The Overlook: Cooties

(imdb.com)

Ever watch a movie and think, why? Why does this film even exist? The fact of the matter is, not every movie is necessary. Without a message to drive a story home, many of these films are panned by audiences and critics alike. But if done well, even the most unnecessary film can be worth watching. Whether filled with well-timed scares or even cheap comedy, small indie films can make a big impact by giving audiences something to talk about.  2014's Cooties is one of those films.

While not always best or most purposeful, Cooties is pretty fantastic. Filled with some truly low-brow comedy and an ensemble of strong actors with aggressive character choices, Cooties is the type of movie that'll inspire no one, but entertain most. Following a group of teachers who must band together against some raging zombie students, Cooties is as exactly as ridiculous as its premise sounds. There's schlocky humor, mediocre scares and some blatantly bad storytelling, but for all of its issues, Cooties is undeniably fun. 

Cooties stars Elijah Wood (The Lord of the Rings) as the newly hired substitute teacher and writer, Clint, Rainn Wilson (The Office) plays a gym teacher, Alison Pill (Milk) plays a former childhood lover and fellow teacher, and Jack McBrayer (30 Rock),  Nasim Pedrad (Scream Queens) and Leigh Wannell (Insidious Chapter II) all play fellow teachers, as well. Ian Brennan (Glee) plays the school's edgy vice principal. While each role is only given so much time to shine, all are fantastic.

At times, the movie becomes too on-the-nose, but its less of a problem and more a stylistic choice. From a hardline racist student aptly named Patriot, to a perfectly timed joke suggesting Wood's character is a hobbit, this movie is definitely aware of its comedic ploys. Very much in the vein of campy films before it, Cooties isn't so concerned with scaring its audience, but is more so interested in providing fun, if not sometimes, cheap entertainment. It's got enough going for it to keep the energy, even if it gets a little weak at parts.

What makes this film so effective is the heart at the center of Cooties. Each and every actor connected to this film seems fully invested in all of the antics this movie has to offer. Whether making an off-color remark, receiving a "cooties shot" or passing out Ritalin to the crazed children, this cast never lets on that they're not in on the joke. Cooties is undeniably light-hearted fun. It's never amazing, but it's definitely a punch of upbeat entertainment.