In the thrilling horror film 'We Bury the Dead', directed by Zak Hilditch, Tasmania becomes the epicenter of a zombie apocalypse. The story unfolds with a twist that could be mistaken for real news. The United States Navy's accidental deployment of an experimental weapon near Tasmania results in the tragic loss of nearly everyone on the Apple Isle. This incident sparks outrage from the Australian Prime Minister, who questions the reliability of their ally. Hilditch's film captures the essence of our turbulent times, blending elements of disaster and horror. The story delves into the profound impact of loss, with Hilditch sharing, 'We Bury the Dead began as an exploration of grief, inspired by the passing of my mother and the subsequent trauma. I never anticipated transforming it into a zombie-infused narrative, but the idea of unresolved emotions persisted.'
The film stars Daisy Ridley, a former Star Wars actress, as Ava, a physiotherapist who travels to the heavily militarized Devonport. Her mission is to assist in the cleanup efforts, but her true intention is to venture into the devastated southern regions of the island in search of her husband, who was visiting on business. Ava's determination to uncover the truth drives her to confront the horrors that lie ahead. Hilditch praises Ridley's exceptional performance, highlighting her ability to convey a range of emotions, from the trembling vulnerability of grief to the adrenaline-fueled determination and the jarring shock of unimaginable horror.
Ava's journey is accompanied by Clay, a character portrayed by Brenton Thwaites, a motorbike-riding bogan who joins her reluctantly. Clay's role is to assist in the cleanup, but he struggles with the grim task of handling possibly marauding bodies. His Australian humor, including the use of hilarious curses, adds a unique flavor to the film. Hilditch notes the positive response from American audiences, who found Clay's character endearing. The film's international premiere at SXSW, following its debut at the Adelaide Film Festival, further showcases its global appeal.
As Ava and Clay's escape attempt unfolds, they encounter obstacles, including the intervention of Riley, a character played by Mark Coles Smith, a star from Mystery Road: Origin and Beast of War. Hilditch describes Smith's performance as exceptional, marking a significant departure from his previous roles. The director spent four days with Smith and Ridley in a haunted house, crafting the film's intense and suspenseful sequences. Inspired by Ira Levin's play, Veronica's Room, Hilditch created a dynamic shift in the narrative, moving from the chaotic zombie scenes to a Hitchcockian thriller.
Hilditch's career is characterized by his ability to balance the apocalyptic and the intimate. He expresses a deep appreciation for ordinary individuals facing extraordinary circumstances. 'We Bury the Dead' delves into personal and cathartic themes, building upon the success of his previous work, 'These Final Hours' (2013). The latter film, starring Nathan Phillips and Jessica De Gouw, portrayed James, a bricklayer who abandons his girlfriend, Zoe, in favor of partying, as an asteroid strike leaves Australians with a limited time to live. Hilditch's inspiration for 'We Bury the Dead' also draws from 'Paper Moon', '28 Days Later', and Quentin Tarantino's works, creating a unique blend of humor, horror, and emotional depth.
'We Bury the Dead' is an Australian film that captivates audiences with its wit, dark humor, and profound exploration of grief. After a successful festival run, Hilditch is eager to bring the film to cinemas across the country, emphasizing the joy of sharing stories on the big screen and witnessing audience reactions.
