Is “Return of the Living Dead” a Sequel?
The question of whether “Return of the Living Dead” is a sequel to George A. Romero’s classic zombie film “Night of the Living Dead” has been a topic of debate among horror movie enthusiasts for decades. While the two films share some thematic elements and a focus on zombies, the answer is not as straightforward as one might think.
Firstly, it’s important to note that “Return of the Living Dead” was produced by Romero, which could suggest a direct connection to his earlier work. However, the film was directed by Tom Savini, who was not involved in the making of “Night of the Living Dead.” This distinction alone raises questions about the film’s status as a sequel.
Secondly, the plot of “Return of the Living Dead” takes place in a different setting and features a different cast of characters. While “Night of the Living Dead” is set in a small rural town, “Return of the Living Dead” is set in a military base. This change in setting and characters indicates that the film is not a direct continuation of the original story.
Furthermore, the tone and style of “Return of the Living Dead” differ significantly from those of “Night of the Living Dead.” The original film is known for its dark, eerie atmosphere, while “Return of the Living Dead” is more comedic and campy. This shift in tone suggests that the film is not a straightforward sequel but rather a reimagining of the zombie genre.
However, despite these differences, “Return of the Living Dead” does share some thematic elements with “Night of the Living Dead,” such as the use of zombies as a metaphor for societal decay and the struggle for survival. This connection has led some to argue that the film is indeed a sequel, albeit an unconventional one.
In conclusion, whether “Return of the Living Dead” is a sequel to “Night of the Living Dead” is a matter of interpretation. While the two films share some thematic elements and were produced by the same individual, the differences in setting, tone, and style suggest that “Return of the Living Dead” is more of a reimagining of the zombie genre than a direct continuation of Romero’s original story. Ultimately, the answer to this question may lie in the eyes of the beholder, as fans of both films can find something to appreciate in each interpretation.
