Carlo Ledesma's "Outside" impresses on a technical level, offering strong production design, top-notch zombie makeup and gore, and captivating sound design and camera work. The film has all the right ingredients to create a unique and immersive experience. However, "Outside" struggles with audience expectations, which may dampen its overall impact. While marketed as a zombie thriller, the film's core is a family drama, and the slow-burn pacing makes the shift in focus all the more noticeable.
The story follows a family of four who retreat to the father’s (Sid Lucero) childhood farmhouse after a zombie outbreak has ravaged the Philippines. The remote location initially seems like a safe haven, but with only sugar cane crops to sustain them, survival becomes increasingly difficult. Francis, the father, is determined to stay, believing it’s their best option to stay than risk going further north into a known refugee camp. As tensions rise between him, his wife Iris (Beauty Gonzalez), and their two sons Josh (Marco Masa) and Lucas (Aiden Tyler Patdu), old wounds resurface, and their past traumas threaten to consume them - just as the undead do outside.
“Outside” offers an unconventional take on the zombie genre, much like "The Last of Us" or "The Walking Dead", where the undead serve as a backdrop to the deeper, human crisis. For viewers expecting a pure horror-thriller, the film’s focus on family dynamics and emotional conflict may come as a surprise. This shift, while ambitious and praise-worthy, may leave some viewers disappointed, especially given how well-executed the horror elements are. The film introduces a unique twist on the zombies' behavior, and while it shows promise, this aspect remains under-explored, which feels like a missed opportunity.
Visually, "Outside" excels. The makeup and gore effects rival international productions, and the tension in certain scenes, particularly a standout chase sequence, showcases director Carlo Ledesma’s potential in action-driven films. However, the film doesn’t lean into these strengths as much as it could have, opting instead to prioritize its dramatic core. On the acting front, Sid Lucero delivers a standout performance as Francis, the fragile yet domineering father. His portrayal adds emotional weight to the film, particularly during moments of heightened tension, like the Christmas dinner scene, which effectively amplifies the unease and discomfort. Lucero’s ability to shift between vulnerability and aggression makes his character both unsettling and compelling.
Despite its strengths, “Outside” suffers from pacing issues. At around two and a half hours, the film feels unnecessarily long. Trimming at least 30 minutes would have made the psychological aspects more effective, keeping the tension taut without dragging. The film may divide audiences - those expecting non-stop thrills may find the family drama too heavy-handed, but those willing to adjust their expectations will appreciate the film’s layered exploration of trauma and survival. In conclusion, "Outside" is a well-crafted film with strong performances and technical excellence. However, its slow pacing and focus on family dynamics over pure horror may polarize viewers. Those looking for an emotional drama with a unique take on the undead will find much to admire, but fans of fast-paced zombie thrillers may come away wanting more.
Outside Movie Review: Family Drama First
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