This is one of those very rare feature films whose runtime is too long for a short but pretty short for a feature, but given its very low budget origins and lo-fi set-up, its probably a sensible length overall. It's a post-apocalyptic zombie film in which two characters from opposing viewpoints in life are thrust together for survival; this leads to the usual friction you may expect. Given the low budget origins, the set-up is unsurprising pretty limited with that good old setting used in many a micro-budget feature, the underground bunker providing the backdrop. The cast is very small too, with only the two leads really having much to do. The restrictive nature of the production does result in a movie which does have a stagey, theatrical nature to it. Nevertheless, there is a bit of imagination here and the effects were quite good. This small-scale film was always going to be limited but it does show some ambition and is one which should offer something to those who appreciate this sub-genre overall.

**Disclaimer - I have a friend who works with a person involved in this production***

When it comes to micro-budget indie movies from younger filmmakers, I think the main thing you need to look for is potential. I didn't ask what the budget for Friend of the World was, but to the movie's credit I spent most of the short 50-minute run time not thinking about the movie's budget. The movie deals with some lofty ideas but does so on a micro, human level. Regarding the film's budget, the script is very budget-friendly in that most of the story takes place with two characters, in settings which are conducive to money saving measures. Luckily, these decisions don't bring down the viewing experience. In fact, some of the FX in the movie hit above the budget's weight class. In smaller movies like this a special effect can be the kiss of death with audiences who are used to seeing CGI that could cost a million dollars for 30 seconds of screen time. But the special effects in this are tasteful, and most importantly, not distracting.

The cinematography overall is quite proficient. There are a few standout shots which are excellent. There is a scene between The General and (the cleverly named) Diane Keaton in which The General delivers his lines within the darkness, with very little definition in his facial features. The shot is expressive, moody and well done. A lot of times the camera is taken out of the actor's way and let's them just do their thing. But, there are quite a few images that standout within the movie.

The story is a dystopian future which allows societal themes to be explored. There is an element of the undead but the story does a good job of not leaning into tropes. There are also some experimental flourishes that could be divisive to some viewers, but mostly they seemed to work for me.

With smaller budgets like this the first victim is usually the acting. The two leads in this are pretty solid. The standout is Alexandra Slade's facial acting at the conclusion. Without dialogue she shows a loss and heartbreak that makes me hope she continues to find bigger acting roles.

As stated in the beginning, with indies we are looking for potential. I think this movie shows filmmakers with a lot of promise. I'm looking forward to seeing them grow and hope they are able to increase their budgets as I'd be interested in seeing what these individuals could produce.