Co-writer and director Meera Menon’s “Didn’t Die” offers a fresh, reflective approach to the zombie apocalypse genre. Eschewing traditional horror thrills, it delves into the emotional and psychological toll of surviving in a world on the brink of collapse. Anchored by its creative vision, thoughtful storytelling, and compelling performances, this low-budget thriller stands out as one of the more contemplative entries in the genre. If you’re expecting a typical zombie gore-fest with jump scares every five minutes, this clever movie is going to surprise you in the best way.
The story kicks off with snarky podcast host Vinita (Kiran Deol) trying to keep her shrinking audience entertained while surviving in a world filled with “biters” (aka, brain-hungry zombies). Vinita hides her fear behind a tough exterior and dark humor, but when her estranged ex Vincent (George Basil) shows up with a baby in tow, things suddenly get personal. Vinita’s sarcastic walls start crumbling, and the story shifts into a thoughtful exploration of survival, trauma, and connection.
Right from the start, Menon’s writing makes you care about these characters. Vinita feels real, a woman who is funny, flawed, and vulnerable all at once, and Deol nails that balance perfectly. The tension between Vinita and Vincent is palpable and as things unfold, you’re pulled into their complicated past. The supporting cast (Samrat Chakrabarti, Ali Lopez-Sohaili, Katie McCuen) add more layers, making this feel like a genuine family drama with zombies lurking in the background.
One of the coolest parts of the film is its effective black-and-white cinematography, which turns out to be a genius move. The stark palette adds a cold, desolate vibe to the setting, making the world feel as drained and lifeless as the undead wandering around. The sense of dread and isolation evokes the old-school flair of George Romero, but with a modern Millennial-tinged twist that feels fresh and relevant. Menon has a keen eye for evocative visuals that enhance the film’s tone, too. Even the soundtrack works perfectly, with a minimalist score that’s eerie without ever overdoing it.
The film does stumble slightly with a barrage of family flashbacks, which hit hard at first but then start to feel too excessive. The same goes for the ill-advised epilogue that’s unnecessary and drags on a bit longer than it needs to. A little tighter editing could’ve helped as well, but these are very minor criticisms.
With its focus on emotions and relationships rather than action, “Didn’t Die” offers a grounded, refreshing take on the zombie genre. It’s a thoughtful, character-driven story with a bit of apocalypse in the mix. With its heart, humor, and just the right amount of existential dread, the film is as a reminder that survival isn’t just about escaping the undead—it’s about discovering meaning and connection in a world that often seems lacking in both.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 