Movie Overview
- Title: We Bury the Dead
- Release Date: January 2, 2026 (USA), February 5, 2026 (Australia/New Zealand)
- Runtime: 95 minutes
- Genres: Horror / Thriller / Drama (Zombie)
- Languages: English
- Country: Australia, United States
- Budget: Not officially disclosed
- Production Company: Screen Australia, Gramercy Park Media, Screenwest, The Penguin Empire, Giant Leap Media, Peachtree Media Partners
- Written By: Zak Hilditch
- Directed By: Zak Hilditch
- Producer(s): Kelvin Munro, Grant Sputore, Ross Dinerstein, Joshua Harris, Mark Fasano
Cast
| Character | Actor |
|---|---|
| Ava Newman | Daisy Ridley |
| Clay | Brenton Thwaites |
| Riley | Mark Coles Smith |
| Mitch | Matt Whelan |
| Lieutenant Wilkie | Kym Jackson |
Plot
We Bury the Dead (2025) is set after a catastrophic military experiment devastates Tasmania, killing thousands of people. Ava Newman, a desperate woman searching for her missing husband, joins a body retrieval unit tasked with burying the dead.
However, her mission takes a terrifying turn when some of the corpses begin to show signs of life. As Ava continues her journey through quarantined zones, she faces not only the threat of the undead but also the emotional burden of loss and uncertainty.
The story blends survival horror with a deeply personal narrative, focusing on grief, hope, and the struggle to move forward in a broken world.
Review
Acting Performance:
Daisy Ridley delivers a powerful and emotionally driven performance, carrying the film with intensity and vulnerability. Supporting actors provide solid performances that enhance the story.
Direction & Cinematography:
Zak Hilditch brings a visually striking approach, using the desolate landscapes of Tasmania to create a haunting and immersive atmosphere.
Story & Screenplay:
The film offers a unique mix of zombie horror and emotional drama. While it introduces fresh ideas, it occasionally falls back on familiar genre tropes.
Music & Overall Impact:
The background score adds to the eerie tone, creating tension during quieter moments and enhancing the film’s emotional depth.
Pros:
- Strong lead performance by Daisy Ridley
- Unique emotional angle within a zombie story
- Atmospheric visuals and setting
Cons:
- Uneven pacing in parts
- Some familiar horror clichés
- Not as action-heavy as typical zombie films
Final Verdict:
We Bury the Dead stands out as a thoughtful and emotional take on the zombie genre. While not perfect, it offers a fresh perspective that combines horror with human drama.
OTT Release Details
- Platform: Not officially confirmed
- OTT Release Date: Not confirmed
The film initially had a limited theatrical release. It is expected to arrive on digital rental and streaming platforms in 2026, though no official confirmation has been made yet.
Closing Note (Recommendation)
We Bury the Dead (2025) is best suited for viewers who enjoy slow-burn horror with emotional storytelling rather than fast-paced action.
Recommendation:
Recommended for fans of character-driven zombie films and those looking for a deeper, more reflective horror experience.
FAQ
1. Is We Bury the Dead (2025) a typical zombie movie?
No, it focuses more on emotional storytelling and grief rather than constant action.
2. What is the movie about?
It follows a woman searching for her husband after a disaster that causes the dead to come back to life.
3. Is We Bury the Dead worth watching?
Yes, especially if you enjoy slow-paced, atmospheric horror with strong performances.
4. Where can I watch We Bury the Dead?
It was released in theaters and is expected to arrive on digital platforms, though no official streaming platform has been announced yet.
5. Is the movie suitable for all audiences?
Due to intense themes and horror elements, it is more suitable for mature viewers.