DOTD (1979) Film Image Analyses

Here we are presented with a close up still of zombies removing a persons insides. This is quite an uncomfortable shot as the use of body horror is very realistic. Romero was well known for this, being his own auteur style and makes the audience pay more attention. Representing the historical context at the time this film was not restricted by the hays code and was classed as unrated when it was released. Within this image we are able to see that historical context has been used in the form of body horror. This Is a reflection of the Vietnam War which took place within the 1970’s. Tom Savini was involved in the War and is the special FX guy for this film. He would have witnessed true gore and horror therefor would have had a heavy influence on his work. This would have enabled him to add real life experiences to his work and giving him and the film and extra edge and advantage. It is also incorporating political satire by attacking and confronting the idea of shopping malls and the concept of capitalism and consumerism. This type of full on gore fits in well to the mise-en-scene. A close up has been used to force you to watch the sustained gore making the audience feel uneasy. This shot also makes you experience the themes of violence and fear of death.