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Párvulos, a post-apocalyptic zombie film playing at Montreal’s Fantasia International Film Festival, offers a compelling and emotionally resonant experience that is well worth your time. Directed by Isaac Ezban, this coming-of-age story is set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world, where three brothers—Salvador, Oliver, and Benjamin—must navigate the harsh realities of survival after a catastrophic event leaves them isolated in a remote house. As they fend for themselves in a farmhouse surrounded by rotting corpses, older brothers Salvador and Oliver tell the youngest, Benjamin, not to worry and that their parents will be back soon – but also never to go into the basement.

From the outset, Párvulos (whose title translates as ‘little children’) captivates with its tension-filled atmosphere. The film’s desolate and eerie landscape is brought to life through stunning cinematography and practical effects that heighten the sense of dread and uncertainty. Ezban skillfully blends dystopian horror with moments of quiet introspection in a world where danger lurks around every corner.

The film benefits enormously from three strong performances by the young actors playing the brothers. Their portrayal of Salvador, Oliver, and Benjamin is both authentic and moving, capturing the complexities of sibling relationships in the face of adversity. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, making their bond feel genuine and deeply affecting. This emotional core is what sets Párvulos apart from other entries in the zombie genre – it excels in exploring the touching themes of family and resilience. The story highlights how love and loyalty can be powerful forces even in the bleakest of circumstances, and this thematic depth adds a layer of richness to the film, making it more than just a tale of survival against the undead. These family obligations mutate and complicate the ways in which the brothers must jointly decide how to balance the threat of the monsters growling in the basement, those running through the woods outside, and the encroaching sounds of the religious fanatics coming down the road, preaching the apocalypse.

Ezban’s direction ensures that the pacing of Párvulos is well-balanced, with moments of high tension interspersed with quieter, character-driven scenes. This allows the audience to connect with the protagonists on a deeper level, understanding their fears, hopes, and motivations. The film’s score further enhances this emotional journey, with haunting melodies that underscore the brothers’ plight and moments of triumph.

Párvulos may not break much new ground in the zombie sub-genre, but it doesn’t need to. Its strength lies in its ability to tell a compelling and emotionally resonant story within familiar tropes. The film’s focus on character development and the exploration of familial bonds provides a fresh perspective that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

This film deserves recognition for its emotional depth and strong performances. It is a reminder that even within well-trodden genres, there is room for stories that touch the heart and resonate on a personal level. For those who appreciate a good zombie film with a heartfelt twist, Párvulos is a must-watch. It may not revolutionize the genre, but it certainly leaves a lasting impression with its poignant exploration of the strength that can come from family bonds.

The Fantasia Film Festival runs July 18 – August 4 in Montreal, Canada.

Andrew Pope is the co-founder of Whitlock and Pope, a online film journal focusing on cult and genre cinema.