The Returned (2013) #376

"The Returned" offers a fresh and unique perspective for bloated zombie sub-genre by offering a film where the threat of zombies is very real but you never really see one except for the opening credits and a minor flash-back sequence. In fact, the word zombie is only used in one scene, and this single moment is made all the more intense just because of that word. Instead of the word zombie, the preferred politically correct term used in the film is "the returned"; those who have been infected with the virus that turns someone into a zombie but who was saved by medical means before the infected took over the body completely. Because of this set-up, the film is driven by emotions and relationships, paranoia, and social clashes over how those who have become "returned" should be handled. With strong performances by Emily Hampshire (Kate) and Kris Holden-Reid (Alex), "The Returned" is an intense and enthralling horror film without the usual blood and guts, making this movie safe for those who would typically avoid horror movies in the first place.

Kate works as a doctor at a clinic that treats those who have been infected by a zombie bite. By administering a vaccine daily, the infected patient becomes a "returned", those who have been saved from the horrible fate of becoming a zombie. Kate's lover Alex is a "returned", and during a dinner party, Alex finally reveals his secret to his best friend Jacob and Jacob's girlfriend Amber. Although initially shocked, Jacob and Amber remain friends with Kate and Alex. When news spreads that the national stock pile of the daily vaccine that Alex needs is running out and that there isn't a reliable alternative, Kate and Alex begin to fear the reactions of their neighbors and government more and more as the days pass. Special military controlled camps are opened and all documented "returned" must be transferred to a camp or else. Kate and Alex leave the city with Jacob and Amber, but soon this course of action develops it's own problems for Kate and Alex. As their options and their personal supply of vaccine runs out, Kate and Alex are forced to take desperate measures in order to prolong their time together....