Cargo

Stranded father seeks safety for infant daughter

Watch on Netflix
About Cargo

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 44m

Cast
Martin Freeman, Anthony Hayes, Susie Porter, Kris McQuade, Caren Pistorius

About Cargo

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About

Cargo is a 2018 horror movie that revolves around a viral outbreak that turns people into zombies. The film is set in a post-apocalyptic world where survivors struggle to survive and protect their loved ones.

The story follows a father named Andy (played by Martin Freeman) who is infected with the virus while trying to find a safe place for his infant daughter. He has 48 hours to find someone to take care of his daughter before he turns into a zombie himself.

As Andy embarks on this desperate mission, he encounters various challenges, including other survivors and the threat of the infected. The film delves into the emotional journey of Andy as he tries to protect his daughter and find hope in a bleak and dangerous world.

Making / Production

Cargo is an Australian production directed by Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke. The film is based on their award-winning short film of the same name, which gained popularity on the internet.

The feature-length adaptation of Cargo was shot in various locations across South Australia, including Adelaide and Flinders Ranges. The filmmakers aimed to create a visually striking and immersive post-apocalyptic world, filled with desolate landscapes and a sense of despair.

The movie's production relied heavily on practical effects, combining makeup and prosthetics to create realistic-looking zombies. The filmmakers wanted to avoid relying solely on CGI and create a more authentic and grounded horror experience.

Actors

  • Martin Freeman as Andy: A loving father determined to protect his daughter.
  • Simone Landers as Thoomi: A young Indigenous girl who forms a bond with Andy and helps him on his journey.
  • Anthony Hayes as Vic: A hostile survivor with his own agenda.
  • Susie Porter as Kay: Andy's wife who quickly succumbs to the virus, becoming one of the infected.
  • David Gulpilil as Daku: An Aboriginal elder who provides guidance to Andy.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • Cargo was initially a short film created by Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke as part of the Tropfest film festival in Australia. The short film received critical acclaim and gained viral popularity, leading to the development of the feature-length adaptation.
  • The film takes inspiration from Indigenous Australian culture and incorporates themes of family, survival, and connection to the land.
  • Cargo explores the human aspect of a zombie apocalypse, focusing on the emotional journey of its characters rather than relying solely on gore and violence.

Awards

Cargo has received several awards and nominations, including:

  • Winner - Best Film - Sydney Film Festival (2017)
  • Winner - Best Editing - Adelaide Film Festival (2017)
  • Nominated - Best Australian Feature - Adelaide Film Festival (2017)

Quotes

  • "Once you're bitten... they wrap you up like a little burrito and bury you in the ground... I'm not gonna let that happen to you, honey." - Andy
  • "It's about people. It's about what it means to be human." - Thoomi

Music / Soundtrack

The music and soundtrack of Cargo contribute to the film's atmospheric and tense tone. The score, composed by Jai Courtney, blends haunting melodies with subtle elements of suspense and horror. The soundtrack features a mix of eerie and melancholic tracks that enhance the emotional impact of the story.