Daisy Ridley takes on a new challenge in ‘We Bury the Dead’
A fresh face in horror-survival
Daisy Ridley, known for her iconic role in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy, is set to captivate audiences once again in Zak Hilditch’s upcoming horror-survival-thriller, We Bury the Dead. This film, which will have its world premiere at Australia’s Adelaide Film Festival in November, offers a first look at Ridley in a role that diverges significantly from her previous work.
A desperate search in a post-apocalyptic Tasmania
In We Bury the Dead, Ridley portrays a desperate woman who joins a body retrieval unit, hoping to find her husband alive after a catastrophic military experiment decimates the population of Tasmania. As she sifts through the corpses, she discovers that many are not quite dead. This chilling premise sets the stage for a gripping narrative that explores themes of loss, survival, and the human condition.
A journey through Tasmania’s haunting landscape
Ridley’s character appears haggard and determined as she journeys to the south of Tasmania, confronting her own unfinished business amidst the chaos. The film’s setting in the hauntingly beautiful yet desolate landscapes of Tasmania adds a layer of eerie realism to the story.
Stellar cast and production
The film co-stars Brenton Thwaites, known for his role in “Titans,” and Mark Coles Smith from “Mystery Road: Origin.” The production took place across Albany and the Great Southern region in Western Australia earlier this year, capturing the raw and rugged beauty of the area.
Zak Hilditch’s directorial vision
We Bury the Dead marks Hilditch’s fourth feature film. His previous works, including “1922,” “These Final Hours,” and “Rattlesnake,” have established him as a director with a keen eye for suspense and human drama. This latest project promises to be another compelling addition to his filmography.
Behind the scenes: Production and funding
The film is produced by Kelvin Munro and Grant Sputore of West Australia production company The Penguin Empire, known for “I Am Mother” and “The Furnace.” Hilditch’s frequent collaborator Ross Dinerstein of Campfire Studios in the U.S. also joins the production team. Additional producers include Joshua Harris and Mark Fasano of Gramercy Park, with executive producers Nathan Klingher, Ford Corbett, Ari Harrison, and Jeff Harrison of Umbrella Entertainment.
We Bury the Dead is a Penguin Empire production in partnership with Campfire Studios. It received significant production investment from Screen Australia, in association with Screenwest, Lotterywest, and the WA Regional Screen Fund. Further funding came from Gramercy Park Media and Peachtree Media Partners. Local distribution is handled by Umbrella Entertainment, while international sales are managed by Neon and UTA Independent Film Group.
Daisy Ridley’s evolving career
Ridley, who recently led The Marsh King’s Daughter and Young Woman and the Sea, and starred in and produced Sometimes I Think About Dying, continues to expand her repertoire. She is also expected to return to the “Star Wars” franchise in Star Wars: New Jedi Order, a new film set after the events of The Rise of Skywalker.
A new chapter in horror-survival
We Bury the Dead promises to be a thrilling addition to the horror-survival genre, with Ridley’s performance at its core. For fans of cinema, TV series, and music, this film offers a unique blend of suspense, emotion, and stunning visuals. As we await its premiere, the anticipation builds for what is sure to be a memorable cinematic experience.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit We Bury the Dead.
Personal reflections for enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, the prospect of seeing Daisy Ridley in a role that challenges her previous characters is exciting. Her ability to convey deep emotion and resilience will undoubtedly bring a new dimension to the horror-survival genre. The film’s setting in Tasmania, with its rugged and haunting landscapes, adds a layer of authenticity that is sure to enhance the viewing experience.
For TV series fans, the involvement of Brenton Thwaites and Mark Coles Smith adds a familiar touch, promising strong performances that complement Ridley’s. The film’s production team, with their impressive track record, ensures a high-quality cinematic experience.
Music enthusiasts might find the film’s score intriguing, as it will likely play a crucial role in building the suspense and emotional depth of the story. The combination of visual and auditory elements in We Bury the Dead is poised to create a truly immersive experience.
We Bury the Dead is a film that promises to captivate and thrill audiences, offering a fresh take on the horror-survival genre with a stellar cast and a compelling narrative.