“In the Flesh” is a British supernatural drama television series that originally aired on BBC Three from 2013 to 2014. Created by Dominic Mitchell, the show is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a zombie outbreak, known as “Partially Deceased Syndrome” (PDS), has been somewhat managed, and reanimated individuals are reintegrated into society. The series stands out for its thoughtful exploration of themes such as identity, rehabilitation, and societal integration.

Plot and Characters

“In the Flesh” follows Kieren Walker (played by Luke Newberry), a young man who is a “PDS sufferer” or zombie, recently reintroduced into society after undergoing treatment to manage his condition. The show explores his struggles to reconnect with his past life and the challenges of living in a world that still fears and mistrusts the undead.

• Kieren Walker (Luke Newberry): The protagonist, Kieren, faces the emotional and societal challenges of reintegration. Newberry’s performance captures Kieren’s internal conflict and desire for normalcy, making him a sympathetic and complex character.
• Amy Dyer (Emily Bevan): Kieren’s friend and fellow PDS sufferer, Amy’s character provides support and understanding to Kieren, and her relationship with him is central to the narrative.
• Rick Macy (Steve Evets): Kieren’s father, who struggles to come to terms with his son’s condition and the societal stigma attached to PDS sufferers. Evets’ portrayal adds depth to the familial and social dynamics explored in the series.
• Mrs. Walker (Wunmi Mosaku): Kieren’s mother, whose attempts to support her son highlight the emotional toll of dealing with societal prejudice and personal fear.
• Simon (Harry Lloyd): A key character whose actions and motivations significantly impact Kieren’s journey. Simon’s presence introduces themes of radicalism and the darker side of post-apocalyptic society.

Direction and Style

Dominic Mitchell’s direction in “In the Flesh” is marked by its focus on character-driven storytelling and its sensitive handling of social issues.

• Visual Style: The show features a subdued and realistic visual style, reflecting the somber and often grim atmosphere of its post-apocalyptic setting. The use of muted colors and naturalistic lighting enhances the show’s emotional and thematic depth.
• Character Focus: The series emphasizes character development and personal struggles, using the zombie premise as a metaphor for broader societal issues. This focus on personal stories adds emotional weight to the narrative.
• Themes and Issues: The show explores complex themes such as social reintegration, prejudice, mental health, and identity. It uses the PDS condition as a lens through which to examine these issues, providing a thoughtful and nuanced portrayal.

Themes and Legacy

“In the Flesh” tackles several themes through its unique premise:

• Reintegration and Identity: The series delves into the challenges of reintegrating into society after a traumatic event and explores the search for identity in a changed world. Kieren’s journey reflects broader questions of self-acceptance and societal acceptance.
• Prejudice and Stigma: By depicting PDS sufferers as marginalized and feared, the show draws parallels to real-world issues of prejudice and stigma faced by individuals with mental health conditions or disabilities.
• Family and Relationships: The impact of Kieren’s condition on his family and relationships highlights the personal cost of societal issues and the ways in which families cope with extraordinary circumstances.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Thoughtful and sensitive exploration of social issues through a unique zombie premise.
• Strong character development and emotional depth.
• Realistic and nuanced portrayal of societal reintegration and prejudice.
• Compelling performances, particularly by Luke Newberry and Emily Bevan.

Cons:

• The show’s slow pacing and focus on character drama may not appeal to viewers seeking more traditional zombie horror elements.
• Limited scope due to its short run of two seasons, leaving some plot threads unresolved.

Overall, “In the Flesh” is a standout series in the zombie genre for its intelligent and empathetic approach to themes of identity, prejudice, and reintegration. Its character-driven storytelling and thoughtful exploration of complex issues make it a notable and impactful show, despite its relatively short run.