The Chronological Journey of George A. Romero's 'Living Dead' Films

George A. Romero, the pioneering horror filmmaker, has left an indelible mark on the genre with his Living Dead series. Each installment of the trilogy is a distinctive entry in the horror canon, reflecting Romero's evolving themes and techniques. This piece traces the development of the series from its inception to its more mature installments, highlighting the socio-political commentary and artistic innovations that define these films.

Night of the Living Dead (1968)

Romero's debut in the series, Night of the Living Dead, was a groundbreaking piece that broke new ground in horror filmmaking. Inspired by Richard Matheson's novel I Am Legend, Romero's film introduced unprecedented visuals of undead ghouls attacking and feasting on human flesh. This was the first cinematic portrayal of zombies as we recognize them today. The film's stark socio-political undertones were a result of its release during one of the most tumultuous years in American history, 1968. The real-time news broadcasts and the absence of a romantic subplot underscored the paranoia and societal unrest of the period.

Dawn of the Dead (1978)

Just ten years after Night of the Living Dead, Romero delivered the sequel Dawn of the Dead, which, despite some watered-down elements, further explored the theme of societal decay. The film is set in a shopping mall, a commentary on the consumerist culture of the time, and its graphic nature made it a cult hit. The social critique continues with the portrayal of a militarized society in conflict with the living and the dead. This film not only stood out for its groundbreaking special effects, but also for its unapologetic and nihilistic approach, setting the standard for horror films to come.

Day of the Dead (1985)

The third installment, Day of the Dead, marked a departure from the more action-oriented narrative of Dawn of the Dead. Set in a underground bunker, the film delved into the psychological and social dynamics of the survivors, blending practical effects with social commentary. The film features the character 'Bub', a seemingly human zombie, which offers a new perspective on the nature of the undead and life. The societal critique is evident in the power struggles and the emergence of a feudal-like hierarchy within the bunker. The film's dark humor and graphic violence make it a versatile and thought-provoking piece in the Living Dead series.

Land of the Dead (2005)

The final film in the trilogy, Land of the Dead, serves as a commentary on the societal decay and the emergence of a new feudal order in a walled city. The plot involves political intrigue and the rise of a de facto emperor, further exploring the themes of social stratification and the struggle for control. The advanced state of the zombie plague and the semi-aware zombies add a new layer to the series, expanding on the possibilities of the horror genre.

Other Installments and Post-Romero Films

In addition to the trilogy, there were two other entries in the series, Diary of the Dead (2007) and Survival of the Dead (2009), which, while well-regarded by fans, received mixed critical reviews. Other noteworthy films in the franchise include the 1964 Italian production Last Man on Earth, the 1971 film The Omega Man, and the 1990 remake of Night of the Living Dead. The 2007 I Am Legend starring Will Smith bears the source novel's name but diverges from Romero's take, focusing more on the lone survivor narrative.

Conclusion

The Living Dead films by George A. Romero are more than just a series of horror movies. Each film stands as a testament to social commentary, technical innovation, and genre-defining narrative techniques. From the groundbreaking Night of the Living Dead to the more socially sauve Day of the Dead, and the dystopian Land of the Dead, Romero's films continue to influence and inspire the genre.