Handling the Undead: In the realm of unconventional horror, io9’s coverage of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival previously delved into “In a Violent Nature,” an atypical slasher movie. The festival’s commitment to unique narratives persists with “Handling the Undead,” a remarkably distinctive zombie film that reaffirms the genre’s capacity for innovation.
Much of the film’s uniqueness stems from the source material, a novel by John Ajvide Lindqvist, Sweden’s renowned horror author celebrated for the global success of “Let the Right One In” and its subsequent adaptations. Thea Hvistendahl, a first-time feature director who co-wrote the script with Lindqvist, transports the narrative from Sweden to Norway. While Scandinavian austerity sets the backdrop, the story’s universal themes make it relatable anywhere. The narrative revolves around three distinct tales of individuals grappling with freshly inflicted grief: an elderly woman mourning her wife, a grandfather and mother coping with the loss of the latter’s son, and a vibrant mother—introduced to us before her demise—whose fatal car accident leaves behind a grieving husband and children.
Given the somber subject matter, a palpable sense of sorrow and gloom saturates every frame. “Handling the Undead” unfolds at a deliberate pace in its initial third, mirroring the lingering grief. Then, a transformative event occurs—the power outage. When it returns, what seemed like a mere glitch reveals a supernatural twist: the recently deceased awaken. This unexpected turn significantly complicates the grieving process for the three families, each grappling with the situation in distinct ways.
For the elderly woman, the joy of reuniting with her sweetheart, casually strolling back home in the elegant clothes intended for burial, leads to tender moments reminiscent of a romantic take on “Pet Sematary” or “The Monkey’s Paw.” The frost enveloping the family of the young child, played by Renate Reinsve, known for her role in 2021’s “The Worst Person in the World,” swiftly melts as Grandpa and Mom unite to care for the boy. Meanwhile, the family of the car-crash victim, reanimated in a hospital morgue, grapples with conflicting emotions as she undergoes inexplicable recovery amid perplexing medical tests.
FAQ About Handling the Undead
Handling the undead movie release date
Premiering at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, the film features Renate Reinsve, Bjørn Sundquist, and others. Set for release in Norway on February 9, 2024, it promises a compelling narrative.
Handling the undead movie cast
The cast of “Handling the Undead” boasts talented actors, including Renate Reinsve, Anders Danielsen Lie, Jonas Karlsson, Ruth Vega Fernandez, and others. With a diverse ensemble, the movie promises a compelling exploration of its supernatural theme, featuring a range of performances from seasoned actors to deliver an engaging cinematic experience.
Where can I watch Undead or Alive?
Undead or Alive” is available for streaming on Prime Video. The film offers viewers an entertaining experience, blending elements of the undead with a comedic twist. Enjoy the movie on the Prime Video platform.
Also Read: Sometimes I Think About Dying”: A Cinematic Puzzle Unfolds