We at Moon Island Arts are big fans of Night of the Living Dead and today we would like to share an overview of its original posters and some of the re-releases from different countries.
“Night of the Living Dead,” a landmark 1968 horror film directed by George A. Romero, is not only famous for its groundbreaking approach to the zombie genre but also for its iconic poster. The poster for “Night of the Living Dead” has become a symbol of horror cinema, encapsulating the film’s revolutionary impact and its enduring influence on popular culture.
The original 1968 Night of the Living Dead poster
The poster is renowned for its striking black-and-white visuals that echo the film’s monochromatic cinematography. It masterfully employs a composition that suggests scenes of chaos and despair, effectively conveying the relentless tension and horror that are hallmarks of the movie.
One of the most prominent features of the poster artwork is its bold, alarming text. The title “Night of the Living Dead” is presented in a font that is both jagged and erratic, mirroring the film’s theme of societal upheaval and the unpredictability of the zombie menace. There are different speculations about why that shade of green was chosen for the titles, but our personal theory is “just because it looks great”. The tagline “They won’t stay dead!” further amplifies the sense of dread and imminent danger.
The poster’s design plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the film. It doesn’t just advertise the movie; it serves as a visual prelude to the cinematic experience. The artwork captures the essence of the film’s horror and suspense, making it not just a promotional tool but a piece of art in its own right.
Over the years, the “Night of the Living Dead” poster has gained cult status among horror enthusiasts and film collectors. It’s not just a reminder of the film but a testament to the power of graphic design in cinema. The poster has inspired countless imitations and homages, reflecting its lasting impact on the horror genre and the wider cultural landscape.
There are more Night of the Living Dead posters than you think!
When we did some research before creating our own NOTLD poster we were surprised to find out that there were actually few alternative Night of the Living Dead posters done upon release and post release! Lets have a look!
U.S. Night of the Living Dead posters
In addition to the previously shown classic and black and white one sheets, there were a few more versions. Also, fun fact: there was an error on the original 1968 movie poster. The name of the producer Russell W. Streiner is incorrectly spelled as Russel with one L and was only fixed later.
European Night of the Living Dead posters
NOTLD posters were developed for European countries in a way that would speak most to people in that country. With just a variety of posters for the same movie, it’s interested to see how they are similar or different from one another.
Australian Night of the Living Dead Poster
Let’s not forget about our friends down under! An Australian NOTLD poster was also released as a one sheet.
This is not the end, this is just the beginning!
At Moon Island Arts, our exploration of these posters is more than just an academic exercise; it’s a passion-driven journey through the annals of cinematic history.
As we’ve unveiled the myriad faces of “Night of the Living Dead” through its posters, we’ve discovered errors, cultural adaptations, and artistic liberties that all contribute to the rich history of this beloved movie.
Moon Island Arts Night of the Living Dead poster
For those captivated by this horror milestone, Moon Island Arts proudly presents our own rendition of the ‘Night of the Living Dead’ poster, available in our shop. It’s a piece that not only celebrates the film’s rich history but is also designed to thrill and inspire fans and collectors. Discover our tribute to this timeless classic below.
Also, please follow us on Instagram to stay tuned for latest poster releases!
