Il Cho’s film #Alive, released in 2020, is a gripping South Korean zombie thriller that merges elements of horror and survival drama. The story centers around Oh Joon-woo, a young man played by Yoo Ah-in, who finds himself trapped in his apartment as a mysterious virus rapidly spreads across Seoul, turning infected individuals into ferocious, flesh-eating zombies.

Isolated and cut off from all communication, Joon-woo struggles to survive with dwindling supplies and growing despair. His situation takes a turn when he discovers another survivor, Kim Yoo-bin, portrayed by Park Shin-hye, who is also trapped in her apartment across the courtyard. Despite the physical distance, the two forge a connection and work together to stay alive, sharing resources and devising escape plans while navigating the constant threat of the infected.

#Alive is noted for its intense atmosphere, claustrophobic tension, and strong performances by its lead actors. The film explores themes of isolation, human resilience, and the importance of connection in the face of catastrophic events. Il Cho’s direction effectively combines suspenseful sequences with emotional depth, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with the universal fear of being alone and the hope of finding companionship in dire circumstances.

The movie received positive reviews for its fresh take on the zombie genre, focusing more on character development and psychological tension rather than sheer gore and action. It became particularly relevant during its release amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, drawing parallels to the real-world experience of quarantine and social isolation.