ZombieCON Vol.1

Independent film done right.

Right strap in on this one folks…

Recently I’ve been doing CBT or talking therapy as it’s sometimes called to, work through a lot of personal problems I’ve carried, buried or ignored for a long time. It’s been really challenging because I’ve had to confront a lot of shit I’ve not been equipped to deal with in the past and face into things that previously I would have buried my head in the sand on. During it we uncovered huge issues with low self esteem, depression and in turn started on a full ADHD diagnosis.

Since completing my sessions I’ve really beginning to change my outlook on life and try to approach things in a more positive manner. My new world view is becoming: “If I put myself out there, stay positive and try and spread positivity then good things might happen”.

What does this have to do with ZombieCON Vol.1 then?

Well, this is the kind of film I would have been incredibly cynical about even sticking on a few years ago. A shoestring budget, independently made love letter to zombie and geek culture? Nah, you’re alright mate, I’m going to stick on Hellraiser again.

However, embracing this new philosophy and, in turn, being receptive to others putting themselves out there too, I stuck ZombieCON on, with an open mind but low expectations. Suffice to say, those expectations were shattered.

This is a film that has been made by a group of people who have a huge affinity for the culture and you can see the heart, talent and guts (pun intended) that has gone into this film. Through the years and since launching VHiStory, I’ve watched some appallingly bad films. They can be big budget, low budget, well acted, poorly acted etc etc. The key ingredient for me typically, is the intent and love that’s gone into it.

ZombieCON has some flaws sure. I felt it could have done with a bit of a trim in run time towards the culmination of the story and I initially found some of the camera work a little off putting. However, in the end, the positive aspects far outweigh any negatives. For a low budget independent passion project, the acting is fantastic. The script is good and feels realistic. Too many times you come across horrendously cringey scripts but not the case here.

The effects are better than a lot of studio films I’ve seen and that’s no exaggeration. The soundtrack and pop punk songs are really good, particularly the final song. As the credits roll up, I felt quite overwhelmed when I considered the amount of work that went into this film. It’s a labour of love.

So back to that mantra I’ve picked up in CBT: “If I put myself out there, stay positive and try and spread positivity then good things might happen”.

I’m so grateful to Erin and the team for getting in touch and giving me the opportunity to watch this film. It feels like it’s come at a great time for me personally to throw myself into it. The big message to take from this film is don’t be an aashole. I truly hope that by spreading the word about this film, others might go and seek it out. Support indie filmmakers and give them the opportunity to continue making films. There’s real talent that’s gone into making this film and I truly hope that if the team continue putting themselves out there, that good things keep happening for them.