The best of George A. Romero: five movies every fan of horror movies should see this Halloween -.

George A. Romero, born in 1940 (and also known as the Godfather of the Dead), redefined the horror genre, especially with his creation of the modern zombie film. With a unique blend of horror and social commentary, Romero’s films explore profound themes, including consumerism, fear and the complexity of human nature. A lifelong fan of storytelling, he created stories that not only horrified audiences but also prompted them to think about social issues. From carnivorous ghosts to psychological thrillers, his work has inspired countless filmmakers and writers, giving him a respected place in film history.

Today we want to take a closer look at five of his most impactful films, ranked from fifth to first. So let’s waste no more time. Here is what we consider the best of George A. Romero.

5. Monkey Shines (1988)

Monkey Shines tells the story of Allan (Jason Beghe), a paralyzed man who is given a specially trained capuchin monkey named Ella to help him in everyday life. However, as the bond between Allan and Ella deepens, the monkey begins to exhibit violent and supernatural behavior, leading to a chilling turn of events.

This film explores themes of dependency, isolation and the consequences of messing with nature. Romero cleverly juxtaposes the innocence of a pet with the potential for malevolence that can arise when humans try to control it. Monkey Shines raises questions about the ethics of genetic experimentation and the dark side of human nature, while delivering suspense and a touch of psychological horror.

4. The Mad Men (1973)

In The Crazies, a toxic chemical leak in a small town causes its inhabitants to become violent and insane. A group of survivors must make their way through the chaos and danger while trying to escape both the insane townspeople and the government, which is trying to contain the outbreak.

Romero uses The Crazies as a critique of government authority and the often misguided attempts to control outbreaks of violence or disease. The film highlights the fear of the unknown and how quickly civilization can collapse when panic breaks out. It also touches on themes of trust and betrayal and shows how social structures can crumble in the face of chaos. Romero’s ability to combine horror with social criticism is on full display here, making The Crazies a thought-provoking watch.

3. Martin (1976)

Martin tells the story of a troubled young man named Martin (John Amplas) who believes he is a vampire. Struggling with his dark urges and the skepticism of those around him, he struggles with his identity and the horror of his actions.

Unlike traditional vampire films, Martin explores the psychological implications of vampirism, blurring the lines between reality and delusion. Romero presents Martin as a complex character who is both a monster and a victim, questioning the nature of evil. The film addresses themes of isolation, alienation and the search for belonging, highlighting how trauma can shape an individual’s psyche. Romero’s take on the vampire mythos makes Martin a unique entry in the genre, with a mix of horror and psychological depth.

2. The Dark Half (1993) and Creepshow (1982).

Both The Dark Half and Creepshow are adaptations of Stephen King’s work, showcasing Romero’s skill in bringing King’s stories to life. The Dark Half follows a writer whose pseudonym takes on a life of its own, leading to horrific consequences, while Creepshow is a horror anthology that weaves together several chilling stories.

As a big fan of Stephen King, I appreciate how Romero has captured the essence of King’s stories. The Dark Half delves into the duality of identity and the creative process, exploring the darker aspects of an author’s psyche. Meanwhile, Creepshow pays homage to the classic horror comics of the past, using humor and camp to convey his fears. Both films demonstrate Romero’s ability to infuse horror with a sense of style and humor, making them stand out in the genre.

1. The saga of the living dead

Romero’s The Living Dead -saga, which began with Night of the Living Dead (1968) and continued with Dawn of the Dead (1978) and Day of the Dead (1985), and more films, revolutionized the zombie genre. The films depict a post-apocalyptic world where the dead rise to consume the living and force survivors to face their worst fears.

The Living Dead Saga is a powerful commentary on various social issues, including consumerism, racism and the collapse of the social order. Dawn of the Dead, for example, cleverly critiques society’s mindless consumerism by setting much of the action in a shopping mall. Romero’s zombies are not just mindless monsters; they serve as a reflection of our own humanity and society’s flaws. The series combines visceral horror with sharp social commentary, making it a landmark in the genre.

And that’s all for today! George A. Romero’s contributions to horror reach far beyond traditional scares; His films challenge us to face uncomfortable truths about society and the human condition. From the introspective nature of Martin to the satirical genius of The Living Dead saga, Romero’s work continues to resonate, shape the horror genre and inspire countless filmmakers. His ability to blend horror with thought-provoking themes has solidified his legacy as one of the most important figures in film history, reminding us that there are profound messages to be discovered even in the face of terror.

Now we’d love to hear about your experiences with the work of George A. Romero! Which of his films do you think are the best? Would you rearrange the list or add others? We can’t wait to read your opinions in the comments!