The trailer for ‘What We Become’ (originally titled ‘Sorgenfri’) paints a chilling portrait of societal breakdown triggered by a rapidly spreading, deadly infection, demanding viewers confront uncomfortable questions about humanity’s capacity for both barbarity and resilience in the face of existential threat. At its core, the trailer asks: what happens when the veneer of civilization is stripped away, revealing our primal instincts for survival? It suggests a harrowing answer: we become capable of anything, both horrific and heroic, driven by the desperate need to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
The Unfolding Nightmare: Deciphering the Viral Outbreak
‘What We Become’ isn’t just another zombie film; it delves into the psychological and sociological implications of a pandemic. The claustrophobic setting of a seemingly idyllic suburban neighborhood amplifies the terror as families are forced to confront their neighbors, their government, and ultimately, themselves. The trailer hints at a governmental response that is both brutal and ineffective, further eroding trust and fueling the chaos. The speed of the infection, the aggressive nature of the afflicted, and the helplessness of the authorities combine to create a palpable sense of dread.
The Breakdown of Order
The rapid spread of the infection is a key element driving the narrative. The trailer showcases the initial denial, followed by growing panic and then outright anarchy. The military lockdown, intended to contain the virus, quickly becomes a source of fear and oppression. This creates a breeding ground for resentment and resistance, highlighting the ethical dilemmas inherent in such extreme measures. We see glimpses of ordinary people being forced to make impossible choices, jeopardizing their morality in the name of survival.
The Human Cost
Beyond the gore and horror, the trailer underscores the human cost of the outbreak. Families are torn apart, relationships are tested to their breaking point, and individuals are forced to confront their own mortality. The focus on the intimate struggles of a single family within the larger crisis allows viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper emotional level, making the unfolding events all the more terrifying.
Answering Your Burning Questions: The ‘What We Become’ FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the film ‘What We Become’, providing deeper insights into its themes, characters, and impact.
FAQ 1: What is the origin of the virus in ‘What We Become’?
The trailer offers no concrete explanation for the virus’s origins. This ambiguity enhances the sense of dread and helplessness. It’s left to the viewer to speculate, leaving room for interpretations about environmental factors, government experiments, or simply random mutation. The lack of explanation shifts the focus from the virus itself to the human response to it.
FAQ 2: How fast does the infection spread in ‘What We Become’?
The infection appears to spread rapidly. The trailer suggests a short incubation period before symptoms manifest. The speed of the transmission is crucial to the plot, as it quickly overwhelms the authorities’ ability to contain it. This rapid spread fuels the panic and chaos that engulf the neighborhood.
FAQ 3: Are the infected considered zombies in the traditional sense?
While the infected exhibit zombie-like behavior, such as aggression and a desire to attack the uninfected, the trailer avoids explicitly labeling them as “zombies.” They seem to retain some semblance of their former selves, which adds a layer of psychological horror. This subtle difference from traditional zombie tropes elevates the film beyond a simple gore-fest.
FAQ 4: What is the role of the military in ‘What We Become’?
The military’s role is presented as both necessary and problematic. They are tasked with containing the outbreak, but their methods are often brutal and indiscriminately enforced. This raises questions about the ethics of quarantine and the potential for government overreach during a crisis.
FAQ 5: How does the film explore the theme of societal breakdown?
‘What We Become’ showcases the breakdown of societal norms and values in the face of extreme pressure. The trailer hints at looting, violence, and a general disregard for the law. This collapse of order highlights the fragility of civilization and the potential for individuals to act in their own self-interest when survival is threatened.
FAQ 6: What makes ‘What We Become’ different from other zombie films?
Unlike many zombie films that focus on action and gore, ‘What We Become’ places a greater emphasis on the psychological and emotional toll of the outbreak. The intimate setting and focus on family dynamics distinguish it from more large-scale zombie epics. The film explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones.
FAQ 7: Does ‘What We Become’ offer any hope for survival?
The trailer offers glimpses of hope, primarily through the resilience and determination of the central family. However, the overall tone is bleak, suggesting that survival will come at a great cost. The film avoids easy answers and instead presents a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced during a pandemic.
FAQ 8: What is the significance of the film’s original title, ‘Sorgenfri’?
‘Sorgenfri’ translates to “Carefree” or “Without Sorrow” in Danish. This ironic title highlights the stark contrast between the initial tranquility of the neighborhood and the subsequent chaos and suffering that engulfs it. The change to ‘What We Become’ is arguably more evocative, focusing on the transformation of individuals under duress.
FAQ 9: How does the film use claustrophobia to create tension?
The confined setting of the suburban neighborhood and the increasingly restricted movement of the characters contribute to a sense of claustrophobia. This feeling of being trapped amplifies the tension and fear as the infection spreads and the walls close in.
FAQ 10: Does the film offer any commentary on government response to pandemics?
The film’s portrayal of the military’s actions and the government’s handling of the outbreak can be interpreted as a critique of bureaucratic inefficiency and the potential for abuse of power during a crisis. The trailer suggests that the government’s response may be as dangerous as the virus itself.
FAQ 11: What are the key ethical dilemmas presented in ‘What We Become’?
The film raises several ethical dilemmas, including the justification for quarantine, the use of deadly force to contain the infection, and the moral compromises individuals make in order to survive. These dilemmas force viewers to confront their own values and consider how they might react in a similar situation.
FAQ 12: How does the ending of ‘What We Become’ contribute to the film’s overall message?
The ending of ‘What We Become,’ while not explicitly revealed in the trailer, is generally considered bleak and ambiguous. This lack of a definitive resolution reinforces the film’s message about the enduring trauma of a pandemic and the long-lasting consequences of societal breakdown. The film doesn’t offer easy answers or a happy ending, leaving viewers to grapple with the unsettling questions it raises.
The Lasting Impact: Beyond the Screams
‘What We Become’ is more than just a horror film; it is a thought-provoking exploration of human nature under extreme pressure. By focusing on the emotional and psychological consequences of a viral outbreak, the film offers a chillingly realistic portrayal of societal breakdown and the lengths people will go to in order to survive. The trailer’s success lies in its ability to tap into our primal fears and anxieties, leaving viewers questioning what they themselves might become in a similar situation. It serves as a potent reminder of the fragility of civilization and the importance of preparedness in the face of unforeseen threats. The film’s legacy lies not just in its scares, but in its ability to spark conversations about our shared humanity and our capacity for both good and evil.