Of any of the countless films to have ever been made about zombies, the horror-drama is relatively rare. Earnest substance finds its way into zombie flicks every now and again, but something that's plainly dramatic is more uncommon. With this said, the substance of Sabu's 'Miss Zombie' couldn't possibly be more clear-cut as themes immediately present of the struggles of vulnerable communities, enduring exploitation, abuse, persecution, prejudice, class inequality, and dehumanization, and how easily society overlooks the humanity of anyone deemed Lesser Than. The only difference is that the domestic help here is not part of a real-life marginalized demographic, but an undead person, and the picture is no more than two short steps away from being a more ordinary, recognizable indie drama.
Yet neither the familiar territory nor the particulars of this iteration serve to specifically diminish what the filmmaker is doing here. We might say reasonably enough that the feature isn't so much outwardly striking given the tried and true narrative and themes, but at the same time, Sabu does interesting, meaningful things with the concept beyond merely substituting a zombie for some other minority. The lives of the Teramoto family are irrevocably changed owing to their servant's presence, and there's a compelling, absorbing, satisfying story in which those prominent bigger ideas just happen to be foremost. Even while mostly maintaining a very low-key tone the narrative ably keeps our attention, with equally strong scene writing along the way, and smart direction maintains a soft buzz of vibrancy about it all as we eagerly wait to see just where the title will take us. In turn, where the proceedings do distinctly grow more severe, the incidence is all the more grabbing.
Actually, as the length draws on this becomes more quietly fascinating, and all the richer. And outside off the writing and direction it's firmly well made all around, including keen cinematography and editing, and robust sound design. The music is employed fairly sparingly but is surprisingly dynamic and lends to the mood of any given moment, with some instances being altogether brilliant. Even through the overall subdued tenor the cast give capable, nuanced performances, certainly including Togashi Makoto, increasingly Tezuka Toru, and Komatsu Ayaka in the lead role. Where effects or special makeup are used they look great. With the black and white presentation making 'Miss Zombie' all the more stark and intense, the result is unexpectedly gnawing and impactful. It begins so unexceptionally, if nonetheless commendably, and in due course proves to be ever darker, and outright haunting as the scenario unfolds and we learn more about our protagonist.
I wouldn't go so far as to suggest the movie is a must-see, but this unquestionably gathers strength over its eighty-five minutes, and is much more potent than it seems at the outset. This is a piece of no especial renown or visibility, and that's a shame in my opinion. Despite its low-budget and modest production it's sharply made, and there's much more going on here than first meets the eye. It's nice to be greeted with a pleasant surprise like this every now and again, and for my part I'm happy to give 'Miss Zombie' my high and hearty recommendation.
