Zombie Outbreak As Media Metaphor Hits Hard

Read Time:4 Minute, 12 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Diary of the Dead
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Genre: Horror, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 2007, 2024 Walmart Exclusive Steelbook
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director(s): George A. Romero
Writer(s): George A. Romero
Cast: Michelle Morgan, Joshua Close, Shawn Roberts, Amy Lalonde, Joe Dinicol, Scott Wentworth, Philip Riccio
Where To Watch: available now, order your Walmart Exclusive copy here: www.walmart.com

RAVING REVIEW: George A. Romero's DIARY OF THE DEAD offers a clever twist on the zombie genre by delving into the murky waters of media manipulation, reflecting the unsettling realities of our digital age. This edition of Romero's iconic series uses found footage not just for scares but as a critique of how crises are presented in the media, blurring the line between reality and fiction with chilling effectiveness.

The narrative centers around Jason and Debra, portrayed with gritty realism by Joshua Close and Michelle Morgan. They start crafting a horror film but soon find themselves documenting a real-life zombie apocalypse. This pivot not only amplifies the suspense but also serves as a meta-commentary on the role of creators in shaping public perception during times of crisis. The transition from a controlled film set to chaotic real-world horror provides a stark backdrop for exploring the themes of trust and misinformation.

Romero’s portrayal of a society unraveling in the wake of a zombie outbreak serves as a narrative vehicle to explore broader fears, particularly those post-9/11. The film is punctuated with encounters against crumbling institutions like an abandoned hospital and a negligent National Guard, symbolizing the failure of systems in which we place our trust. These encounters highlight the fragility of societal structures and the thin veneer of security that can be ripped away in times of chaos.

While DIARY OF THE DEAD is lauded for its bold narrative and innovative use of the found footage format, it is not without its flaws. The integration of various media sources—meant to enhance the authenticity of the experience—sometimes breaks the immersion, reminding viewers of the film's construct rather than its narrative. Moreover, the film occasionally stumbles with its voice-over narrations, which can come off as intrusive rather than enriching.

The film also struggled at times regarding its character development, with some performances failing to engage with the complex themes presented fully. Despite these shortcomings, Romero’s film remains a compelling blend of horror and critical social commentary, notable for its poignant scenes that use zombies as metaphors for societal desensitization to violence.

DIARY OF THE DEAD delves into the human psyche, examining the spectrum of human behavior during crises. The film poignantly illustrates the collapse of societal structures and the moral decisions individuals face in the wake of disaster. It questions whether people can rise above their darkest impulses to work together or if the instinct to survive overrides the more significant needs of the community. This exploration adds a rich, ethical dimension to the narrative, making Romero's critique even more relevant today, where the lines between self-preservation and collective responsibility are often blurred. The COVID-19 pandemic proved that many could not look beyond their own personal comfort to help protect others.

DIARY OF THE DEAD does not reach the iconic status of Romero’s earlier films. Still, it contributes a welcome addition to the zombie canon by inviting audiences to question the influence of media on our perception of reality. It presents a significant, albeit imperfect, exploration of our contemporary struggles with discerning truth in the information age.

SPECIAL FEATURES
Feature commentary by Writer-Director George A. Romero, Director of Photography Adam Swica, and Editor Michael Doherty
For the Record: Feature-Length Documentary on the Film’s Cast, Crew & Creation
The Roots: The Inspiration for the Film
The First Week: A Visit to the Set
Familiar Voices: Cameo Outtakes
MySpace Contest Winners: 5 Zombie Films from Filmmaker Fans
Character Confessionals

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]

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