A virus has transformed the majority of humans into zombie-like creatures. An unlikely group tries to fight for survival in a military base.
Despite the recent influx of zombie and virus films from various countries, including France with the entertaining 'Le Horde,' here's another French take. 'Mutants,' refreshingly, stands in contrast to its counterparts as it takes a serious tone with the subject matter, expertly filmed by director David Morlet.
The film boasts impressive sets, cinematography, and art direction. It features cold, eerie lighting, desolate bunkers, and well-executed gore effects, all against the backdrop of a snowy wintertime setting.
Many scenes are filled with tension, enhanced by a pervasive sense of claustrophobia for added horror. While the sound design for the infected may be considered excessive, the acting is top-notch, with Helene de Frougerolles (bearing a resemblance to Asia Argento) carrying the film. In Louis-Paul Desanges and David Morlet's screenplay, everything is portrayed realistically, lending a gritty edge to the narrative.
There is, unfortunately, an excessive use of shaky camera work, a characteristic often associated with zombie and virus films. Calls for help on the radio, fortified bunkers, machetes, guns, human betrayal, love, and loss-all the clichés are present but handled with realism. Combined with the naturalistic acting and a chillingly crafted score, 'Mutants' manages to stand out in the oversaturated genre.
Aside from the '28 Days Later' rage-like infected, the film features a well-balanced, simmering survival element infused with emotion, creating a captivating atmosphere and continuous action. Although devoid of humor, it remains bloody and dramatically entertaining.
