This was really great in the first half and then the story kind of got lost along the way. It's something with the sequencing of the story and some unnecessary drama. Some characters need not have perished or perished so early in the movie. Some details were only revealed in the later part of the movie and it kind of lost it's relevance. Some details weren't quite clear, as is typical of Asian horror movies.
I like the demonic possession meets zombies concept. I've never seen another movie with such concept that really resonated with me, so I'm assuming this maybe the first of its kind. I think it's brilliant and creative. I'm an avid fan of Asian horror cinema and I've watched a whole lot of them. Where there usually is bad acting and a cast that just looks "pretty", this one has good acting and a cast with looks that have CHARACTER.
I'm not saying they're not good looking, though! I'm just saying they don't look generic and dolled up. You can distinguish one character from the other without their looks getting in the way. I think this is perhaps what I like most about the movie.
They got the ominous feeling of being uncertain and helpless, down pat. That scene where the teacher gets face to face with an infected student and when "ground zero" got in Kechik's face. That was terrifying! Plus that guard approaching that bloody student who had his back turned, seriously, there are only two adults in the hostel and there an unscheduled blackout then you see that kid who isn't in distress but is covered in blood. What are the odds that they've become a demonic being with bloodlust? The creepy is strong with this one.
What I didn't like is the sequencing and the coherence. I think it could've been better. Just in case a sequel is in the works, might be great to explain the stuff on this movie that were left floating.
Lastly, why wear a beanie/bonnet in a tropical country?
