The story opens 15 days after the initial outbreak of infection, placing it before the events of the first film. We are introduced to Don (Robert Carlysle), his wife, and a few others who are holed up in a farmhouse (which I believe is the same farmhouse featured in Children of Men). Here the small group is intent on keeping themselves safe from the raging infected hordes. Unfortunately, their peace is short-lived. The house is broken into, many of them die, and Don is able to get away — but at what cost?
The story jumps forward to week 28. The US military is leading a NATO force in the reconstruction and repopulation of England. We find Don was able to survive, and is reunited with his children. When questioned about their mother, the kids get a story that is true, but not complete, as you will learn, and it is Don's decision in the opening prologue that will have the strongest of repercussions echo throughout the rest of the film.
This is the kind of movie that is hard to describe without giving away pivotal plot points, so I will have to be vague so as not to spoil it for any of you. The film is powerful; it does make some political statements regarding the current situation in the Middle East and the effectiveness of the military, but frankly, I could care less about political posturing. I care more about these elements in service of the story in the film.
Like I mentioned earlier, I was completely drawn into the story of Don, his kids, the military doctor, the helpful sniper, and the rest who find themselves involved. The way it unfolds is completely unpredictable. In many recent horror films you can make pretty good guesses as to who will live and who will die. This time, however, you will be hard pressed to make the same predictions. There are heroics, there are sacrifices, and there are buckets of blood.
Article comments
1 - Phillip Winn
Wow, I *really* need to see this soon!