On a hot summer day in Oslo, the dead mysteriously awaken, and three families are thrown into chaos when their deceased loved ones come back to them. Who are they, and what do they want?
Handling the Undead (2024) Movie Review
Handling the Undead, directed by Thea Hvistendahl, is a 2024 horror-drama film based on the acclaimed novel by John Ajvide Lindqvist. This Swedish film explores the eerie phenomenon of the undead returning to life, weaving together horror, emotional depth, and societal commentary. Here’s an in-depth review of the film.
Plot Summary
The story is set in Stockholm during a sweltering summer. A strange electrical phenomenon causes all recently deceased individuals to come back to life. Unlike typical zombie narratives, these undead are not malevolent but confused and disoriented. The film follows several interwoven stories, focusing on how different families and individuals cope with the return of their deceased loved ones. The central characters include David (played by Krister Henriksson), who grapples with the return of his wife; Mahler (Johan Rheborg), who finds his grandson alive again; and Flora (Vera Vitali), a medium trying to understand the phenomenon.
Direction and Cinematography
Thea Hvistendahl brings a nuanced touch to the horror genre, focusing more on the emotional and psychological aspects rather than gore. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the characters’ emotional journeys. Cinematographer Niels Thastum captures the haunting beauty of Stockholm, using natural light and shadow to enhance the eerie atmosphere. The visual storytelling is powerful, with lingering shots that emphasize the unsettling nature of the undead phenomenon.
Performance
The cast delivers strong performances that anchor the film’s emotional core. Krister Henriksson shines as David, portraying a man torn between joy and horror at his wife’s return. Johan Rheborg’s portrayal of Mahler adds depth to the narrative, as he conveys a grandfather’s desperate love and confusion. Vera Vitali brings a compelling intensity to Flora, whose spiritual connection to the undead adds a unique dimension to the story. The ensemble cast successfully conveys the complex emotions and moral dilemmas faced by their characters.
Themes and Execution
Handling the Undead delves into themes of loss, grief, and the ethical implications of life and death. It poses thought-provoking questions about what it means to truly live and die, and how society deals with the concept of resurrection. The film avoids typical horror clichés, instead opting for a more introspective approach that explores the human condition. The screenplay, co-written by Lindqvist and Hvistendahl, stays true to the novel’s essence while adapting it for the screen in a compelling manner.
Music and Sound Design
The score by Johan Söderqvist is haunting and melancholic, perfectly complementing the film’s tone. The music underscores key emotional moments without overpowering the narrative. The sound design is meticulous, with subtle auditory cues that enhance the tension and atmosphere. From the buzzing of electrical disturbances to the quiet moments of introspection, the soundscape plays a crucial role in immersing the audience in the story.
Streaming Options
For viewers in the United States, Handling the Undead is available on several streaming platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- iTunes/Apple TV: Offers both rental and purchase options.
- Google Play Movies & TV: You can rent or buy the film.
- Vudu: Provides rental and purchase choices.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rent or purchase.
These platforms offer flexible viewing options for those eager to experience this unique horror-drama.
Conclusion
Handling the Undead is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that stands out in the horror genre. By focusing on the human aspect of the undead phenomenon, it offers a fresh take that is both unsettling and deeply moving. With strong performances, atmospheric cinematography, and a haunting score, it is a must-watch for fans of intelligent and emotionally charged horror.
For those interested in exploring the themes of life, death, and everything in between, this film is highly recommended. Check out the streaming options mentioned above to watch Handling the Undead and prepare for a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
