Zald Razal

"Outside," a Filipino film, ultimately feels like a complete waste of time. While the actors deliver commendable performances, the storyline is riddled with inconsistencies and unanswered questions. The film attempts to blend elements of drama and horror, focusing on the protagonist, who grapples with trauma and mental health issues, particularly in the wake of his big brother's death an incident directly tied to Josh having the gun. Yet, the film fails to clarify what exactly happened to him. Additionally, crucial details about the virus whether it’s waterborne or airborne are never addressed, leaving viewers in the dark about its origins. The story hints that the big brother was the favorite son, but it never explores why the main character suffered abuse, which adds to the lack of depth in character motivations. The characters collectively display ineffective survival tactics: they know zombies are attracted to sound yet still play music and make reckless noise. Their poor decision-making, including ineffective use of weapons, detracts from the tension and realism. Furthermore, the portrayal of the soldier as cowardly undermines the credibility of his role. Overall, "Outside" could have been a compelling exploration of trauma and survival, but its poor storytelling and lack of coherent explanations lead to frustration rather than engagement. It’s disappointing to see such potential wasted.