This Is Not a Test
The brief
MacDonald transforms a familiar zombie-in-a-school setup into something surprisingly introspective, with Olivia Holt anchoring the claustrophobic tension as a suicidal teen who finds purpose when the world literally ends. The film moves at a deliberate pace that some will find meditative and others will find slow, building dread through creaking hallways and whispered conversations rather than gore-soaked action sequences. Holt's performance carries real weight as she navigates both external horror and internal darkness, making this less about survival and more about what makes life worth fighting for. Perfect for fans of The Mist or 28 Days Later who want their zombie stories with actual emotional stakes.
The verdict
If you crave zombie stories that prioritize psychological depth over action and don't mind a deliberately slow burn, this introspective thriller delivers genuine emotional weight through Olivia Holt's compelling lead performance. If you're looking for typical zombie thrills or fast-paced horror, the meditative pacing and focus on internal struggle over external scares will likely frustrate you.
Watch with
- 👤 Solo viewers who appreciate character-driven horror
- ⚠️ Avoid if seeking fast-paced zombie action
Heads up
- Suicidal ideation and mental health themes (moderate)
- Zombie violence and infected attacks (moderate)
- Teen characters in life-threatening situations (frequent)
Credits
- Director
- Adam MacDonald
- Cast
- Olivia Holt, Froy Gutierrez, Carson MacCormac, Luke Macfarlane, Corteon Moore, Joelle Farrow, Chloe Avakian
Official synopsis
Sloane and four classmates take cover in Cortege High to escape a world plagued by the infected. As danger
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with Hive (2026)
Both feature small groups trapped and fighting for survival against relentless threats.
