The Returned

The Returned is a 2013 horror and drama movie directed by Manuel Carballo that features Emily Hampshire, Kris Holden-Ried, and Shawn Doyle in leading roles. The movie revolves around a dystopian world where the dead come back to life due to a mysterious virus that spreads across the globe.

At the beginning of the film, a scientist discovers a cure for the virus that brings people back to life. This discovery leads to a ray of hope for the survivors who are struggling to cope with the sudden death of their loved ones. However, the cure comes with a catch; the resurrected can only survive on human flesh, and if they don't get it, they die again.

Kate (Emily Hampshire) is a young woman who lost her husband, Alex (Kris Holden-Ried), to the virus. After the cure is developed, Alex returns from the dead and reunites with Kate. However, as Alex is a "Returned," he needs to feed on human flesh to stay alive. Kate is horrified, but Alex insists that he can control his cravings and that he loves her too much to hurt her.

Meanwhile, the government has set up a program to keep control of the Returned. The program requires that the Returned wear a bracelet at all times, which tracks their movements and ensures that they don't go rogue. The government also establishes a maximum number of allowed returns, which restricts the number of familial reunions.

As the movie progresses, the tension between the Returned and the government continues to escalate. The Returned become social pariahs as the government imposes stricter regulations on them. They are no longer allowed to work, their movements are monitored, and they are forced to live in isolation. Kate and Alex, along with other Returned, decide to form a community in an abandoned building in the city where they can take care of themselves.

The government becomes increasingly hostile towards the Returned, leading to a revolt. The Returned demands free passage to return to their homes and families, but the government refuses, and a war between the two becomes inevitable.

The Returned is a gripping and thought-provoking movie that explores the complexities of human relationships under dire circumstances. It raises philosophical questions about life, death, and morality. The film portrays the government's reaction as one of fear, rather than sympathy or empathy, towards the Returned; the authorities view the undead as a threat and try to eliminate them.

The movie's cinematography is also excellent. The setting is a post-apocalyptic world where the color palette is dim and muted. The city's deserted streets look eerie and haunted, which creates a sense of foreboding throughout the film.

Overall, The Returned is a poignant and haunting portrayal of the consequences of playing God. It is a well-acted, well-directed movie that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The film is emotional, thought-provoking, and is a must-see for any horror movie lover.