First film of 2026….and it’s fine.
Playing a bit like an acoustic cover of a 28 Days Later-style zombie-sociology thriller—all stripped-down emotion and raw nerves instead of adrenaline-pumping chase sequences—it’s hard for me to put down “We Bury the Dead” for attempting a minimalist approach to the undead and what they represent but I still can’t overlook that even minimalism has to earn itself by being, well, minimally interesting instead of just minimally lit. Its restraint feels pointed but it trips over it often.
Watching "We Bury the Dead" felt like experiencing a fresh perspective on the typical zombie genre. Unlike the usual adrenaline-fueled chase scenes, this film leans heavily on minimalism, focusing on raw emotions and the psychological aspects of the undead. This approach can make the movie feel more like an acoustic cover of a high-energy track — familiar yet stripped down. The minimalist style means the story unfolds slowly, relying on atmosphere and subtle performances rather than action-packed sequences. I found this intriguing because it challenges the conventional zombie narrative, inviting viewers to reflect on what the undead might symbolize beyond just horror or survival. It made me think about societal fears, human resilience, and how minimalistic storytelling can evoke a different kind of tension. However, minimalism demands its own kind of engagement — the movie needs to maintain interest through mood and meaning, not just visuals. At times, I felt like the film struggled with this balance, as its low-light scenes and restrained pacing occasionally made it harder to stay fully immersed. Still, the attempt to offer something different within the zombie genre is refreshing. If you’re someone who appreciates films that experiment with form and atmosphere, "We Bury the Dead" might resonate with you, even if it’s not perfect. It serves as a reminder that minimalism in horror can be a powerful tool when it’s effectively executed, tapping into emotional and intellectual responses rather than just jump scares. This movie is worth watching for those interested in seeing how the undead narrative can be reimagined in a more thoughtful, stripped-down way.