Directed & Edited By: Kiah Roache-Turner
Written By: Kiah Roache-Turner & Tristan Roache-Turner
Cinematography By: Tim Nagle
Cast: Jay Gallagher, Bianca Bradey, Leon Burchill, Luke McKenzie, Yurie Kovich, Keith Agius
Barry is a talented mechanic and family man whose life is torn apart on the eve of a zombie apocalypse. His sister, Brooke, is kidnapped by a sinister team of gas-mask wearing soldiers & experimented on by a psychotic doctor. While Brooke plans her escape Barry goes out on the road to find her & teams up with Benny, a fellow survivor - together they must arm themselves and prepare to battle their way through hordes of flesh-eating monsters in a harsh Australian bushland.
Though the film is derivative to a degree. It also takes the zombie genre film and gives it a breath of fresh air. There is nothing here you might have never seen, but it hasn't probably been presented with so much energy and fun. The film took 4 years to complete as they only worked weekends. Showing that this was a true Passion Project and that the cast and crew were dedicated to the proper vision for this film.
At times the films budget and effects seem to make the struggle a bit. Especially when involving gun shots that remind you of the syfy original movies, but the film is of much better quality and stock then those films.
The film is fast, funny and inventive using it's budget to it's advantage. Having it become more of a strength as it really intensifes the action and scenes. As we are more intimate with the characters and situations.
The film smartly begins with us not only introduced to our main characters, but also learning of their past. Really before the major action takes place. This is after setting the violent tone with an opening action sequence.
The heroes aren't extraordinary. They are likeable and relateable. More blue collar and trying to just survive and find safety. Luckily the film hair makes it feel like the audience is along for the ride. Though it has a bit of Mad Max vibe especially the character of Barry
The film also is an examination of a fraction of this outbreak. Rather then the cause and global effect.
Now of course zombies have become so popular a movie villain or ghoul. Certifying that a film has terror and obstacles yet no direct villain. Not having to worry about providing a evil plan or personality more just a challenge. This film doesn't necessarily try to set itself apart. As it is mainly survival. Though it does expose that the people who are in place to help are just as evil when any form of power is available. Plus no one is there to really reign you In or enforce your morals.
The zombies in this film aren't too different or special. They provide an element no other film I know of has ever used. It's at it's heart more of a survival tale that makes you care. Not as manipulation or because they are one of the last human survivors. You actually want to go along with these guys.
The film tries to be comical in some scene and heartbreakingly sad in others. either way, it never lets up to be boring.
It also has the survivors be more of the last usual suspects as our heroes. Especially having a woman be one of the most bad-ass survivors. Who at first looks seems to be a damsel in distress and then surprises with her resilience and fighting abilities. While not being hard on the eyes.
A surprising little gem of a film. That could easily be overlooked, but then you would be doing it and yourself a disservice.
Grade: B-
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