What caused the zombies in “Night of the Living Dead”? This question has intrigued fans and scholars alike since the film’s release in 1968. Directed by George A. Romero, “Night of the Living Dead” is often regarded as the quintessential zombie film, and its depiction of the undead has left an indelible mark on popular culture. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of the zombies and delve into the film’s subtext, examining the societal and environmental factors that might have contributed to this apocalyptic scenario.
The origins of the zombies in “Night of the Living Dead” are never explicitly explained within the film itself. However, Romero has offered several theories over the years, which have sparked debates and speculations among fans. One of the most widely accepted explanations is that the zombies are the result of a scientific experiment gone awry.
In the film, the government is depicted as conducting secret experiments in a rural Pennsylvania town. One of these experiments involves injecting people with a serum designed to cure a flu-like virus. However, the serum has unintended consequences, causing the infected individuals to become aggressive, flesh-eating zombies. This explanation aligns with the Cold War-era anxieties about government secrecy and the potential dangers of unregulated scientific research.
Another theory posits that the zombies are a result of a biological weapon developed by the government. This weapon is designed to spread rapidly among the population, causing widespread panic and chaos. The film’s portrayal of the government as a faceless entity, enforcing martial law and using military force to control the situation, supports this interpretation.
Moreover, environmental factors may have played a role in the zombie outbreak. The film’s setting in a rural area, where the population is isolated from the outside world, suggests that the virus could have originated from a nearby laboratory or research facility. The isolation of the town also emphasizes the importance of community and the need for cooperation in the face of a crisis.
The subtext of “Night of the Living Dead” delves into deeper societal issues, such as racism and the class struggle. The film’s protagonist, Ben, is African American, and the other characters are predominantly Caucasian. This racial dynamic is evident in the film’s portrayal of the zombies, who are depicted as having a more primitive, animalistic nature. This raises questions about the relationship between race, violence, and the breakdown of society.
In conclusion, the cause of the zombies in “Night of the Living Dead” remains a topic of debate. While the film never explicitly reveals the true origins of the undead, it offers several plausible explanations, including a government experiment, a biological weapon, and environmental factors. Additionally, the film’s subtext delves into societal issues, making it a timeless and thought-provoking piece of cinema.
