Movie Review: Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Synopsis:
"Night of the Living Dead," directed by George A. Romero, is a seminal film in the horror genre that marked the beginning of the modern zombie mythos. Set in rural Pennsylvania, the story unfolds on a bleak and fateful night when an unexplained phenomenon results in the resurrection of the dead as flesh-eating zombies. The narrative follows a small group of survivors who find refuge in a seemingly abandoned farmhouse, where their struggle for survival against the undead becomes a battle not only against the literal monsters outside but also the darker aspects of human nature.
The film opens with a ghastly scene wherein Barbara (Judith O’Dea) and her brother Johnny (Russell Streiner) visit their father’s grave. As Johnny teases Barbara, a mysterious figure approaches, leading them to realise that something is terribly wrong. Johnny is quickly attacked, leaving Barbara to flee in terror. Waking from a daze in the farmhouse, Barbara is soon joined by Ben (Duane Jones), a resourceful and determined man who has escaped an attack. As the sun sets, they are joined by a motley crew: the bickering couple Harry Cooper (Karl Hardman) and his wife Helen (Marilyn Eastman), their daughter Karen (K Yankees), who is suffering from an injury that has made her lethargic, and another pair of survivors, Tom (Keith Wayne) and Judy (Judith O’Dea).
As the night progresses, the group soon realises that they are trapped, surrounded by hordes of the undead who relentlessly try to break into the farmhouse. Tensions rise among the survivors as differing opinions and personalities clash, leading to a crescendo of paranoia, fear, and ultimately, tragedy. Themes of human desperation, societal collapse, and moral ambiguity permeate the film as Romero pushes the boundaries of horror and reflects on the human condition in the face of catastrophe.
List of Actors and Their Characters:
- Duane Jones as Ben
- Judith O’Dea as Barbara
- Karl Hardman as Harry Cooper
- Marilyn Eastman as Helen Cooper
- Keith Wayne as Tom
- Judith Ridley as Judy
- Kyra Schon as Karen Cooper
- Russell Streiner as Johnny
- Charles Craig as a News Reporter
- George A. Romero as a zombie
Analysis:
"Night of the Living Dead" is not merely a horror film; it has evolved into a cultural landmark that challenges viewers to grapple with the uncomfortable realities of society. Romero’s directorial style is raw and gritty, capturing the perils of an isolated situation while layering it with social commentary. The film was revolutionary for its time not only for its portrayal of violence and horror but also for its diverse cast, an unusual choice in 1968, particularly for a lead role. Duane Jones’ performance as Ben is compelling, as he embodies strength, intelligence, and ultimately, the tragic consequences of the human struggle against both external and internal demons.
The cinematography, executed by Romero himself alongside a crew that included the director of photography, was stark and unflinching, encapsulating the suffocating atmosphere inside the farmhouse. The use of black-and-white film enhances the film’s grim reality, creating a timeless essence that allows it to remain impactful decades after its release. Moreover, the chilling score, composed by Romero and performed under his direction, heightens the sense of dread and anticipation as the characters navigate their dire circumstances.
The character dynamics are brilliantly etched out, with each member of the cast representing various societal archetypes. Harry Cooper embodies stubbornness and defeatism, while Ben emerges as a figure of reason and leadership. Tensions rise between Ben and Harry as their conflicting ideologies clash: Ben’s proactive nature versus Harry’s passive and selfish tendencies. The inclusion of a female character in the protagonist role, particularly during the late 1960s, was revolutionary, although Barbara’s eventual descent into trauma was in many ways a commentary on the hardships faced by women during periods of chaos, particularly as society demanded traditional roles of passivity from women.
Romero expertly utilises the backdrop of the zombie apocalypse not just as a means for horror but as a reflection of contemporary American societal issues. The film was released during a period characterised by civil unrest, the Vietnam War, and increasing distrust in authority, and these themes are carefully woven into the narrative. The film’s open ending, which leaves viewers with an unsettling embrace of inevitability, resonates deeply, reflecting how society often fails to address the monsters within and without.
Conclusion:
"Night of the Living Dead" stands as a masterwork of horror cinema, a film that not only terrifies but also sparks crucial conversations about humanity’s darker impulses. Romero’s exploration of societal collapse, human frailty, and moral ambiguity makes the film more than just a fright fest—it’s a poignant reflection of the human condition. With its masterful storytelling, haunting visuals, and compelling character dynamics, it has secured its place in film history, influencing generations of filmmakers and spawning an entire sub-genre of horror.
For its revolutionary impact, thematic depth, and engaging portrayals, I would rate "Night of the Living Dead" a solid 9 out of 10. Its legacy as a cinematic milestone remains unchallenged, and its ability to evoke fear while probing the depths of human nature ensures that it will continue to enchant and horrify audiences for years to come.