Written by Kathlin Arce
Modified & Updated: 14 May 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
The Return of the Living Dead is a cult classic horror film that has captivated audiences since its release. Directed by Dan O’Bannon, this 1985 film has gained a dedicated following for its unique take on the zombie genre. Filled with thrills, chills, and plenty of dark humor, The Return of the Living Dead takes viewers on a wild ride into a world overrun by hungry, brain-craving zombies.
In this article, we’ll uncover 44 fascinating facts about The Return of the Living Dead, diving into the behind-the-scenes details that make this movie a beloved piece of cinematic history. From casting surprises to special effects secrets, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the making of this iconic film. So, grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready to learn some spine-tingling facts about The Return of the Living Dead!
Key Takeaways:
- “The Return of the Living Dead” is a 1985 horror-comedy film that redefined zombie lore, introduced the “zom-com” genre, and continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of horror, comedy, and social commentary.
- This cult classic movie blends horror and comedy, introduces new aspects to zombie lore, and has had a significant influence on pop culture, inspiring references, parodies, and fan conventions.
The Origins
The movie “The Return of the Living Dead” is a 1985 horror-comedy film directed by Dan O’Bannon.
Zombie Comedy
This film is known for blending elements of horror and comedy, creating a unique subgenre known as “zom-com.”
Inspired by Romero
“The Return of the Living Dead” was inspired by the classic zombie films of George A. Romero, particularly “Night of the Living Dead.”
A Different Take
Unlike Romero’s films, “The Return of the Living Dead” introduced the concept of zombies being able to run and communicate.
Popular Cult Favorite
Over the years, the film has gained a cult following and is considered a classic among horror movie enthusiasts.
Box Office Success
Despite its low budget, “The Return of the Living Dead” was a financial success, grossing over $14 million worldwide.
Iconic Poster
The film’s promotional poster, featuring a half-decayed zombie rising from the ground, has become iconic in the horror genre.
Memorable Soundtrack
The movie is known for its punk rock soundtrack, featuring bands like The Cramps, The Damned, and T.S.O.L.
The Tarman Zombie
One of the most memorable zombies in the film is the Tarman, known for his slimy, decaying appearance and insatiable hunger for brains.
Fourth Wall Breaking
The Return of the Living Dead” breaks the fourth wall and acknowledges the existence of George A. Romero’s zombie films within its own narrative.
Velma is the Heart
Velma, played by actress Linnea Quigley, is considered the heart of the film, capturing the audience’s sympathy as she falls victim to the zombie outbreak.
The Trioxin Controversy
The movie introduces the fictional chemical compound Trioxin, which reanimates the dead. This concept sparked controversy and debate among scientific communities.
The Iconic Brain Scene
The film showcases a memorable scene where a split-faced zombie asks for “more brains.” This scene has become a pop culture reference.
Bizarre Dialogue
“The Return of the Living Dead” is known for its quirky and memorable dialogue, filled with one-liners and dark humor.
The Living Dead Trilogy
The success of the film led to the creation of two sequels, forming the “Living Dead” trilogy: “Return of the Living Dead Part II” in 1988 and “Return of the Living Dead 3” in 1993.
Influence on Pop Culture
The Return of the Living Dead” has had a significant influence on pop culture, inspiring various references and parodies in films, TV shows, and music.
Subversive Social Commentary
Hidden beneath the surface, the film subtly comments on consumerism, military experimentation, and the consequences of human actions.
Daniel Pearl’s Cinematography
The film’s cinematography by Daniel Pearl adds to the eerie and atmospheric tone, capturing the chaos and terror of the zombie outbreak.
Legacy of the Rave Scene
The film’s opening sequence, set in a graveyard, has become iconic and foreshadows the rave scene that becomes prevalent in later parts of the movie.
Resurgence of Zombie Films
The Return of the Living Dead” helped revitalize the zombie genre, paving the way for the future success of films like “Shaun of the Dead” and “Zombieland.
The “Tarman Shuffle” Dance
The zombie known as Tarman performs a distinctive dance known as the “Tarman Shuffle.” This dance has become a fan favorite and is often imitated.
Influential Makeup Effects
The film’s makeup effects, created by William Munns, set a new standard for zombie creatures in movies, inspiring future horror films.
A Meta Opening
The film begins with a meta opening sequence where a character named Frank tells the story of the events portrayed in the movie to his co-worker, Freddy.
References to Other Films
The Return of the Living Dead” includes references to other horror films, such as The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Dawn of the Dead, further bridging the connection between different zombie universes.
Tromaville Connection
Actor Tom Matthews, who plays the character Freddy in “The Return of the Living Dead,” also starred in Troma Entertainment’s cult classic film “The Toxic Avenger.”
Controversial Ending
The film’s original ending was deemed too bleak by test audiences, leading to a revised ending that provided a glimmer of hope for the surviving characters.
Critical Reception
Upon release, “The Return of the Living Dead” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its inventiveness, while others criticized its humor and gore.
Fandom Conventions
The film’s enduring popularity has led to the creation of fan conventions dedicated to “The Return of the Living Dead” and its sequels.
An 80s Time Capsule
The film perfectly captures the essence of 1980s culture, from its fashion to its music, making it a beloved time capsule for fans of that era.
The Punk Subculture
The Return of the Living Dead” showcases the punk subculture of the 1980s, with its rebellious attitude and distinctive fashion sense.
Dynamic Characters
The film features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations, adding depth to the story.
Unforgettable Quotes
The Return of the Living Dead” is filled with memorable quotes, such as “Send more paramedics” and “Do you want to party? It’s party time!” that have become iconic lines in the horror genre.
The Cemetery Setting
A significant portion of the film takes place in a cemetery, providing a haunting backdrop for the zombie chaos that ensues.
Satirical Elements
The film intelligently satirizes societal norms and expectations, using the absurdity of a zombie outbreak to highlight the flaws in human behavior.
Quintessential Halloween Viewing
“The Return of the Living Dead” has become a quintessential horror film to watch during the Halloween season, offering a perfect blend of scares and laughs.
The Chemical Warehouse
The movie’s main location is a chemical warehouse, where the outbreak initially occurs due to an accidental release of Trioxin gas.
Interactive DVD Extras
The DVD release of the film includes interactive extras that allow viewers to explore the sets and dive deeper into the making of the movie.
The Controversial Split
The film’s split storyline, following two groups of characters, divided opinions among viewers and critics, with some praising the dynamic storytelling and others finding it distracting.
The Dynamic Duo
Actors Clu Gulager and James Karen, who play Burt and Frank in the movie, deliver standout performances and form a memorable duo.
The Zombie Tar Pits
In one scene, the characters attempt to destroy the zombies by capturing them in a warehouse full of tar. However, this plan backfires, leading to more chaos.
The Gory Special Effects
“The Return of the Living Dead” features impressive practical special effects, showcasing gruesome zombie kills and dismemberments.
The Environmental Message
Beneath its horror and comedy elements, the film subtly delivers a message about the dangers of mishandling hazardous chemicals and the potential consequences of human actions on the environment.
A New Take on Zombie Lore
The Return of the Living Dead” introduced several new aspects to zombie lore, such as the need for brains to alleviate pain and the concept of zombies being able to feel and express emotions.
Enduring Popularity
Even after more than three decades, “The Return of the Living Dead” continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of horror, comedy, and social commentary, solidifying its status as a beloved cult classic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Return of the Living Dead is a cult classic that revolutionized the zombie genre. With its blend of horror, comedy, and social commentary, the movie has captivated audiences for decades. From its iconic soundtrack to its memorable characters, this film continues to leave a lasting impact on both fans and filmmakers alike. Whether you’re a die-hard horror enthusiast or just looking for a fun and entertaining movie night, The Return of the Living Dead is definitely worth checking out.
FAQs
Q: Who directed The Return of the Living Dead?
A: The movie was directed by Dan O’Bannon.
Q: When was The Return of the Living Dead released?
A: The film was released on August 16, 1985.
Q: Is The Return of the Living Dead a sequel?
A: No, The Return of the Living Dead is not a direct sequel to George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead. It is a standalone film with its own storyline.
Q: What is the rating of The Return of the Living Dead?
A: The movie has an R rating due to its graphic violence, strong language, and adult themes.
Q: How did The Return of the Living Dead impact the zombie genre?
A: The Return of the Living Dead introduced the concept of zombies craving brains, which became a popular trope in future zombie movies and TV shows.
Q: What is the significance of the movie’s soundtrack?
A: The Return of the Living Dead is known for its punk rock soundtrack, featuring songs from bands like The Cramps and The Damned. The soundtrack has become iconic and is a defining aspect of the film’s cult status.
Q: Are there any notable actors in The Return of the Living Dead?
A: The film features performances from actors like Clu Gulager, James Karen, and Linnea Quigley, who have become fan favorites within the horror genre.
If you're a fan of iconic figures and cult classic films, check out these fascinating articles. Dive into the world of punk rock with our captivating facts about Johnny Rotten, frontman of the legendary Sex Pistols. For horror enthusiasts, our piece on "The House of the Devil" offers a thrilling look at this 1980s horror gem. Lastly, explore the origins of "Alien" creator Dan O'Bannon in our article on his directorial debut, "Dark Star."
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