Zombie High Drama: 'This Is Not a Test' (2025) Review

0:00Without further ado, let's get to my review of this is not a test from 2025. In the film, this is not a test, directed by Adam McDonald and adapted from Courtney Summers young adult novel, we are thrust into a world where a group of teenagers must navigate the chaos of a zombie apocalypse. The movie follows Sloan, played by Olivia Holt. A troubled teen dealing with a tumultuous home life as she and her peers seek refuge in their high school. The premise reminiscent of a horror-infused The Breakfast Club offers a fresh take on the zombie genre by focusing on the dynamics of teenage life amidst the undead chaos. The film opens with a gripping sequence that captures the suddenness of the zombie outbreak setting a tense atmosphere. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that the film struggles to maintain this initial momentum. The narrative is interspersed with flashbacks that

1:03attempt to provide depth to the characters, but ultimately fail to add significant value. The non-linear storytelling disrupts the claustrophobic tension that could have been a hallmark of this single location siege movie. Sloan's character is burdened with a heavy back story, including an abusive father, played by Jeff Roup and a sister who was abandoned her. While these elements aim to add complexity, they often feel overwhelming and under-explored, leaving Sloan as a character defined more by her traumas than her actions. Olivia Holt's portrayal, though earnest, struggles to convey the depth required for such a multifaceted role. The supporting cast, including Carrie, Caution Moore, Reese, Freud Gutierrez, and Trace, Carson McCormack, are introduced with familiar archetypes, but lack the development needed to make them memorable. Carrie's role as the self-appointed leader and Reese's attempts to maintain group cohesion are

2:08overshadowed by the film's inability to flesh out their personalities beyond surface-level traits. Luke McFarlane's brief appearance as a teacher offers a momentary spark, but it is not enough to elevate the overall experience. McDonald's direction, while competent, leans heavily on genre conventions without offering much innovation. The zombie sequences, though visually engaging with solid makeup effects, are marred by shaky camera work that detracts from the tension. The film's pacing suffers as it meanders through its runtime, leading to a climax that feels drawn out and lacking in impact. This is not a test, had the potential to explore the intersection of teenage angst and horror, but it falls short of delivering a compelling narrative. The film's attempt to blend social commentary with genre thrills is undermined by its underdeveloped characters and predictable

3:10plot. While the concept of teenagers facing a zombie apocalypse in a high school setting is intriguing, the execution leaves much to be desired. In the end, the film serves as a reminder that even the most promising setups can falter without the necessary depth and originality to sustain them. And that concludes my review of this is not a test, and I'm giving it two and a half stars out of five. Thanks for listening. If you liked what you've heard, please like, subscribe, and it will be great to see you all next time at Mindset Movie Reviews.