Didn't Die

Watched at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.

I appreciate when filmmakers are able to create a different approach to the zombie genre without feeding the same cliches and approaches. Meera Menon does offer some interesting concepts about having a podcast group during a zombie apocalypse. Despite some good camerawork and decent horror effects with the make-up and production, Menon seems to struggle on how to properly balance out the horror and dramatic tones together.

Throughout, Menon tries to implement themes of grief and horror together. I do understand the intentions but the issue is that the characters focused on aren't interesting and you don't get a sense of fear or connection with them. Aside from poor dialogue and troubled pacing, the movie really drags along with an aimless point that feels like it lacks a purpose. Most of the performances were okay but it ranged with some not so good performances at times.

The sound designs is okay as well with the score. It basically reminds me of "Pontypool" but unlike it being unique and creative, Menon seems to not understand how horror really works.

In many ways, this movie could have worked, if only they had a better writing and direction.