On November 1, 1968, the groundbreaking horror film "Night of the Living Dead" was released in the United States. Directed by George A. Romero, this low-budget, independent film revolutionized the zombie genre and had a profound impact on the horror movie industry.
The film follows a group of characters who barricade themselves in a rural farmhouse to survive an onslaught of reanimated corpses. The story is a commentary on the social and political issues of the 1960s, such as racial inequality and the Vietnam War.
"Night of the Living Dead" introduced several iconic elements that would become staples of the zombie genre, such as the slow-moving, flesh-eating ghouls and the post-apocalyptic setting. The film's graphic violence and bleak ending were shocking for its time, challenging the conventions of traditional horror cinema.
One of the most notable aspects of the film was its casting of Duane Jones, an African American actor, as the lead character, Ben. This was a bold decision during a time of racial segregation and inequality in the United States. Ben's character defied stereotypes and emerged as the hero of the story, making a powerful statement about race relations.
Despite its low budget and initial mixed reviews, "Night of the Living Dead" grossed over $30 million worldwide and garnered critical acclaim over time. It spawned numerous sequels, remakes, and inspired countless other films in the horror and zombie genres.
In 1999, the Library of Congress selected "Night of the Living Dead" for preservation in the National Film Registry, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. The film's impact on popular culture is still felt today, cementing its status as a landmark in cinema history.
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