The critically acclaimed South Korean zombie film, Train to Busan, is now available on VOD (iTunes offers optional English subtitles). When one person recommends a film it is worth adding it to your wish list to eventually watch one day. However, when everyone and their dog are recommending a film you had better stop what you are doing and watch it. After a dozen or so people recommended this (in the same day) it was time to see what all of the buzz was about. They were right! If you like zombie films then you will really enjoy this take on the undead.
Train to Busan is writer/director Yeon Sang-Ho’s first live action feature (sequel to his animated film Seoul Station). The story follows a newly single father as he begrudgingly fulfills his daughter’s birthday wish by accompanying her on a train from Seoul to Busan to visit her mother. Joining them for the journey is a fantastic group of characters from all walks of life. There’s a homeless man, a couple expecting their first child, adorable elderly sisters, a grumpy business executive, a high school baseball team and their cheerleader. Unbeknownst to the early morning travelers, there has been a virus outbreak overnight. Just as the train begins to pull out of the station a young infected woman sneaks onboard. What’s worse than an impending zombie apocalypse? Being stuck on a train as the virus quickly spreads.
What I love the most about Train to Busan is the humanity in the midst of chaos. Every character reacts in his or her own individual way. These aren’t just characters we follow along with and eagerly await their fate. They feel like real people thrown into true terror, and we are right there with them every step of the way. There is a strong heart beating underneath the horror. Thanks to the incredible performance of young Soo-an Kim everyone will feel the reality beyond the thrills and chills. Train to Busan taps into a deeper layer of fear by showing the horror unfolding through the eyes of a child. It poses an interesting dichotomy: As humans we are innately selfish beings, but what happens when there are true innocents unable to save themselves? Do you focus on saving yourself, or risk your life to protect complete strangers?
Train to Busan has a great blend of scares, humor and heart. Somehow Yeon Sang-Ho created a feel-good emotional roller-coaster while surrounding us with some of the scariest zombies ever seen on screen. Over the years we have been inundated with so many different types of zombies that they are beginning to lose their fear appeal. However, these undead are as scary as all get out. And, creepy as well. Do yourself a favor… stop what you are doing and go rent Train to Busan. You won’t look at train travel the same way ever again.
Train to Busan (unrated) is now available to purchase or rent on VOD. Spoken language is Korean with optional English subtitles. Check your local VOD provider for additional behind the scenes extras.
