We Bury the Dead is a new zombie film directed by Zak Hilditch and featuring Daisy Ridley in the lead role. Set in Tasmania, the story kicks off with a military disaster affecting thousands. Ridley plays Ava, a determined woman on a quest to find her husband amid chaos. However, the film doesn’t deliver on its potential.
The strength of a zombie movie often lies in its action and characters. Unfortunately, We Bury the Dead struggles with both. The action is minimal, while the character depth feels forced. Ava’s motivations become questionable as the plot unfolds, particularly when a significant secret about her character comes to light. This twist may alienate viewers rather than enhance their connection to her story.
Daisy Ridley is known for her strong performances, but Ava isn’t her best role. While Ridley brings a fierce determination to the character, the circumstances around her feel unrealistic. Why would she endanger herself to find her husband in a dangerous zone? This lack of believability hampers Ridley’s performance.
The zombies in this film exhibit a creepy clicking noise, reminiscent of the horror film Hereditary. While unsettling, this tactic feels gimmicky and does not compensate for the overall lack of tension in the film. Traditional zombie horror elements are absent, leading to a flat viewing experience that pales in comparison to classics like Night of the Living Dead.
Supporting characters, like Clay (Brenton Thwaites) and Riley (Mark Coles Smith), add some intrigue. Riley’s dilemma is particularly interesting, providing a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dull narrative. However, the film fails to explore these dynamics fully. Instead of building tension, We Bury the Dead settles into a predictable rhythm.
The last-minute twists feel tacked on, leaving viewers unsatisfied. By the end, Ava’s character arc doesn’t redeem the film but rather highlights its shortcomings. These recurring issues have led some audience members to express disappointment on social media, calling the film a missed opportunity. In an age where zombie stories thrive, this film’s failure to engage may be a critical blow to its success.
In comparison, films like 28 Days Later manage to balance character depth with thrilling action, setting a high bar for new entries in the genre. Recent statistics suggest that zombie-themed media continues to be a popular genre, with audiences craving fresh takes yet often finding regurgitated formulas. This is where We Bury the Dead falls short.
To summarize, while Daisy Ridley navigates her role with grace, the film lacks both the excitement and the emotional engagement it hopes to achieve. As the zombie genre continues to evolve, viewers are left hoping for something more original and compelling in the future.
Rating: 5/10
