A “masterpiece” zombie drama has an ending that hit fans like a “punch to the gut” and is Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. CARGO (2017) follows a couple, (played by Sherlock and Fargo star Martin Freeman and Susie Porter) and their baby Rosie who are trying to survive after a deadly viral outbreak strikes.
Set in the Australian outback, the film is directed by Ben Howling, and Yolanda Ramke, who also wrote the screenplay. It’s based on a 2013 short film the pair made together. One IMDb user said: “This isn’t a zombie movie. This is a beautiful masterpiece about parenting, survival, and what it means to be human.
An Audience Writer on Rotten Tomatoes said the film “introduces some fresh ideas to the zombie genre, but zombies aren’t really the main focus here”.
“I went in expecting more action and was ready to rate it a 3 because of the lack of it, but the ending hit me like a punch to the gut.
“It almost made me cry. It’s a deeply sad film that really puts you in the protagonist’s shoes and makes you feel every bit of what he’s going through.”
Another user, who gave the film five stars, said: “This movie is one of the most moving experiences I have enjoyed in the cinema this year and I think everyone should make the effort to enjoy it as it is very special in terms of it’s expansiveness, beauty and tenderness. Highly recommended.”
Some warned that those expecting a beathless gore-filled thriller might be disappointed, but many appreciated its surprising tone.
One wrote: “This zombie-tale is original and emotive, focusing on characters and societal perceptions of the ‘virus’, rather than gratuitous gore and violence. It is a beautiful portrayal of love and family on a macabre backdrop.”
Another said it was a, “Different take on a well worn genre. Very appreciated.”
The film was also well received among many critics, with an 88% score on the site’s Tomatometer, which reflects percentage of Approved Tomatometer Critics who have given it a positive review.
The film is rated 15 and features very strong language, strong violence, and gore, so it may not be for everyone.
CARGO is streaming on Netflix now.