Cult takes a moment to view & muse upon a refreshingly different type of ZOMBIE flick…
The Returned (2013)
I'm always intrigued to see the results of a co production, be it writing talents from Europe (or across the 'puddle' if you prefer) conspiring with producers and directors from other countries or vice versa. To see this harkens me back to the bygone era of cult cinema from the early 80's when films were produced with the actors within often times speaking their own dialect, messy and confusing for sure, but it certainly made for an interesting viewing experience. I'm referring of course to films from the likes of Lucio Fulci, Joe d'Amato andJorge Grau (director of the often underrated Living Dead at the Manchester Morgue) among others.
The Returned is a co-production that did well on the festival circuit and it certainly peeked this Scribbler’s interest in the very few reviews I browsed through. I try not to read reviews very often, there are too many haters out there (of that there is no doubt!) that like nothing more than to ruin a film's reputation by giving a review slanted with opinions or bias based on their own personal prejudices. Prospective audiences can, and often do, dwell on buzz words, topics and current trends leaving many a worthy feature to go unseen. Their fate decided by opinion, not talent, a truly sad state of affairs indeed! I strive to stay neutral, at times it is difficult admittedly, in order to give an honest review for both the site and the audience’s sake and of course the media under scrutiny. Onwards…
With a very effective opening sequence TR (that’s right I’m shortening this one too!) could initially be confused for your typical undead feature, alas as it progresses it proves to be very different than your average run-of-the-mill, rip-your-guts-out typical zombie gorefest (still there? Give me a moment here folks).
With a very effective opening sequence TR (that’s right I’m shortening this one too!) could initially be confused for your typical undead feature, alas as it progresses it proves to be very different than your average run-of-the-mill, rip-your-guts-out typical zombie gorefest (still there? Give me a moment here folks).
The film's initial scene has a gritty, muted color, flashback type feel (a little reminiscent of footage from The TCM remake, a franchise my scribbling partner, Feind, recently posted a brilliant piece on *scroll down for that) in which the aftermath of an isolated attack on a small family unit is depicted. You may be left confused as the next scene starts, as I was, for the opening scenario is forgotten and replaced with a sterile hospital environment, a quick one hundred and eighty degree reversal from the activities previously witnessed. It'll all “fall into place” later, I promise.
The film's two main characters, Kate and Alex, are introduced and the audience is soon to discover that they have a secret. Kate is a competent care giver who enjoys her job but not the hassles that have recently become associated with it. The country is plagued by “anti-Returned” groups who thrive on pickets, some of the more extreme factions even resort to terrorist attacks. In the wing that Kate works, are a number of the “Returned”, a state defined by a person who is under medication to counteract the effects resulting from a virus contracted from a bite (or by other bodily fluid contact) coming from a person of the undead persuasion.*Takes a breath. I feel like a medical professional after that explanation!
The film's two main characters, Kate and Alex, are introduced and the audience is soon to discover that they have a secret. Kate is a competent care giver who enjoys her job but not the hassles that have recently become associated with it. The country is plagued by “anti-Returned” groups who thrive on pickets, some of the more extreme factions even resort to terrorist attacks. In the wing that Kate works, are a number of the “Returned”, a state defined by a person who is under medication to counteract the effects resulting from a virus contracted from a bite (or by other bodily fluid contact) coming from a person of the undead persuasion.*Takes a breath. I feel like a medical professional after that explanation!
The Government has developed a serum to counteract the zombification effect (the condition is... not curable but treatable) but like everything else it's expensive and supplies are running low.
Without giving the story away, which would be easy to do and something I would take insane pleasure in if I didn't care too much for this flick, conditions for both of our main characters go from bad to worse when they share their secret with their closest friends. One of whom is a writer with hopes to release her recently finished project supported by a nationwide tour. She gives an interesting synopsis for her book, which looking back perhaps gives hints at her idiosyncrasies.
This movie thrives more on drama and what if scenarios than gore but still delivers in all areas. The writing is commendable, with scenarios you could actually envision if such a situation were to ever come to fruition. *Incidently the CDC actually has a plan of attack in the case of a Zombie epidemic (or so I've heard!). The film portrays the Government (the same one we all know and love with apparently the same ideals) as being in total control. In fact they are far from it, employing shady methods and covert operations to keep the populace from a widespread state of panic. At times you wonder who the real terrorists are.
Without giving the story away, which would be easy to do and something I would take insane pleasure in if I didn't care too much for this flick, conditions for both of our main characters go from bad to worse when they share their secret with their closest friends. One of whom is a writer with hopes to release her recently finished project supported by a nationwide tour. She gives an interesting synopsis for her book, which looking back perhaps gives hints at her idiosyncrasies.
This movie thrives more on drama and what if scenarios than gore but still delivers in all areas. The writing is commendable, with scenarios you could actually envision if such a situation were to ever come to fruition. *Incidently the CDC actually has a plan of attack in the case of a Zombie epidemic (or so I've heard!). The film portrays the Government (the same one we all know and love with apparently the same ideals) as being in total control. In fact they are far from it, employing shady methods and covert operations to keep the populace from a widespread state of panic. At times you wonder who the real terrorists are.
Kate and Alex portray a couple in dire straits to a tee, with a cunning play on stereotypical roles being reversed. I do believe that Alex may have been a Boy Scout, you'll understand the reference and reason why upon viewing. The film is expertly crafted, brilliantly acted and filled with scenes that are both credible, memorable and well directed. I can only hope it is given the release it so deserves.
The soundtrack is another aspect worthy of note adding that certain something that most films lack giving the film true depth, feeling and atmosphere.
The only qualm I had with the film is the 'twist' (if it is in fact one, I may be looking too much into it?) found in the final scene. Without giving it away, again because I did enjoy this delicious slice of celluloid, many films have ended the way this one has, it leaves you feeling, perhaps hinting at the possibility, that there may be a... sequel? If there is, and it's only half as good as this... count me in!
The soundtrack is another aspect worthy of note adding that certain something that most films lack giving the film true depth, feeling and atmosphere.
The only qualm I had with the film is the 'twist' (if it is in fact one, I may be looking too much into it?) found in the final scene. Without giving it away, again because I did enjoy this delicious slice of celluloid, many films have ended the way this one has, it leaves you feeling, perhaps hinting at the possibility, that there may be a... sequel? If there is, and it's only half as good as this... count me in!
**The full 4-song original soundtrack by Mogwai
The Returned stands out in the zombie genre so I deem it…
THE Shit!!!
THE Shit!!!
**And looky here! Look what Feind found! The full movie for you! Enjoy!
So what do you think of The Returned Scribbler Fans? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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