George A. Romero’s Living Dead franchise revolutionized the zombie film genre, offering some of the best horror movies of all time and focusing on storytelling and social commentary. Romero, who passed away in July 2017, was known for pushing boundaries in horror cinema by introducing underrepresented voices and characters. This summary highlights his approach to character development and the groundbreaking contributions of Black heroes in his franchise.
Ben (Night of the Living Dead)
Released in 1968, Night of the Living Dead showcased an uncommon occurrence in cinema at the time: a Black hero in a predominantly white cast. Duane Jones played Ben, a resourceful character who not only battled zombies but also faced prejudice from other characters. Romero later revealed that Jones was cast purely based on his talent, and the role was originally written for a white actor. Yet, this choice set a trend for the franchise to feature strong Black characters in pivotal roles.
Peter Washington (Dawn of the Dead)
Dawn of the Dead is often considered the best entry in the franchise, thanks in part to Peter Washington, portrayed by Ken Foree. Peter, a Philadelphia SWAT officer, evolves from a no-nonsense survivor to a caring and strategic leader. He stands out not only in the movie but also in the history of horror cinema for his depth and humanity. Peter’s practical and emotional journey in securing the group’s safety makes him a memorable and beloved character.
John (Day of the Dead)
In Day of the Dead, John, played by Terry Alexander, brings a sense of realism and pragmatism to the narrative. Initially, a nihilistic helicopter pilot, John eventually becomes a hero who saves his peers from certain death. His character represents Romero’s trend of reluctant heroes who rise to the occasion, providing a grounded perspective on survival and heroism.
Big Daddy (Land of the Dead)
Big Daddy, portrayed by Eugene Clarke, is an unconventional hero. As a zombie, he leads an undead army against societal elites, symbolizing rebellion and retribution. His character in Land of the Dead showcases enhanced intellect and determination, positioning him as one of the most iconic zombies in horror history. Despite his undead state, Big Daddy’s mission to challenge the corrupt society makes him a hero in Romero’s universe.
Closing Credits
George A. Romero’s Living Dead series, with its blend of horror, social commentary, and diverse characters, continues to influence the genre. From Ben’s groundbreaking role in Night of the Living Dead to Big Daddy’s rebellious stance in Land of the Dead, these Black heroes added depth and significance to the franchise. As we await the long-anticipated Twilight of the Dead, the legacy of Romero’s socially-conscious storytelling endures.
