The Dead (2010)

Directed by: Howard J. Ford, Jonathan Ford | 101 minutes | horror | Actors: Rob Freeman, Prince David Oseia, David Dontoh, Ben Crowe, Glenn Salvage, Dan Morgan, Julia Scott-Russell, Laura Jane Stephens, John Dunton-Downer, Nelson E. Ward, Mark Chapman, Anne Davaud, Gaal Hama, Leala tall

Lt. Brian Murphy (Dan Morgan). The lieutenant must make his way through Africa, because he wants to see his family again. Not so special in itself, but Murphy’s homesickness is greatly increased by a zombie plague. Africa is overrun by hungry undead. But what about the rest of the world? Are they also dealing with zombies there? How could this epidemic arise and will the lieutenant be able to embrace his family in one piece?

‘The Dead’ answers a number of questions, but also leaves many questions open. It creates a gloomy atmosphere, because you don’t know exactly what is going on. What is clear is that Africa is in bad shape. The deserts are populated by zombies and survivors are sparse. There is hardly any radio contact possible and there is actually no provision of information.

The directors – Howard J. Ford and Jonathan Ford – were clearly inspired by genre master George A. Romero. The zombies waddle on their dead field towards their victims. In addition, their number is especially threatening. You can easily dodge a stumbling zombie, but when you’re surrounded by a dozen of these enemies it becomes difficult. ‘The Dead’ does not have a large budget. This can be seen in the not too graphic horror scenes. Just like Romero’s oeuvre, this production must have the atmosphere. The makers are increasing the tension by letting the zombie threat continuously slumber in the background. The monsters are always there. Even if they are not in the picture.

The cast isn’t bad. You won’t see actors like Dan Morgan, Rob Freeman and Glenn Salvage in big and expensive Hollywood blockbusters anytime soon (due to lack of charisma and charisma), but the cast does a great job. The soundtrack is not bad. Most of the time, it is quiet which enhances the atmosphere. ‘The Dead’ is a strong low budget horror film. Africa as the setting for a zombie film is well chosen.