Night of the Living Dead: Layers of Fear and Division

The 1968 horror film Night of the Living Dead has long been recognized for its groundbreaking portrayal of zombies. However, beneath the surface lies a deeper commentary on mass hysteria and the fear of the unknown. This article explores how the film was not just about zombies, but also about the communist threat, mass suspicion, and political division.

What is Night of the Living Dead?

Night of the Living Dead revolves around zombies, but its significance extends far beyond that. The film is a powerful critique of mass hysteria, particularly the fear that anything seemingly out of the ordinary at night could be a zombie. This fear echos the paranoia surrounding the communist threat during the Cold War era.

The main character's mistaken death at the end serves as a poignant reminder of how easily individuals can be vilified or silenced, much like the character Cinna the Poet in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. Despite the explicit lack of any hidden meaning, the film becomes a stark commentary on how fear can lead to the persecution of the innocent.

The Communist Threat and the Foundation of Horror

Horror films from the mid-1950s to the early 1980s often had deep allegorical meanings, especially concerning the communist threat and fears of nuclear war. The film Gojira, or Godzilla (1954), which kickstarted the kaiju genre, addressed fears of radiation and contamination due to the atomic bombings of Japan.

While the communist threat and the Cold War dominated the political climate, the Hollywood blacklists and McCarthy hearings further exacerbated fears of the unknown. This created a fertile ground for horror movies to reflect these anxieties. Night of the Living Dead can be seen as part of this thematic lineage, showcasing the fear of the "other" and the unknown.

Allegories Through the Ages

Thematic films such as Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956/1978) and The Thing (1982) reflect post-WWII anxieties in a more direct manner. In these films, the "other" is not just zombies or extraterrestrial threats, but also potential fifth columnists or communists. Each film delves into the fear of losing one's identity and becoming something unfamiliar.

For instance, in Invasion of the Body Snatchers, the aliens represent a creeping form of alienation and surveillance. Similarly, in The Thing, the terrifying creature embodies the fear of contamination by the unknown. These films mirrored the anxieties of a society facing the existential threat of technological and political upheaval.

Political Division and Modern References

Decades later, Night of the Living Dead continues to resonate with audiences. While the fear of zombies may have shifted, the themes of political division and mass suspicion remain relevant. Modern political rhetoric often employs similar terminologies, pitting one political faction against another, much like the communist threat did in the past.

Today, Democrats and Republicans continue to use language reminiscent of the McCarthy era, questioning loyalty and loyalty oaths. The divide between liberals and conservatives serves as a modern manifestation of the cold war-era tensions. This is why Night of the Living Dead remains a potent metaphor for contemporary fears.

Conclusion

In summary, Night of the Living Dead touches on multiple layers of fear. On the surface, it is a horror film about zombies. Beneath that, it delves into the communist threat, fear of the unknown, and political division. These themes resonate with contemporary cultural anxieties, making the film a timeless piece of cinematic art.