Blood Quantum is a 2019 horror film that takes place in the Red Crow Mi’gMaq reserve where a zombie outbreak starts happening, but the Indigenous residents are somehow immune to this horrifying plague.
Zombie flicks are undeniably a lot of fun to watch, especially for genre movie enthusiasts. Many filmmakers have their own unique take on zombies, and there’s just something interesting about them. They’re able to elevate this particular concept of horror cinema by having some cool protagonists and thrilling action sequences. Blood Quantum is the latest feature to do so. Written and directed by Jeff Barnaby, who is best known for his intriguing feature debut titled Rhymes for Young Ghouls, his second film takes on the zombie genre, while also dealing with some sociopolitical themes in a very compelling way.
Blood Quantum takes place in the Red Crow Mi’gMaq reserve where a zombie outbreak starts happening, but the Indigenous residents are somehow immune to this horrifying plague. Our group of heroes, led by the tribal sheriff named Traylor (Michael Greyeyes), will do whatever it takes to survive and fend off against the undead. There’s a lot more going on, so get ready to experience one of the most unique genre features ever made.
From the get-go, it does a great job setting up the tone and atmosphere. The zombie kills that you have come to see are brutally well-executed, and there’s a lot of tension from start to finish. Yes, it is gory and violent, and it definitely lives up to its title. Admittedly, there are some intense moments that are a little hard to watch, but it’s never gratuitous. It’s an ugly world out there, so it’s crucial to illustrate that aspect in a world where the undead is taking over. The subject of colonialism is a big part of it, and it’s quite engrossing that the director has decided to use the zombie trope as an effective way to show what Indigenous people have been through with their deep personal issues.
While Blood Quantum works really well as a zombie flick, it’s actually also a fascinating drama about family and survival. The biggest strength of the film is Barnaby’s ability to write some riveting and well-developed characters. It stars a highly talented cast of actors such as Michael Greyeyes, Forrest Goodluck, Kiowa Gordon and Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers, and they all deserve praise for their brilliant performances. For a premise like this, it’s important that you care about these people, and you do. You completely understand the struggle that they’re going through, which makes the movie a very investing and character-driven story about these strong individuals living their lives during a very difficult period of time.
Blood Quantum is another great title that showcases the significant value of Canadian cinema. You don’t really get to see a lot of films like this, and you have to commend Barnaby for having the ambition of telling this story. It’s not only a terrific zombie film, but it’s also a fascinating drama that has a powerful message of standing up for yourself. It’s an impressive genre feature that will be sure to have a cult following as time goes on.