All 6 George A. Romero Living Dead movies ranked from worst to best

6. Survival of the Dead

Survival of the Dead takes us to an isolated island where two rival factions, each with their own approach to dealing with the undead, clash in a struggle for survival. George A. Romero’s intention with this film is to examine the themes of tribalism, human conflict, and the lengths to which people will go to preserve their way of life.

Romero’s direction in Survival of the Dead is solid, although some critics and audiences have expressed reservations about the pacing and overall execution of the narrative. The film struggles to find a cohesive balance between its themes and the action sequences, resulting in a somewhat disjointed experience. While Romero’s social commentary remains present, it feels less potent and focused compared to his earlier films.

The characters in Survival of the Dead are serviceable, but they lack the depth and complexity found in Romero’s previous works. With a large ensemble cast, it becomes challenging for the audience to fully invest in their individual journeys. The performances, while competent, do not leave a lasting impression or resonate as strongly as those in Romero’s earlier films.

Critically, Survival of the Dead received a mixed reception, with opinions ranging from appreciation for Romero’s continued exploration of the zombie genre to disappointment in the film’s execution. It is important to note that expectations can heavily influence one’s perception of a film, particularly when it comes to a renowned filmmaker like Romero.