NPR

When An Undead Apocalypse First Swept America In The 'Night Of The Living Dead'

The classic film about zombies — the Night of the Living Dead -- has been restored by the Museum of Modern Art and is being screened around the world in it's 50th anniversary year.
A line of undead 'zombies' walk through a field in the night in a still from the film, 'Night Of The Living Dead,' directed by George Romero, 1968. The film has been reissued for screenings on the 50th anniversary of its release.

A few weeks ago, I drove three hours to reach a screening of the restored print of George Romero's classic black and white zombie film. Sitting in the multiplex theater, I tried to put myself back in the mindset of someone seeing it fresh as the main characters, Barbara and her unnamed brother, find themselves in a cemetery.

"They're coming to get you, Barbara," he teases. "Look, there comes one of them now!"

What they don't know is that an undead apocalypse is about to sweep America and

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min read
From Jailhouse Melodies To Vanishing Salmon, Rejuvenate Your Listening History
Enjoy the spring bloom, get outside, listen to a new podcast! The NPR One team has gathered a few returning favorites as well as some fresh releases from across public media.
NPR3 min read
A Cartoonist's Guide To Navigating 'Normal'
Cartoonist Liana Finck has spent years learning the "rules" of social interactions. She's not convinced. Her comics poke fun at the contradictions and absurdities of daily life and modern parenting.
NPR11 min read
Taylor Swift's 'Tortured Poets' Is Written In Blood
With The Tortured Poets Department, the defining pop star of her era has made an album as messy and confrontational as any good girl's work can get.

Related