Review of Night of the Living Dead (1968) by Spencer S — 08 Jun 2011

There have been so many sequels and imitations in the zombie genre that not seeing and appreciating this first great stride in horror filmmaking is a crime in and of itself. As in any horror film, there was great stupidity by the victims, but what can be expected of such a simplistic monster? Everything that you suspect happens: the ghouls walk slowly, covered in blood and lesions, a group of strangers hide out in a supposedly safe place, battle for power, and ultimately are picked off one by one.

Culturally, it was good to finally see an African American portrayed as the protagonist without any of the stereotypical exploitation of the 60's and 70's. Much more than horror, the implications of social development weren't on Romero's mind at all, but the obvious nod to consumerism is fully fleshed out in the sequel Dawn of the Dead.

Wonderfully shot and with an expert use of cinematography, there was no simplicity to the film, and even if there wasn't a societal message in the intention, the ending made the entire film meaningful for anyone to see.