Daisy Ridley’s latest film, We Bury the Dead, has emerged as a notable entry in the horror genre, particularly within the zombie subgenre. Directed by Zak Hilditch, the film presents a fresh take on traditional zombie narratives, diverging from familiar tropes to explore new thematic territories. While audiences have shown mixed reactions, the film has garnered a solid score on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a level of craftsmanship that sets it apart from other recent offerings.
The plot unfolds in a post-apocalyptic Tasmania, where an experimental weapon has inadvertently led to the extinction of most living beings. Ridley portrays Ava, a character driven by grief as she journeys south in search of her husband. During her travels, she encounters individuals who have been resurrected, albeit in a grotesque form, marked by a particularly disturbing sound effect that enhances the horror atmosphere of the film.
Innovative Horror Elements
In We Bury the Dead, Hilditch introduces a new style of zombie, characterized by basic brain functions and an unsettlingly human-like appearance. Unlike the traditional decaying undead, these zombies exhibit a chilling trait: they grind their rotten teeth incessantly, creating a sound that has been described as both unsettling and memorable. The grinding escalates to the point of breaking, resulting in a horrifying cracking noise that adds a unique auditory element to the film.
This innovative sound design draws comparisons to iconic horror sound effects from cinema history. Just as the xenomorph’s hiss in the Alien franchise or the growls from The Exorcist evoke immediate recognition and fear, the teeth grinding in We Bury the Dead leaves a lasting impression. Critics have noted that this sound effect not only amplifies the horror but also contributes to the film’s overall unsettling ambiance.
Performance and Direction
Ridley delivers a subtle yet powerful performance, embodying a character fraught with emotional turmoil. Her portrayal of Ava is complemented by Hilditch’s restrained approach to the film’s horror elements. The zombies are used sparingly, which enhances their effectiveness when they do appear. The chilling sound of teeth grinding becomes a focal point, engrossing viewers in the narrative’s tension.
As the film continues to screen in major theaters worldwide, it invites audiences to engage with its innovative storytelling and sound design. We Bury the Dead is slated for release on January 2, 2026, and its reception will likely shape discussions around the evolution of horror cinema in the coming years.
For fans of the genre, this film represents an intriguing exploration of grief and the human condition set against a backdrop of horror, making it a noteworthy addition to the landscape of modern cinema.
