The cinematic world is buzzing with the release of We Bury The Dead, a zombie thriller that takes us on a journey to the eerie and remote Tasmania. But here's the twist: the movie was actually filmed in Western Australia! This decision has sparked a heated debate among filmmakers and enthusiasts alike.
Filmmaker Zak Hilditch envisioned Tasmania as the perfect backdrop for his zombie horror masterpiece, captivated by its isolated charm. However, the harsh reality of production costs and logistical challenges forced him to shift the filming to Western Australia, leaving Tasmania's stunning landscapes merely as a creative inspiration.
The movie stars Daisy Ridley as Ava, a determined woman on a mission to find her husband in a post-apocalyptic Tasmania. But the real-life challenge of bringing this story to life in Tasmania proved to be as arduous as Ava's journey. Hilditch revealed that the decision to film elsewhere broke his heart, but the lack of funding and logistical complexities made it an impossible task.
The Tasmanian government's inability to provide financial support, coupled with the state's arts sector receiving the lowest government funding in the country, has left many feeling disappointed. This situation raises questions about the support for local film industries and the challenges they face in competing with other regions.
Despite the controversy, the film's setting remains a captivating element. The trailer showcases a haunting vision of Hobart and the Tasman Bridge, destroyed in a massive explosion, setting the tone for the film's eerie atmosphere. Hilditch's initial scripts were set in America or New Zealand, but his personal experiences in Tasmania sealed the deal for the final location.
The crew's dedication to recreating the Tasmanian landscape in Western Australia paid off, with viewers praising the film's authenticity. However, this raises an intriguing question: how important is it for a film's setting to be authentic, and can a different location truly capture the essence of a place?
The film's release in North America and Australia has been met with positive reviews, scoring an impressive 87% on Rotten Tomatoes. But the limited theatrical release in Tasmania has left many locals feeling let down. This begs the question: should filmmakers prioritize local screenings to support regional audiences, or is a film's reach and accessibility more important?
As We Bury The Dead continues to thrill audiences, it leaves us with a lingering thought: are we burying the potential of local film industries, or can we find ways to bring these stories to life in their intended settings? Share your thoughts below and let's spark a conversation about the challenges and opportunities in the world of filmmaking!
