“Punching Out” by Jenni Stukin and Ruby Fink is a dark comedy that combines office humor with a zombie apocalypse twist, focusing on Rosie, a young woman excited for her last day at work before opening her dream pet bakery. Alongside her is Clea, a loyal friend harboring unspoken romantic feelings for Rosie. Just as the office begins planning Rosie’s farewell, a radio broadcast announces an alarming zombie outbreak. The quirky office crew—optimistic pacifist Atlas, sarcastic and gruff Melby, bold and witty Marge, and awkward, hopeful Dave—must abruptly shift gears, transforming from lighthearted coworkers into reluctant survivalists. Under Melby’s assertive leadership, they barricade the doors, scramble to create makeshift weapons, and brace themselves for whatever the apocalypse throws their way.
Throughout the chaos, the story finds darkly humorous moments as each character reveals unexpected layers. Atlas, true to his “love warrior” nature, tries to connect with a zombie child, only to meet a grim fate, emphasizing the futility of his pacifist beliefs in such dire circumstances. Meanwhile, Melby and Marge humorously take a moment for intimacy amidst the crisis, and Dave’s attempts to impress Rosie lead him to hide his infection, ultimately forcing Marge to make a tough decision for the group’s safety. As the situation becomes increasingly hopeless, Clea finally confesses her feelings for Rosie, and together, they make a last stand before securing themselves in a bank vault. Leaving a note outside for potential rescuers, they cling to a glimmer of hope they will be found.
Cast/Crew
Written by Jenni Stukin and Ruby Fink
Hannah Edelson, as Rosie
Violet Fink as Clea
Corey McCarey as Dave
Chris Jowers as Atlas
Bethany Murray as Marge
and Jonathon Garret Swenson as Melby, Rob and Zombies
Sound Mixing and Editing by Ruby Fink
Artwork by Violet Fink
SFX from Freesound.org
Music by Shiver and Yeobo
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