Handling the Undead: A Slow-Burning Symphony of Grief and Horror

Directed by: Thea Hvistendahl  

Starring: Bjørn Sundquist, Olga Damani, Bente Børsum, Anders Danielsen Lie, Renate Reinsve, Bahar Pars

**Rating:** ★★★★☆

“Handling the Undead,” Norwegian director Thea Hvistendahl’s feature debut, masterfully intertwines horror and drama, presenting a haunting exploration of grief and hope against a backdrop of the undead. If you’re expecting fast-paced zombie chases, this film may surprise you with its slow, creeping dread that lingers long after the credits roll.

Plot Summary:

The film is based on a novel by John Ajvide Lindqvist, known for his grounded approach to supernatural stories. It follows three interwoven storylines set in an overcast Norwegian town where a freak electromagnetic event—depicted as a power surge filling radio waves with static—resurrects the recently deceased.

The film opens with Mahler (Bjørn Sundquist) digging up his grandson’s coffin after hearing a bang from inside. In another storyline, Elisabet (Olga Damani) returns home to her partner Tora (Bente Børsum), who is shocked but overjoyed to see her. Meanwhile, David (Anders Danielsen Lie) faces confusion when his girlfriend Eva (Bahar Pars), previously declared dead, inexplicably returns to life.

Themes and Execution:

“Handling the Undead” delves into the emotional turmoil and irrational hope that accompanies the return of deceased loved ones. The film doesn’t rely on traditional horror tropes but instead builds its tension through quiet, somber scenes and minimal dialogue, creating a pervasive sense of melancholy.

The film’s cinematography, bathed in gray light, enhances its mournful tone, with static shots of dark hallways and isolated cabins adding to the atmosphere. Hvistendahl’s understated direction allows the characters’ raw emotions to shine through, making their reactions to the supernatural event both believable and heartbreaking.

Performances:

The cast delivers powerful performances, especially Renate Reinsve, who portrays the grieving mother of the undead boy. Bjørn Sundquist’s portrayal of Mahler’s desperation and Olga Damani’s depiction of Tora’s shock and joy add depth to the film’s exploration of grief and hope. Anders Danielsen Lie and Bahar Pars also excel, capturing the confusion and tentative optimism of their characters.

Pacing and Impact:

While the film’s slow pace effectively builds tension, it may test the patience of some viewers. However, this measured approach works to its advantage, allowing the dread to seep into the viewer’s bones. The occasional missteps in tone are minor and don’t detract significantly from the film’s overall impact.

Conclusion:

“Handling the Undead” is a captivating and emotionally resonant film that stands out in the zombie genre for its focus on the human experience rather than on gore and action. It’s a poignant exploration of how we cope with loss and the irrational hope that our loved ones might return. If you’re in the mood for a slow-burning, thoughtful horror film that lingers in your mind, this is one to watch—just maybe not after midnight.