Cargo (2017) is an Australian post-apocalyptic horror-drama film directed by Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke, based on their 2013 short film of the same name. The film stars Martin Freeman in the lead role and is set in a world ravaged by a zombie apocalypse. Unlike typical zombie films, Cargo is more of a survival drama focusing on parental love, sacrifice, and hope in the face of despair.

Plot Summary:

Set in the Australian outback, Cargo follows Andy (Martin Freeman), a father who is trying to protect his infant daughter, Rosie, after a viral outbreak has decimated humanity and turned people into zombies. The virus takes 48 hours to completely turn a person after infection, and when Andy’s wife is bitten and turns, Andy is left alone to care for Rosie. Tragedy strikes again when Andy is also bitten, leaving him with only two days to find a safe place for his daughter before he succumbs to the virus.

In his search, Andy encounters various survivors, including a young Indigenous girl named Thoomi (Simone Landers), who is trying to save her infected father using traditional Indigenous methods. As Andy’s infection progresses, he must rely on Thoomi’s help while struggling with the limited time he has left to secure his daughter’s safety. His journey is one of desperation, resilience, and deep emotional stakes as he navigates the dangers of both the infected and hostile survivors in the harsh environment.