Extinction (2015)
July 30, 2025
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Movie Review: Extinction (2015)
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Extinction, the 2015 post-apocalyptic horror drama directed by Miguel Ángel Vivas, is a surprisingly intimate tale of survival that dares to slow down the zombie genre. While not without its flaws, the film manages to deliver a tense, snow-covered atmosphere and a few genuinely emotional punches.
Set years after a viral outbreak has seemingly wiped out most of humanity, the story centers around two men—Patrick (Matthew Fox) and Jack (Jeffrey Donovan)—who live as neighbors in bitter silence, separated by trauma and resentment. Between them is young Lu (Quinn McColgan), Jack’s daughter, whose innocence becomes the emotional anchor of the film.
Where Extinction succeeds is in its refusal to rely on cheap scares. The infected creatures, more animalistic than traditional zombies, are used sparingly, and that restraint helps build genuine suspense. The real drama, however, lies in the strained relationships among the survivors. Fox delivers a surprisingly nuanced performance as a hardened loner, while Donovan brings quiet strength and fatherly warmth to his role.
The cinematography, dominated by icy blues and stark white landscapes, reinforces the film’s bleak tone. The abandoned, snow-drenched town feels convincingly desolate, and the isolation is palpable. It’s a different kind of horror—one that creeps up through loneliness and regret rather than through blood and gore.
That said, the film struggles with pacing. The first half is almost too slow, and the second half rushes through revelations and action in a way that feels unbalanced. Some of the dialogue is stiff, and a few emotional beats don’t land as strongly as they should.
Still, Extinction offers more than expected from a low-profile release. It’s not a game-changer for the genre, but it’s a well-made, thoughtful entry that focuses more on the human condition than the horror. If you’re looking for a slower, character-driven zombie drama with a wintry twist, this one’s worth your time.