The merging of the Nazi regime and the resurrected undead is not a new idea in the horror genre. In fact, not only have we seen it before in films like Dead Snow, but it’s also been in used in multiple installments of the very popular video game franchise, Call of Duty. Kieran Parker’s 2013 film entitled Outpost: Rise of the Spetsnaz is not only a fun entry into the ever-explored Nazi zombie sub-genre, but it is also a really great action horror film, in general.
Admittedly, I’ve never seen the first two films in the Outpost series, but this may have worked out to my advantage. Rise of the Spetsnaz actually serves as a prequel to its two predecessors, giving me a chance to catch the story from the true beginning. These direct-to-DVD films are low-budget productions, but that doesn’t mean they don’t deliver the goods that every horror fan fiends for.
The story itself is rather straightforward; It is World War II and the Nazi soldiers are battling the Russian special forces, also known as the spetsnaz. The Russians ambush the German troops, but are overtaken by the Nazi forces. This is not until after the Russians learn of Germany’s secret weapon, however. The secret weapon of course being some sort of zombie-like serum, which brings men back from death, turning them into blood thirsty super soldiers.
The gore in this film was entertaining throughout and horror fans couldn’t ask for anything better. Rise of the Spetsnaz delivers exactly what one would expect from a war-time horror film, with tons of great action scenes filled with bullet laden bodies, zombie-bitten throats, and intestines galore. While the zombified super soldiers are not the best looking ever, they are still quite effective.
Even with the great effects and plentiful action, the best part to me was the dialog. Writer Rae Brunton is a genius if I’ve ever seen one. The lines that he has the Russian soldier’s barking at their Nazi adversaries were some of the most demeaning and disrespectful stuff I’ve ever heard. Thus, making them the most entertaining I’ve ever heard.
If you are a fan of films like Frankenstein’s Army, Dog Soldiers, or even Quentin Tarantino’s Inglourious Basterds, this is a must-see for you. Released only a few days ago by XLrator’s “Macabre” division, Outpost: Rise of the Spetsnaz is now available on DVD and blu-ray.
I give this film 4 eye gouges out of 5.
