Director Adam MacDonald Discusses "This Is Not A Test"

We sat down with director Adam MacDonald (Backcountry, Pyewacket) to discuss his latest film, This Is Not a Test, ahead of its Canadian theatrical release on February 27. We dive deep into why he chose to adapt Courtney Summers' acclaimed YA novel, the decision to set the apocalypse in the 1990s, and how he balanced the visceral horror of a zombie outbreak with the heavy themes of teenage trauma and depression.Content Warning: This interview includes discussions regarding depression and suicidal ideation Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction00:41 Adapting Courtney Summers’ Novel01:27 Why a Zombie Film?02:04 Balancing Horror with Teenage Trauma03:16 Olivia Holt’s Character Arc (TW: Mental Health)03:54 The 90s Aesthetic & The Age of Electric05:51 Why the High School Setting Works06:56 Where are the Adults?08:01 Sloane and Her Sister (Minor Spoilers)09:11 Adam MacDonald’s Next Project09:50 Is a Sequel Possible?10:27 Final Thoughts & Wrap Up11:26 End Screen