Netflix Review: ‘Outside’ is a Slow-Simmering Zombie Flick that Blends Family Drama with Psychological Horror
Netflix’s Outside delivers a fresh take on the zombie genre, blending traditional horror elements with a deeply personal story about family drama and psychological tension. Released on October 17, 2024, this is the first Filipino zombie movie of its kind, and it carves out a unique space in the genre. Directed by Carlo Ledesma, the film is a slow-simmering, atmospheric dive into the complexities of family conflict during a zombie outbreak.
The story centers around Francis (Sid Lucero), a troubled man who, along with his wife Iris (Beauty Gonzales) and their two sons, flees to an abandoned farmhouse in Negros Occidental in hopes of escaping the chaos. What should be a haven quickly becomes a nightmare, as unresolved family trauma resurfaces, adding layers of psychological horror to the zombie-filled landscape.
Ledesma, who is known for his work on The Tunnel (2011), masterfully brings his personal vision to Outside. Inspired by his own experiences in Negros, he incorporates local folklore and haunting imagery, turning the provincial setting into a character of its own. The slow pacing, while deliberate, might frustrate those expecting a faster, action-packed zombie film, but the tension builds slowly and effectively. This allows room for the film’s real strength: exploring Francis’ strained relationship with his father, and the ripple effects this has on his family.
The zombies in Outside are no joke. These aren’t the slow, lumbering undead we’ve seen in other films. Filipino zombies are fast, slippery, and terrifyingly articulate. In a fascinating twist, some zombies retain a sliver of their humanity, echoing the last thoughts they had while alive. For instance, Francis’ zombified mother repeatedly says “sorry,” a chilling reminder of unfinished business and emotional baggage.
Visually, Outside excels. The cinematography captures the isolation of the farm and contrasts it with the gritty, slimy look of the zombies. While there isn’t an abundance of action, the visual effects are on point, making the zombies’ appearance unsettling and grotesque. Their soggy, decayed look feels distinctly Filipino, fitting the humid, rural setting of the film. The makeup and costumes, executed by local talent, further solidify the film’s unique aesthetic.
However, the film’s pacing could be a challenge for some viewers. It has a 142-minute runtime, and the slow-burn style might lead some to feel like the film drags in certain parts. But for those who stick with it, the payoff is in the rich psychological depth and emotional turmoil that unfolds between the characters. The interplay between the family members—especially Francis, whose unresolved trauma with his father looms large—keeps the audience engaged even when the zombies aren’t on screen.
One could argue that Outside sacrifices some of the typical gore and fast-paced thrills we expect from zombie flicks in favor of a more thoughtful, introspective narrative. And while there are moments where a bit more action or intensity would have elevated the stakes, it’s clear that the film is more interested in what happens inside the characters than what’s happening outside. The tension between the internal and external horrors mirrors the slow-burning fear that often simmers beneath the surface of family relationships.
As a fan of the horror genre, I’d give Outside a solid 7/10. It’s a unique film that offers something different from the typical zombie fare. While the pacing might slow down at times, it’s worth sticking around for the psychological layers and the stunning visuals that make this movie distinctly Filipino. Had the film leaned a little more into the gore and upped the pace, it might have been an even stronger contender in the zombie genre. That said, the setting—a desolate farm—beautifully parallels the isolation and stagnation felt by the characters, and it’s hard not to appreciate the careful thought that went into that choice.
For Filipino cinema, Outside is a milestone. It’s a zombie film with heart, blending psychological horror with family drama, and proving that Filipino filmmakers can take a well-worn genre and make it their own.
About the Author
Michael is joined at the hip with the Filipino American community through family, friends, and his love for the food. Over the past 15 years+, he has been an active "behind the scenes" contributor to a variety of Filipino community groups, events, and activities. Michael is also ringleader of the FilAm FamBam crew and in his free time enjoys RV'ing and anything tech.
