Film Review – We Bury the Dead (2025)

      We Bury the Dead, 2025.

      Written and Directed by Zak Hilditch.

      Featuring Daisy Ridley, Mark Coles Smith, Brenton Thwaites, Matt Whelan, Kym Jackson, Holly Hargreaves, Deanna Cooney, Elijah Williams, Chloe Hurst, and Salme Geransar.

      SYNOPSIS:

      Following a disastrous military incident, the deceased don't merely rise – they pursue. Ava is on a quest to find her missing husband, but what she discovers is far more frightening.

      Writer/director Zak Hilditch’s We Bury the Dead blends classic survival-horror zombie elements with the grueling journey through perilous areas in search of a loved one who may be alive, deceased, or resurrected, all while highlighting the tenderness in human bonds.

      After the US government unintentionally drops advanced electromagnetic bomb technology off the coast of Tasmania, which has resulted in the death of thousands and the resurrection of some of them, Daisy Ridley’s Ava joins a relief group to assist with burying the dead (as suggested by the title). The driving force behind her participation is her husband, who is there for a renewable energy conference. Dreamlike flashbacks of gazing and dancing suggest a deep connection between the couple.

      As she partners with other volunteers, Ava realizes she is not alone in her quest for loved ones and her desire to comprehend the situation. Directed by the military to report any zombie sightings for execution, Ava perceives traces of humanity in certain zombies, experiencing a moment of prolonged eye contact with one. This interaction presents a vacant stare from a bewildered zombie, symbolizing the profound struggle of attempting to connect with and understand the thoughts and feelings of loved ones, especially as the small group of characters develops. Though zombies are unable to communicate, the film utilizes this limitation to explore the poignant symbolism of seeking closure from past interactions where important conversations were left unaddressed.

      While some zombies pose a genuine threat, Zak Hilditch primarily focuses on a narrative about human connections and relationships, often grappling with uncertainties about the inner lives of those we care about; he largely succeeds. Some viewers may feel let down by the lack of focus on the political implications of the US unintentionally triggering the bombing, yet one could argue that the story benefits from concentrating on the human experience. Although the visual presentation may not be groundbreaking, the practical makeup effects on the zombies are commendable for a modestly budgeted film. A particular scene displays a zombie grinding its teeth, evoking feelings of unease as it seems poised to bite and chew on them.

      The film also smartly integrates various characters into Ava's narrative, recognizing that the initial few may resemble typical genre archetypes. There’s the carefree Clay (Brenton Thwaites), who shows no interest in the cause, and the somber soldier Riley (Mark Coles Smith), grieving his wife's loss. For undisclosed reasons, they agree to assist Ava in reaching the site where her husband was last seen, a forbidden area, allowing the audience to learn more about their characters and diminish the generic feel. Even when elements of tragedy lead to erratic behavior and violence, the story remains anchored in humanity and character rather than relying on cheap zombie-horror clichés.

      The film benefits from strong performances across the board, with Daisy Ridley delivering a quiet, tender, and empathetic portrayal that aligns with Zak Hilditch’s vision in We Bury the Dead. This film offers a more atmospheric, nuanced, and character-centered experience, providing a refreshing take for an oversaturated genre.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★

      Robert Kojder

      Originally published January 1, 2026. Updated January 2, 2026.