Cargo (2017) is a gripping Australian post-apocalyptic thriller that combines elements of survival horror with an emotionally charged narrative. The film is set in a world ravaged by a zombie-like infection, where humanity is on the brink of extinction. The story follows Andy (Martin Freeman), a father desperately trying to protect his infant daughter Rosie after he is infected by the deadly virus that turns people into feral, zombie-like creatures.

After being bitten by one of the infected, Andy realizes he has only 48 hours before the transformation sets in. With time running out, he embarks on a perilous journey to find a safe place for his daughter, hoping to find someone who can take care of her once he is no longer able to. Along the way, he meets Thoomi (Simone Kessell), a young Indigenous woman who is also on her own journey to protect her family and find a cure. The unlikely duo forms a bond as they work together to navigate the dangers of the infected world while dealing with their own personal losses.

The film’s central themes explore parental love, survival, and sacrifice in a world where humanity is struggling to hold on. Andy’s determination to protect his daughter against all odds forms the emotional core of the story. The film combines tense moments of survival with heartfelt emotional beats, creating a story that is as much about personal redemption as it is about the fight for survival.

Main Themes:

1. Parenthood and Sacrifice: At its heart, Cargo is a story about a father’s love for his daughter. Andy’s determination to ensure Rosie’s safety, even in the face of inevitable doom, forms the emotional backbone of the film. His journey is one of selflessness, where he is willing to sacrifice everything to give her a chance at survival.
2. Survival and Hope: In a world where civilization has crumbled and society is breaking down, Cargo highlights the human need to survive. It also emphasizes that even in the darkest of times, hope can still be found in small acts of kindness and connection. Andy and Thoomi’s partnership showcases how, even in dire circumstances, human solidarity can make a difference.
3. Infection and Transformation: The looming threat of the infection is a constant presence throughout the film. As Andy’s physical transformation begins, the audience witnesses the emotional toll it takes on him. His struggle to retain his humanity while slowly losing himself to the virus adds a layer of tension and urgency to the film.
4. Cultural Identity and Connection: Thoomi’s character represents a connection to a culture that is struggling to survive in the post-apocalyptic world. Her storyline introduces the idea of the importance of family heritage and tradition, even in the midst of chaos.

Visual Style & Cinematography:

Cargo is visually striking, using its natural Australian landscapes to reflect the desolation and beauty of a world on the edge of collapse. The setting shifts between the quiet solitude of the outback and the desolate remnants of cities and towns. The film’s cinematography is grounded and intimate, focusing on close-up shots that highlight the characters’ emotional turmoil and the harshness of the environment they inhabit.

The zombies, known as “infected” in the film, are not the traditional fast-moving or grotesque creatures, but rather are a slow, deliberate transformation. The focus is more on the psychological and emotional effects of the infection on its victims, rather than on the external horror. This allows the film to focus more on the internal human struggle, adding layers to the narrative.

Critical Reception:

Cargo has been praised for its emotional depth, performances, and its ability to innovate within the post-apocalyptic genre. Critics have noted the film’s focus on character-driven storytelling rather than relying solely on action or traditional horror tropes. Martin Freeman’s portrayal of Andy has been singled out as one of the film’s standout features, as he brings a nuanced, heartfelt performance to a role that could have easily been one-dimensional.

The film’s pacing is slower compared to other zombie or post-apocalyptic films, but this is intentional, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the characters’ struggles and the quiet devastation of the world they inhabit. Some viewers may find the pacing slow, but those who appreciate character-driven, atmospheric storytelling will likely find Cargo to be a standout in the genre.