George Romero's Inspiration for Zombific Terror: An In-depth Analysis

George Romero, the legendary horror filmmaker, is renowned for his contribution to the zombie genre. He has left an indelible mark on the world of horror with films like 'Dawn of the Dead' and 'Night of the Living Dead.' But what inspired Romero to create the flesh-eating zombies we know today? Was it a story he heard, or did it emerge from his own imagination? This article delves into the various influences that shaped Romero's vision and placed the zombie subgenre firmly in the cultural consciousness.

Horror Comics and the Birth of Creepshow

Like many children, George Romero was captivated by horror comics in his youth. These comics, often macabre and disturbing, laid the groundwork for his fascination with the supernatural and the macabre. It was this love of horror comics that eventually led to his collaboration with fellow horror enthusiast Stephen King, resulting in 'Creepshow,' a collection of short stories and graphic illustrations that combined their fears and imaginations.

'Creepshow' was not just a collaboration; it was a project that embraced the shared love of horror in both Romero and King. The original graphic novel, while still the best, has since spawned a franchise that includes sequels and even a television series. Despite being part of this franchise, the concept of the flesh-eating zombie that lurches around is distinctly Romero's and has been acknowledged by other filmmakers like Robert Kirkman (creator of 'The Walking Dead') in his homage to Romero's work.

Religious Influences and the Apocalypse

Romero's religious background also played a significant role in his creation of zombies. Growing up in a Catholic family, he was exposed to the Bible and the Book of Revelation, which describes the end of times with great detail. This text is rife with graphic depictions of horrors, including the trials and tribulations inflicted upon those who support the Antichrist. Specifically, the Book of Revelations and the Apocrypha detail the 21 judgements thrown at humanity by God, including the case of individuals who are forced to witness the horrors they have helped create, unable to die until the judgements are complete.

Romero drew from these religious texts to create a world where the undead are not just mindless creatures, but participants in a cosmic battle against evil. This religious influence adds a layer of depth and moral complexity to Romero's work, making the zombies not just monsters, but thatchings that reveal humanity's flaws.

Political and Social Commentary

Beyond religious inspiration, Romero's films also contain a strong political and social commentary. His work often critiques societal issues, from racial inequality to class segregation. In his film 'Dawn of the Dead,' Romero uses the backdrop of a consumerist culture and a shopping mall to explore larger themes of society's flaws.

The film poses a dystopian vision of the future where the dead rise from the cities, and people retreat to the suburbs in search of safety. This narrative not only critiques the consumerist culture but also warns of the dangers of unchecked societal progression. Romero's alarmist views about the potential perils of space exploration in 'Night of the Living Dead' foreshadow concerns about biological warfare and the unintended consequences of human actions.

Moreover, Romero's films challenge viewers to question the status quo and reflect on the world they live in, making them not just horror movies but vehicles for social critique. The idea that 'we are the real zombies' resonates deeply, especially in the context of 'The Walking Dead' (TWD) series, which has taken this concept to new heights. TWD uses the zombie apocalypse to highlight the psychological and moral struggles of the human condition, thus extending Romero's commentary and engaging with contemporary issues of human nature and ethics.

Conclusion

George Romero's inspiration for creating zombies comes from a rich tapestry of sources, including horror comics, religious texts, and political and social issues. His films are not just entertainments but profound explorations of the human condition and societal issues. As a result, the legacy of Romero's work continues to influence the horror genre and popular culture, ensuring that zombies remain a potent symbol of both fear and reflection.