We Bury the Dead is a 2025 Australian-American zombie survival thriller written and directed by Zak Hilditch. The movie stars Daisy Ridley, Mark Coles Smith, Brenton Thwaites, and Matt Whelan. It premiered at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival in March 2025. Later, it will release in the United States on January 2, 2026, and in Australia and New Zealand on February 5, 2026.
Plot Overview
The story follows Ava Newman, played by Daisy Ridley, who searches for her missing husband in a post-apocalyptic world caused by a catastrophic military experiment. She joins a body retrieval unit. Soon, she notices that some corpses show signs of life. This shocking discovery forces her to rethink survival, death, and humanity itself. Moreover, she faces difficult choices that test her courage and resolve.
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Key Characters
- Ava Newman (Daisy Ridley): Determined and resourceful, she fights to find her husband and survive in a collapsing world.
- Supporting Cast: Mark Coles Smith, Brenton Thwaites, and Matt Whelan portray key characters who encounter terrifying threats and moral dilemmas. Their stories intersect with Ava’s, creating tension and suspense.
Critical Reception
Critics praised We Bury the Dead for its performances, especially Daisy Ridley’s emotional and compelling portrayal of Ava. In addition, reviewers highlighted the film’s cinematography and innovative approach to the zombie genre. Although some moments follow traditional horror formulas, the movie keeps viewers engaged through its mix of suspense, horror, and emotional depth.
Themes and Impact
The film explores grief, survival, and human resilience. Unlike many zombie stories, it emphasizes emotional struggles alongside terrifying events. For instance, it shows how people maintain hope and connection despite overwhelming fear. Furthermore, the narrative questions what it truly means to remain human in extreme circumstances.
We Bury the Dead offers a unique blend of horror and psychological drama. With strong performances, a gripping story, and thought-provoking themes, it stands out in the zombie genre. Fans of horror and survival thrillers will find it both terrifying and emotionally satisfying. Therefore, it is a must-watch for 2025 audiences.



