In the quote under discussion, George A. Romero, a prominent figure in horror filmmaking, expresses his thoughts on the film "28 Days Later." He differentiates between zombies and the infected characters featured in this movie by pointing out that the latter are not actually dead but rather living individuals who have been affected by an infection or virus. This distinction is crucial because it highlights how the term "zombie" has traditionally referred to reanimated corpses, whereas the beings in "28 Days Later" are alive yet driven by a rage-inducing disease.
Romero's comment delves into the broader context of zombie film categorization and the evolving definition of what constitutes a zombie in cinema. This shift underscores how contemporary filmmakers have adapted the concept of zombies to fit modern storytelling needs, often blurring the lines between traditional undead creatures and individuals affected by various plagues or viruses. Romero’s perspective reflects on the genre's flexibility but also hints at his personal preference for the classic definition of zombies as the reanimated dead. This nuanced view suggests that while Romero respects creative reinterpretation within horror films, he maintains a certain fidelity to the original concept of zombies.
George A. Romero is known for pioneering many conventions in modern zombie films through his seminal work "Night of the Living Dead," released in 1968. His contributions have significantly influenced subsequent filmmakers and writers exploring themes related to societal collapse and human nature under extreme conditions. As a filmmaker deeply rooted in the origins of contemporary zombie cinema, Romero's insights carry considerable weight within the genre.
