Charles Buttle
For many, the festive season is a time for good tidings, holiday cheer, and embracing the Christmas spirit. However, just because it’s Christmas, that doesn’t mean horror enthusiasts have to set aside their love of ghouls and scares. So, how can fans of the macabre celebrate the most wonderful time of the year while indulging their darker tastes? Enter the 2017 film Anna and the Apocalypse—a one-of-a-kind, gnarly, and delightfully twisted zombie Christmas musical that reimagines the coming-of-age holiday tale through a uniquely dark, emotive, yet comedic lens.
Plot Overview
Set in the quiet town of Little Haven, Anna and the Apocalypse follows Anna Shepherd, portrayed by Ella Hunt, a high school student dreaming of escaping her small-town life to explore the world. Alongside her friends—John, Steph, Chris, and Lisa, portrayed by Malcolm Cumming, Sarah Swire, Christopher Leveaux, and Marli Siu—the group navigates the trials of teenage life, each harbouring their own struggles and aspirations.
However, just as the festive cheer begins to take hold, their world is turned upside down when a zombie apocalypse strikes on Christmas Eve. Armed with improvised weapons, Anna and her friends embark on a dangerous journey through the streets of Little Haven, determined to reunite with their loved ones. But along the way, they come to realise that their journey isn’t just one of survival but a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the challenges of growing up—even under the most peculiar circumstances.
Singing Through the Apocalypse
While Anna and the Apocalypse explores familiar themes often found in horror, what truly sets it apart is its musical flair and choreography, which shine even amidst the carnage of a zombie-ridden world.
Standout hits, including ‘Turning My Life Around,’ ‘I Will Believe,’ ‘Hollywood Ending,’ and ‘Break Away’, each play a vital role in shaping the story, highlighting the film’s emotional depth and unique tone. From upbeat pop tracks that contrast the chaos of a zombie apocalypse to heartfelt ballads exploring the characters’ struggles, the soundtrack balances lighthearted fun with poignant moments. Each song drives the narrative forward while reflecting the characters’ internal battles, making the music an integral part of the storytelling.
Furthermore, the choreography throughout the film is just as integral to its charm and unique tone. Complemented beautifully by the dynamic and emotive soundtrack, it enhances the storytelling and brings an additional layer of energy and emotion to each scene. From Anna’s uplifting solo in ‘Turning My Life Around,’ as she obliviously dances through the carnage of the zombie apocalypse, to the ensemble performance in ‘Hollywood Ending,’ which reflects the frustration and yet somewhat naive optimism of the group’s hardships, the choreography masterfully mirrors the emotional beats of the story, blending humour, pathos, and energy in equal measure.
Themes
At its core, Anna and the Apocalypse isn’t simply a story of surviving a zombie outbreak but rather a tale of self-discovery and navigating the complexities of human relationships under extraordinary circumstances. The film seamlessly intertwines horror, comedy, and heartfelt moments, creating a unique lens through which these themes are explored.
Like many coming-of-age stories, Anna and the Apocalypse begins with its characters each grappling with their own struggles—whether it’s yearning for independence, dealing with unrequited love, or struggling to find their place in the world. However, these challenges come with opportunities for growth, development, and change. But why a zombie apocalypse?
The zombie outbreak acts as more than just a traditional source of horror. Instead, it serves as a backdrop for the characters’ emotional growth, forcing them to confront their deepest fears, insecurities, and dreams. In the face of life-and-death stakes, the characters experience transformations that wouldn’t have been possible in their everyday lives, making the apocalypse a catalyst for growth rather than just chaos.
Cultural Impact
While serving as a go-to horror film during the Christmas season, Anna and the Apocalypse has solidified its place in the hearts of horror fanatics across the globe. However, the film’s cultural impact extends far beyond its seasonal appeal, carving a niche for itself as a meaningful commentary on universal themes that resonate throughout the year.
One of the most striking examples of this impact came during the COVID-19 pandemic when the song ‘Human Voice’ found renewed relevance. The ensemble song explores themes of isolation, the emotional toll of being disconnected, and the yearning for genuine human connection in an increasingly digital world. These themes became all too relatable during the lockdowns, when millions were cut off from loved ones, forced to rely on screens and technology to maintain any semblance of social interaction.
Final Thoughts
Blending the chaos of a zombie apocalypse with the charm of a holiday tale—and elevated by its standout soundtrack—Anna and the Apocalypse is an unforgettable cinematic experience.
With infectious music, clever choreography, and thoughtful exploration of deeply emotional themes, the film offers a fresh perspective for fans of both horror and the holidays. If you’re looking for something unconventional to add to your festive watchlist—or simply a story that will make you laugh, cry, and sing along—Anna and the Apocalypse is the perfect choice to liven up the most wonderful time of the year.
