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Biography of George A. Romero and His Legacy in Western Pennsylvania
George A. Romero was an American director, writer, and producer most known for his creative and innovative additions to the horror movie genre. Before creating the classic horror movies we know and love today, Romero began his career at the Carnegie Institute of Technology in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After graduating in 1960, he directed a few short segments in the popular children’s television series, Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. Later, Romero pulled together the funds to direct his first movie, Night of the Living Dead. At its release in 1968, this low-budget film was not successful. However, it later became considered a “cult classic,” pioneering the way for unique and exciting additions to the horror movie genre as a whole. Throughout his career, Mr. Romero went on to create a number of classics of the horror genre – including Dawn Of The Dead, Martin, and Creepshow as well as the television series Tales From The Darkside.
Douglas Education Center utilizes the knowledge and expertise of world-renowned filmmaking professionals like George A. Romero. With a dedication to assisting students with their careers in the film industry, we deliver hands-on and one-of-a-kind education.
Changing the Horror Movie Genre
Critics and movie buffs alike highly praise Night of the Living Dead for its unique flair on the traditional zombie tropes of the time. After its release, it created a wave in the horror movie industry, introducing the widely-popular, brain-eating zombie trope most movies feature today. This exciting shift in the horror movie genre has paved the way for some of the best horror masterpieces of all time.
After the success of Night of the Living Dead, Romero went on to write and direct several sagas, including:
- Dawn of the Dead (1978)
- Day of the Dead (1985)
- Land of the Dead (2005)
- Diary of the Dead (2007)
- Survival of the Dead (2009)
Throughout his career, Romero didn’t just limit himself to bringing the myth of zombies to life. He also explored other horror-related subjects, taking part in the production of several movies, including:
- Season of the Witch (re-released in 1972)
- The Crazies (1973)
- Martin (1977)
- Monkey Shines (1988)
- Bruiser (2001)
Collaborative Projects
Around the 1980s, Romero began working with Stephen King, a well-known author of many popular horror books and short stories. In 1981, Romero produced Knightriders, and not soon after, directed King’s screenplay for both Creepshow (1982) and Creepshow 2 (1987). In addition, he collaborated with King to create the television show Tales from the Darkside from 1984 to 1988. Later, they began working on a movie of the same name, released in 1990. In 1993, Romero filmed and directed his last collaboration with King called The Dark Half (1993).
Going Back to His Roots
In the fall of 2016, Romero returned to Pittsburgh, PA, the location of his alma mater. Thriving on a passion for student success, he decided to open George A. Romero’s Filmmaking Program at Douglas Education Center. Here, students have the opportunity to access his expertise and unique perspective on the horror genre and the filmmaking industry as a whole. With experience in writing, directing, shot editing, sound recording, and more, students will gain exclusive insight into the world of film.
Although Romero passed away in 2017, his legacy still lives on through his films, knowledge, and teachings at Douglas Education Center. By applying to our program, students can access video lessons filmed by Romero himself alongside hands-on experience in the filmmaking process. Our goal is to prepare students for all aspects of filmmaking, including producing, editing, directing, wardrobe, and more. To learn more about George A. Romero or our filmmaking program in Western PA, Contact Us today.
