Watch Cargo

Cargo (2017) is a harrowing post-apocalyptic tale that follows the journey of a father, Andy (Martin Freeman), who is infected with a lethal virus, and his infant daughter, Rosie, as they traverse the desolate Australian outback in search of sanctuary. The film, written and directed by Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke, is based on their viral short film of the same name and is a chilling exploration of the human cost of survival.

The story is set in a near-future Australia where a virus has wiped out much of the population. The remaining survivors are either immune or carriers of the deadly pathogen, which is spread through bodily fluids. Andy is one of the infected, but unlike most carriers, he is determined to find a safe haven for his daughter before he succumbs to the virus. After his wife is killed in a violent encounter, Andy sets out on foot with Rosie strapped to his back, leaving behind their community and the makeshift hospital where he was given a 48-hour timeline before he turns.

On their treacherous journey, the father and daughter encounter a variety of characters, some of whom offer aid and others who pose a threat. The most significant of these is Thoomi (Simone Landers), a young aboriginal girl who has lost her father to the virus but remains uninfected. She is both physically and emotionally strong, having learned survival skills from her ancestors, and becomes a crucial ally to Andy and Rosie. However, their alliance is tested when they meet Vic (Anthony Hayes), a deranged and violent man who has created a cult-like community of survivors who are immune to the virus.

Martin Freeman delivers a phenomenal performance as Andy, bringing a depth of emotion to a character who faces almost unimaginable hardship. Freeman's portrayal captures the horror of being infected with a lethal illness while simultaneously trying to protect and care for a vulnerable child. He is both vulnerable and determined, and his chemistry with Landers' Thoomi is authentic and heartwarming.

Simone Landers, a non-professional actor who was discovered for the film while participating in an Aboriginal community theatre group, delivers a standout performance. Her portrayal of Thoomi is powerful, showcasing both the innate wisdom and creativity of the indigenous Australian people and the resilience of a young girl in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

The setting of Cargo is the sparse and unforgiving wilderness of the Australian outback, a harsh environment that emphasizes the peril of the characters' journey. The cinematography by Geoffrey Simpson is stunning, capturing the magnificence of the Australian landscape and the isolation and vulnerability of its inhabitants.

The film tackles themes of survival, grief, and the importance of community in a crisis. It explores the idea that in a world where survival is uncertain, the connections we make with others are what give us the strength to carry on. The bond between Andy and Rosie represents hope for the future and the importance of familial love in a time of crisis.

Overall, Cargo is a must-watch for fans of post-apocalyptic stories and those interested in exploring the complexities of human nature in a crisis. With powerful performances, stunning cinematography, and a moving exploration of the human spirit, Cargo is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Cargo is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 65.