Night of the Living Dead (1990)
Tom Savini was instrumental in bringing this remake to life. His expertise in special effects and makeup was unparalleled at the time, and his attention to detail is evident throughout the film. Savini’s passion project not only resulted in a visually stunning film but also helped to ensure that the story remained true to the original.
The 1990 remake does indeed benefit from its more cohesive tone, which has been praised by and help find fans old and new. By making subtle adjustments to the narrative, Savini and writer George A. Romero were able to create a sense of continuity with the rest of the franchise, particularly in contrast to the tonal shifts between Night of the Living Dead and Dawn of the Dead.
Stangers Barbra and Ben take refuge from an outbreak of flesh-eating zombies inside a remote farm house. Inside, they discover the Cooper family and a young couple, Tom and Judy, hiding in the cellar. Soon an internal conflict over the best strategy for survive for survival errupts whilst the Zombies gather outside… in colour.
While some characters are indeed improved upon in this remake, others suffer from inconsistent development. The case of Cooper is particularly egregious, as his original potential for redemption is squandered by the film’s reliance on a one-dimensional villainous portrayal. This can be frustrating for viewers who appreciate looking for more complex characterisations.
One area where this remake excels is in its increased gore and action. The 1990 version has a relentless pace that keeps the audience engaged, with an emphasis on visceral, intense sequences that amplify the sense of tension and fear. The latest release on 4K including a number of new sequences to expand on this makes it feel like a more thrilling ride than the original and the 1969 version.
For many fans, including the author, this remake serves as a new introduction to the Night of the Living Dead franchise. While some horror purists may dismiss this version as inferior to the original, I argue that it’s just as effective in conveying and updating the spirit of the series. Its pacing and visuals make for a more entertaining experience, and its attention to detail ensures that the story remains faithful to Romero’s vision.
While the original has a certain charm and historical significance, the 1990 remake offers a fresh take on the material with improved production values and more cohesive storytelling. Ultimately, it comes down to personal taste, but both versions have their merits.
The 1990 remake of Night of the Living Dead has become an important entry in the franchise’s history, showcasing how to successfully update a classic while maintaining its core essence. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent remakes and reimaginings, highlighting the importance of respecting the original material while adding new twists and surprises.
This version of Night of the Living Dead is an exemplary example of how to remake a classic without sacrificing its soul. With Tom Savini’s creative vision at the helm, this film delivers a visceral, entertaining experience that honors the original while introducing it to a new generation of fans.
The 1990 film Night of the Living Dead recently received an exceptional UHD release. This edition is particularly noteworthy as it includes a new edit overseen by director Tom Savini, bringing the film closer to his initial creative vision without fundamentally altering the theatrical cut.
This outstanding release sold out almost immediately, confirming its status as a collector’s item. Most other releases are considered adequate for any collection.
