It has been imitated, parodied, and diluted over the years by its massive influence, but the full impact of Romero’s first Dead masterpiece remains unchanged. With its lack of polish the film continues to be a staple in low-budget horror and crafted the image of the modern zombie. Night of the Living Dead bleeds claustrophobia and anxiety, creating an environment that unsettles the audience as much as the characters. One must applaud Romero for his unconventional casting of an African-American lead as the level-headed hero, something that sadly remains little seen in Hollywood today. With an ending as haunting and disturbing as any horror movie that came after or before it, Night is a milestone that spawned a new generation of horror.