Alive (2020) Movie Review

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (7/10)

#Alive is a South Korean zombie thriller directed by Cho Il-hyung that takes a refreshing and modern approach to the survival-horror genre. Set in Seoul, the movie explores themes of isolation, resilience, and human connection amidst a zombie apocalypse. Featuring Yoo Ah-in and Park Shin-hye in lead roles, the film delivers an intense yet intimate story.

Plot Overview

The movie follows Oh Joon-woo (Yoo Ah-in), a young gamer who wakes up to find his city overrun by a sudden zombie outbreak. Trapped in his apartment, Joon-woo struggles with dwindling resources, mounting fear, and crushing loneliness. As days turn into weeks, he discovers another survivor, Kim Yoo-bin (Park Shin-hye), living in a neighboring apartment. Together, they devise a plan to escape their grim reality.

Strengths

Contemporary Setting: By integrating modern technology like smartphones, social media, and drones, #Alive provides a fresh take on the zombie genre, making it relatable to today’s audiences.
Character-Driven Narrative: Yoo Ah-in gives a compelling performance, capturing Joon-woo's vulnerability and eventual transformation into a resourceful survivor. Park Shin-hye complements him with her portrayal of the pragmatic and strong-willed Yoo-bin.
Tension and Atmosphere: The claustrophobic setting of the apartment enhances the feeling of dread and suspense, keeping the audience engaged.
Subtle Commentary: The film subtly critiques modern society’s reliance on technology and the importance of human connection during crises.

Weaknesses

Predictable Plot: While entertaining, the storyline treads familiar territory for seasoned fans of the zombie genre.
Underdeveloped Zombies: The undead lack distinctive traits or behaviors, making them less memorable compared to other zombie-centric films.
Limited World-Building: The movie focuses narrowly on the protagonists’ experiences, offering little insight into the larger outbreak or its origins.

Final Thoughts

#Alive may not reinvent the zombie genre, but its contemporary angle and strong performances make it an enjoyable watch. The film resonates most when it explores the emotional toll of isolation and the human drive for connection. It’s a solid choice for fans of survival stories looking for a modern twist.

Best suited for: Viewers who enjoy character-focused survival dramas and modern horror films.
Where to watch: Available on Netflix.

Alive (2020) Movie Review