MOVIE REVIEW
Walking After Midnight: The Making of “Survival of the Dead”
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 16m
Director(s): Michael Felsher
Where To Watch: exclusively on ScreamBox July 26, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: In the documentary WALKING AFTER MIDNIGHT: THE MAKING OF SURVIVAL OF THE DEAD, director Michael Felsher grants us an all-access pass to the creative project that was George A. Romero's final bow, SURVIVAL OF THE DEAD. This film dissects the craft of blending chilling narratives with sharp societal undercurrents that Romero perfected. Filmed on an isolated island, this production mirrors a society in decay, providing a fresh facade to the classic zombie archetype, enriched with the flavor of old Western duels. Without one of Romero’s unrealized scripts making it into production, this may be the next best thing!

Exploring the intricacies of Romero's work, WALKING AFTER MIDNIGHT offers an enlightening view of the creative challenges Romero faced. The film delves into the thematic elements that Romero championed throughout his career—humanity’s struggle against itself, portrayed through the lens of a zombie apocalypse. Felsher's direction cleverly juxtaposes Romero's philosophical questions with the practicalities of horror filmmaking, giving the audience an inside look at the delicate balance between artistic vision and cinematic execution.

The documentary further explores how Romero’s innovative approach to the horror genre has influenced a generation of filmmakers. Through candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, viewers gain insights into Romero's methodical yet passionate approach to storytelling, where every scare had a purpose, and every shot conveyed a deeper meaning. Including various technical discussions around the use of practical effects, set design, and the challenges of shooting with limited resources adds a layer of appreciation for the craft of filmmaking under constraints.

Moreover, WALKING AFTER MIDNIGHT does not avoid discussing the limitations and setbacks encountered during the production. These moments are presented as obstacles and opportunities for creative problem-solving, showcasing the crew's resilience and ingenuity. The documentary paints a picture of a tight-knit community brought together by a shared commitment to Romero’s vision, emphasizing the collaborative spirit essential to filmmaking.

By the end of WALKING AFTER MIDNIGHT, the viewer is left with a profound understanding of Romero's legacy as a pioneer who redefined the horror landscape. The documentary is a poignant reminder of the power of genre cinema to reflect societal fears and aspirations, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers to the horror genre. I can’t wait to dive into the rest of director Michael Felsher’s extensive horror documentary filmography!

The documentary is filled with raw moments highlighting the grit and perseverance of Romero’s crew, who faced nature’s wrath and budgetary constraints head-on. Interviews interspersed throughout the film add layers of intrigue, revealing the crew's unwavering commitment and innovative techniques, such as the advanced RED camera technology and detailed practical effects, pushing the boundaries of genre filmmaking.

WALKING AFTER MIDNIGHT celebrates Romero’s profound legacy and encapsulates his relentless spirit and dedication to storytelling. It is essential viewing for anyone fascinated by the art of horror cinema and the legacy of a filmmaking legend. This documentary looks into Romero's filmmaking process and immortalizes his influence on contemporary horror, resonating deeply within the cinematic community and beyond.

@screamboxtv

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