31 Days of Halloween: Return of the Living Dead

Return of the Living Dead (1985)
******** (8 out of 10 stars)

Director: Dan O’Bannon

“Hey, these things don’t leak, do they.”

“Return of the Living Dead” is a cult classic from 1985 that truly captures the spirit of its time. Directed by Dan O’Bannon, the film delivers an exhilarating experience, earning 8 out of 10 stars. Set in the 1980s, a period marked by the fading influence of punk rock, the movie touches on relevant themes such as environmental concerns, nuclear fears, and the pursuit of fun with friends.

From the opening credits to the climactic finale, the film’s energy is infectious. It features memorable lines and events that have become iconic in zombie pop culture. This legendary romp is as lively and boisterous as Suicide’s boom box, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. “Return of the Living Dead” doesn’t shy away from gratuitous violence, nudity, and awkward humor. It embodies everything that was both right and wrong with 1980s cinema, making it a exciting relic of its era.