All 6 George A. Romero Living Dead movies ranked from worst to best
3. Diary of the Dead
Diary of the Dead introduces a unique narrative approach by presenting the story as a found footage film, a technique that had gained popularity in the horror genre at the time, despite it falling out of favor in recent years. The film follows a group of college students who document their experiences as they navigate the chaos of a zombie outbreak. Through their cameras, we are invited to witness the horror firsthand and gain insight into their perspective on the unfolding events.
Romero’s intention with Diary of the Dead was to explore the power of media and technology in shaping our understanding of reality during crisis situations. He raises pertinent questions about the role of the media in disseminating information and the potential for manipulation and distortion of truth. This commentary on the influence of media resonates strongly, particularly in an era where information overload and social media dominance have become the norm.
In terms of execution, Diary of the Dead maintains a sense of urgency and immediacy throughout. The handheld camera technique immerses the viewer in the chaos and heightens the tension. However, the found footage style can be divisive, as some viewers may find it jarring or even nauseating at times. Romero’s choice to rely on amateur actors for the main roles adds to the documentary-like authenticity, although it does result in uneven performances that can detract from the overall impact and is not limited to some dialogue choices that were made in the film that almost seem cringe-worthy at times.
In terms of visual effects and makeup, Diary of the Dead does not reach the same heights as Romero’s earlier works. The limited budget and time constraints are evident, and the quality of the zombie makeup and practical effects falls short of the standard set by Romero’s previous films. However, it is worth noting that Romero’s focus on character development and social commentary compensates to some extent for the technical limitations.
Critics and audiences alike have expressed mixed reactions to Diary of the Dead. While some appreciate Romero’s exploration of new narrative techniques and his continued social commentary, others feel that the film lacks the innovative spirit and impact of his earlier works. It is important to note that expectations can play a significant role in shaping one’s perception of a film, especially when it comes to a revered director like Romero.
Diary stands as an ambitious attempt by George A. Romero to reinvent his iconic zombie franchise through the found footage genre. While it may not achieve the same level of excellence as his earlier works, the film’s exploration of media influence and its timely social commentary offers valuable insights. Whether one fully embraces the found footage style or finds it detracting, Diary of the Dead remains an intriguing entry in Romero’s filmography, showcasing his willingness to experiment and his enduring fascination with the zombie apocalypse.