Written by Chun Sung-il | Directed by Lee Jae-kyoo & Kim Nam-su

The horror genre is complicated because if it’s not done well it gets boring! “All of Us Are Dead” is another example of brilliant South Korean entertainment in this vein, after “Kingdom”. One of the highlights is that they don’t try to reinvent the wheel; they just make it spin in a more refined way – a smart, refreshing zombie series that links the effect of the virus to human cruelty. The original title is “Currently at our school”, the focus is on the education system. The horror of everyday school life, more existential for some than others, is a horror analogy to the reality of many young people.

The theme is not specific to South Korean culture, but it is not surprising that the story was born there precisely because of its brutal educational system. For some, bullying is a way to reduce stress. Those who are intimidated, in turn, end up doubly stressed. Other options include abstinence, drugs, or suicide. Society is blind and powerless in the face of this, “The Glory” narrates this theme very well. Pressure for performance and, in this context, the psychological suffering of young people seem to have no alternatives. And with that, the students are left alone to find some form of survival!

The series truly excels in illuminating the intricacies of human decision-making during times of profound distress, drawing striking parallels to the contemporary context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Particularly bitter is the portrayal of governments prioritizing political considerations over the well-being of the populace. The narrative ingeniously compels viewers to empathize with characters whose choices may diverge from one’s convictions. A meticulously crafted and intellectually stimulating script, leaving me eagerly anticipating the arrival of the second season!

Credits: Netflix South Korea