George A. Romero’s now classic film was a pleasure to rewatch all these years later, as you can still see why it shocked so many viewers.
Everyone knows the story….a group of disparate people try to survive when they are attacked by a horde of flesh eating zombies.
In it’s day, NOTLD said a lot about society. It subtly comments on racism, sexism and the state of things, all against the backdrop of a quaint little farmhouse miles from civilisation.
It features great performances, and whilst everyone remembers a tougher more modern version of Barbara in the 1990 remake, I was surprised to see that the character was not the total gibbering wreck that I had remembered.
Judith O’Dea was tough in her own way and rightfully deserves her place in the Scream Queen hall of fame.
The lighting and locations add a lot to the production, and the ending still has the power to shock more than 35 years on.
OVERALL SUMMARY
NOTLD is recognised as one of the most important cinematic works ever, and rightfully so. I urge you to rewatch this and remember why it is respected by so many.