Daisy Ridley's latest film, 'We Bury the Dead', is a zombie movie with a unique twist. The film's director, Zak Hilditch, wanted to create something distinct and engaging, and he succeeded with a chilling sound effect that will make audiences squirm. Hilditch explains that the idea came from the concept of growing agitation, which he translated into the iconic teeth-grinding noise. This sound was so crucial that the sound team was excited to experiment with it before the shoot even began.
The movie follows Ava Newman, played by Daisy Ridley, who travels to Australia to search for her husband after a military accident. The dead, however, have other plans, and Ava must navigate through a world of teeth-grinding zombies. Hilditch's personal connection to the project stems from the loss of his mother, which inspired the film's exploration of grief and the realization that there's no universal guide to coping with it. He found solace in the physical act of packing down his childhood home, a process that mirrored the intimate and surreal journey of the characters in the film.
Daisy Ridley's involvement brought a layer of humanity to the project. Hilditch describes her as the perfect fit for the role, capturing the character's essence and bringing it to life on screen. He praises her dedication and the way she transformed the script into a living, breathing entity. Hilditch believes that Ridley's versatility and eclectic tastes make her an exceptional actor, and he's excited for audiences to see her in a new light.
Despite his love for horror, Hilditch is drawn to stories centered around dynamic characters in any genre. He finds ordinary people in extraordinary situations captivating, and 'We Bury the Dead' is a testament to that. Hilditch doesn't plan to return to zombie tales anytime soon, as he aims to offer something fresh and unexpected. He wants to challenge expectations and provide a unique take on the zombie lore that audiences have come to know and love. Hilditch's approach to filmmaking is to always find a new angle, ensuring that each project is a fresh and engaging experience for the audience.