The 2019 zombie comedy The Dead Don’t Die is finding its audience anew on Netflix, where it’s currently trending this week. Initially released to mixed reviews, this film directed by indie auteur Jim Jarmusch has had its fair share of ups and downs at the box office, earning only $15.3 million during its limited release. Despite its underwhelming performance, its star-studded cast—including Bill Murray, Adam Driver, and Tilda Swinton—seems to be drawing viewers back for another look this holiday season.
The Dead Don’t Die features Murray and Driver as police officers working to solve odd occurrences in their small American town, Centerville, as they encounter the chaos of a zombie invasion. This absurdist comedy pushes boundaries with its intentionally nonsensical dialogue and surreal plot twists. The comedic elements are blended with moments of genuine terror, evoking laughter even amid the oddities. While some viewers may expect more traditional zombie film tropes, the film intentionally eludes those expectations, marking it as distinctly Jarmusch. Murray, Driver, and Chloë Sevigny bring life to their roles as local law enforcement, trying to navigate the bizarre events. The presence of other notable actors like Steve Buscemi and Danny Glover helps thread together the film's quirky narrative.
The film debuted at the Cannes Film Festival and later rolled out to limited theatres, leading to diverse reception among critics and audiences alike. Critics have noted its perplexing tone—a mix of comedy and horror—that has drawn both praise and criticism. It currently holds a 54% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 5.8 out of 10. Some found it puzzling, yet acknowledge the cast’s strength, which provides enough intrigue to keep viewers engaged. "Critics found it puzzling with a constantly shifting tone," stated one review, underlining the film's mixed reception.
This holiday season presents the perfect opportunity for viewers to revisit this peculiar parody of the zombie genre. According to opinions shared among various reviewers, including freelance critic John Serba, The Dead Don’t Die acts as more than just entertainment—it's also socially relevant. It explores themes around environmental issues and societal absurdities through its fantastical lens. One writer noted, "...having a laugh, maybe casting A-listers against type," pointing to how the film interplays with its star power rather than relying solely on shock or horror to engage its audience.
Jarmusch’s work often reflects his interpretation of reality through skewed, fragmented storytelling—The Dead Don’t Die is no different. Rather than fitting neatly within the confines of genre expectations, it hones in on the idiosyncrasies of its characters and their surroundings. A critic aptly captured the film's essence, remarking, "Our Take: STREAM IT. I’ll take it, for one viewing.” And so, as the film finds its footing on the streaming platform, new generations of moviegoers may discover its absurd charm.
For those who are still curious or unsure about Jarmusch's unique flair for storytelling, The Dead Don’t Die is available to rent and purchase on Blu-ray and DVD, alongside its streaming option on Netflix. Critics and audiences alike have understandably diverged when it came to their opinions on the film—this makes it all the more fascinating to experience. Alongside fans of the director, new viewers can witness how he plays with his sleight of hand, blending genres and subverting expectations.
Streaming now on Netflix, this film encourages viewers to break away from conventional narratives and engage with something different—perhaps grabbing their interest through its humor or its commentary. With its charmingly eclectic cast and Jarmusch's signature whimsy, The Dead Don’t Die offers just the right amount of surrealism for audiences leaning toward something original this season.
