Handling the Undead: A Refreshing Spin on a Familiar Concept

A haunting portrayal of grief and closure

In the sweltering heat of an Oslo summer, the dead mysteriously awaken, throwing three families into chaos as their deceased loved ones return to them. Writer-director Thea Hvistendahl’s Handling the Undead presents a unique take on the zombie genre, focusing on the emotional journeys of the living as they navigate this unprecedented phenomenon.

The film follows the lives of three separate families, each grieving the loss of a loved one. The camera lingers on the characters, capturing the mundane tasks that make up their daily lives. While this approach may test the patience of some viewers, those who persevere will be rewarded with a poignant exploration of grief and closure.

Handling the Undead is not a film designed to scare; instead, it’s a thoughtful examination of the human experience. The reanimated corpses are not traditional zombies, allowing the living to process this new reality and find ways to cope. In some cases, the returned loved ones bring comfort and peace; in others, their presence sparks darkness and violence.

The ensemble cast delivers exceptional performances, drawing the viewer into their emotional journeys. The cinematography is striking, with sharp compositions that add to the eerie atmosphere.

Renate Reinsve and Anders Danielsen Lie in Handling the Undead

Handling the Undead is a slow-burning, atmospheric drama that explores the complexities of grief and closure. While it may not be a traditional zombie film, it’s a moving and affecting piece that will resonate with those willing to immerse themselves in its glacial pace.

A haunting portrayal of grief and closure

In the end, Handling the Undead is a film about finding peace and moving forward, even in the face of the unknown. It’s a poignant reminder that, no matter what life throws our way, we must find ways to heal and move forward.