George A. Romero
George A. Romero: Master of the Undead
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: George Andrew Romero
Common Aliases: Godfather of the Dead, Master of Horror
Birth and Death Dates
Born: February 4, 1940
Died: July 16, 2017
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession(s): Filmmaker, Screenwriter, Editor, Actor
Early Life and Background
George Andrew Romero was born in the bustling borough of the Bronx, New York City, to a Cuban father and a Lithuanian-American mother. Growing up in a culturally diverse environment, Romero developed an early interest in the arts, particularly film. His passion for cinema was ignited at the tender age of 11 when he borrowed a movie camera from his uncle. This early exposure to filmmaking set the stage for a career that would redefine the horror genre.
Romero attended Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, where he honed his skills in the arts. After graduating, he began his career by shooting short films and commercials. His early work included segments for the children's television show "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," which showcased his ability to create engaging content across different genres.
Major Accomplishments
George A. Romero's major accomplishments are deeply rooted in his pioneering work in the horror film industry. He is best known for creating the modern zombie genre, a feat that began with his groundbreaking film "Night of the Living Dead" in 1968. This film not only introduced audiences to a new kind of horror but also set the standard for zombie films that followed. Romero's ability to blend social commentary with horror elements made his work both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Throughout his career, Romero continued to push the boundaries of horror with films like "Dawn of the Dead" (1978) and "Day of the Dead" (1985). These films were not only commercial successes but also critical darlings, praised for their innovative storytelling and underlying social critiques. Romero's work earned him numerous accolades, including a Mastermind Award at the Spike TV Scream Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films.
Notable Works or Actions
Romero's filmography is a testament to his creative genius and his ability to captivate audiences with tales of the macabre. "Night of the Living Dead" remains his most iconic work, a film that redefined the horror genre and introduced the world to the concept of the modern zombie. Its success spawned a series of sequels, including "Dawn of the Dead," which is often hailed as one of the greatest horror films ever made.
In addition to his zombie films, Romero directed other notable works such as "Creepshow" (1982), a horror anthology film that paid homage to the EC horror comics of the 1950s. His ability to weave humor and horror together showcased his versatility as a filmmaker. Romero also ventured into television, directing episodes of the horror anthology series "Tales from the Darkside."
Impact and Legacy
George A. Romero's impact on the film industry is immeasurable. He is credited with creating the modern zombie archetype, a cultural phenomenon that has permeated films, television, literature, and video games. His work has inspired countless filmmakers and writers, including notable directors like Quentin Tarantino and Edgar Wright.
Romero's films are celebrated for their social commentary, often addressing issues such as consumerism, racism, and the human condition. His ability to infuse horror with meaningful messages has left a lasting legacy, influencing not only the horror genre but also the broader landscape of cinema.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
George A. Romero is widely quoted and remembered for his profound influence on the horror genre and his ability to craft stories that resonate with audiences on multiple levels. His films are not just about scares; they are about the human experience, exploring themes that are as relevant today as they were when his films were first released.
Romero's quotes often reflect his unique perspective on society and the human psyche, offering insights that are both thought-provoking and timeless. His legacy endures through the countless filmmakers and artists who continue to draw inspiration from his work, ensuring that his contributions to cinema will never be forgotten.
Quotes by George A. Romero
George A. Romero's insights on:
I go to these horror conventions all the time, and these audiences get so deep into it. They've pulled apart every movie fifty ways from Sunday.
To me, the zombies have always just been zombies. They've always been a cigar. When I first made 'Night of the Living Dead,' it got analyzed and overanalyzed way out of proportion. The zombies were written about as if they represented Nixon's Silent Majority or whatever. But I never thought about it that way.
I've never had a zombie eat a brain! I don't know where that comes from. Who says zombies eat brains?
Horror films are the anchovies of the cinema. Either you like them, or you don't.
When you're working with a low budget, the most expensive time is the time spent on the set. The words of the day are, 'Get off the set as quickly as possible,' and so CG enables you to do that.
Most of my stuff was sort of of-the-time. 'The Crazies' was, basically, we were angry about Vietnam, and it had a reason for being.