Directed by Cho Il-hyung and Screenplay by Cho Il-hyung & Matt Naylor

Well-acted, genuinely unsettling, and occasionally funny, #Alive reminds us that the crowded zombie genre still has fresh ground to cover. The film captures the panic, fear, loneliness, and isolation many experienced during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. By trapping its protagonist alone in his apartment during a sudden zombie outbreak, #Alive offers a unique twist on apocalyptic themes. Beyond the tension and thrills, the story delves into the emotional and psychological struggles of individuals pushed to their limits.

One of the film’s highlights is Yoo Ah-in’s outstanding performance. Watching an actor evolve and refine their craft over time is one of the joys of cinema, and Yoo delivers here with remarkable emotional depth. Known internationally for his role in Burning, he brings subtlety and humanity to a challenging role. His portrayal captures the character’s despair, resourcefulness, and gradual unraveling in a way that feels both raw and relatable.

The film also resonates on a deeply personal level in today’s context. The use of digital tools—livestreams, drones, and online distractions—mirrors how we relied on technology during real-world lockdowns to stay connected, cope with isolation, and escape. This production taps into this modern reliance, making the film’s themes of isolation and survival especially relevant.

In its quiet stillness, it reimagines the zombie genre, proving that there’s just as much power in introspection as there is in action. With Yoo Ah-in’s stellar performance and a thoughtful exploration of human resilience, #Alive stands as a gripping, refreshing addition to Korean cinema’s zombie canon. Where Train to Busan captures the chaos of survival in motion, #Alive thrives in its reflection of survival at rest—together, they offer a brilliant showcase of storytelling range.

Image courtesy of Netflix