearably itchy during filming, mirroring one of Ed’s quirks – the compulsion to scratch himself constantly. He elaborated:

1. “I didn’t make Nick perform that action; instead, he chose to do it on his own accord, which is accurate. Additionally, you might have noticed that he has a chunk of hair missing. This style was influenced by the show ‘Jackass’.”

In honor of its 20th anniversary, “Shaun of the Dead” is making a comeback in selected cinemas. Director Edgar Wright hints that the re-mastered edition includes subtle enhancements and witty gags for keen-eyed spectators.

Shaun of the Dead
returns to theaters from August 30, 2024.

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2024-08-28 22:32