Another indie film and this one has certain aspects of independents: some bad acting, cheesy soundtrack, bad lighting, and even worse effects (note, for example, Simon's face which looks like mud pack instead of some serious injury). On the other hand, there are things that recommend this film: the pacing, anti-romantic exterior shots, and a theme that is--at least in my viewing--engaging.
The pacing is slow and, as noted by commentators above, perhaps too slow--at least from some. I believe that this pace is dead (if you will pardon this pun)-on given what the film is doing: exploring the life of those who for whatever reason survive the zombie apocalypse. Life has to be a drudgery and unbelievably slow. This fact is why the film is paced the way it is. Only in the last few moments does this pace change, but the pace that gets viewers to this end is really what it should be. So give this film its due and let the story happen for you.
I relished the anti-romantic shots of this film. You may wonder what is "anti-romantic." Romantic is the early 19th century view of the world where nature is our friend and nature is beautiful/awe-inspiring. Painters reflected this world view where human images were small in the "face" of this awesome nature. In this film, however, this idyllic them is undercut over and over because of the somber mood the film makers set from the beginning. So when Charlie is pictured going to the barn along the windy country road with a beautiful blue sky and lush greenery, the mood is NOT awe-inspiring but terrifying because we know "all is NOT right with this world." I enjoyed the play with images and the undercutting of the typical expectation.
Lastly the theme is announced a couple of time with the word "Hope" scrawled in white paint on a makeshift grave marker. For me, this theme is clear and is as old as Dante: abandon all hope those who enter. Indeed, the sense of hopelessness, particularly announced by Simon toward the end of the film and Simon's final action (you need to watch the movie to see because I will not spoil it for you), is always in this film and seems exactly right for this film. Form and function merge wonderfully here and if you allow this film to work for you, I believe you will find your time well-spent.
OK--yes this film has its flaws; that is why I gave it seven stars. If you ware one hope looks for action and lots of SFX, this films is not for you. If, however, you relish an intellectual viewing, then pour yourself a brandy, sit back, sip your drink, and relish this film. And for nothing else, watch the funny play at the end of the credits when the humane society disclaimer about no harm to animals happened in this film. Watch and enjoy!
