Official Land of the Dead Thread

[Sadogoat]

Yes, I know there is already a Dead Reckoning thread (which I also started) - but I've posted this up as a new, seperate thread because Romero's fourth zombie flick - now entitled Land Of The Dead - is now officially underway! Here's the juice (courtesy of Variety):

"George Romero is set to direct "Land of the Dead," a horror film that picks up on the zombie saga he hatched with "Night of the Living Dead" and continued with "Dawn of the Dead" and "Day of the Dead."

Pic, from Romero's own script, is being co-financed by Atmosphere Entertainment and Paris-based Wild Bunch. Production will begin in October in Winnipeg or Pittsburgh. Latter was the site of shooting for Romero's original 1968 zombie trilogy.

New film will be produced by Atmosphere chairman-CEO Mark Canton and prexy Bernie Goldmann, along with Romero's partner Peter Grunwald of Romero Grunwald Prods. Atmosphere's Steve Barnett is exec producer.

Go picture is the first for Atmosphere, which Canton formed late last year with financing from Daedalus Media Partners principal Mark J. Kimsey. While the company hatched a surplus of scripts Canton brought from previous ventures, "Land of the Dead" is a new script buy.

In Romero's new pic, the zombies having taken over the world and those left alive are confined to a walled-in city that keeps out the corpse corps. Anarchy rules the streets, with the wealthy insulated and living in fortified skyscrapers. Drama revolves around a group of scavengers who must thwart an attempt to overthrow the city while the dead are evolving from brainless slow-moving creatures into more advanced creatures.

Canton said Romero's early work was the touchstone for a slew of current horror hits and that his script showed the master hadn't lost his touch.

He and Goldmann described the film as "Night of the Living Dead" meets "The Road Warrior," and Wild Bunch's Vincent Grimond sparked to the overseas potential. The two companies have the ability to cover the budget themselves but expect to land a domestic distributor before the zombies wreak havoc in the fall.

Romero had been developing "Diamond Dead," a black comedy musical that's being produced by Scott Free and Andrew Gaty, and he also scripted an adaptation of the Stephen King novel "The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon," which he may direct for Canadian financier Don Archibald and Lions Gate. But he jumped at the chance to dig up the dead again.

"People ask me why I've waited so long to do another 'Dead' film," Romero said. "I made one in the '60s, one in the '70s and one in the '80s. The only reason I missed the '90s is because I wanted to stay faithful to the tradition while coming up with something new."

Romero's new film will have a budget in the teens. The original cost $140,000 and grossed $20 million worldwide, becoming one of the most profitable films of all time. The first sequel, "Dawn of the Dead" cost $1.2 million and grossed $40 million worldwide."

FINALLY!!! After all this time, it's going ahead!

[hatefuldisplay]

Outstanding!. Thanks for posting, Sado.

[Jiisu]

the dead are evolving from brainless slow-moving creatures into more advanced creatures."

I'm very glad GAR isnt sticking with walkers and going for something a little more intense. The walking dead could have easily been thwarted so it makes sense for them to have changed. As long as the make up effects are on par with Dawn 04, this project cant go wrong.

[preacher]

yeah just read this on channel 4 teletext p311 (for uk posters) sounds great, lets hope this doesnt go boobs up because the premise sounds cool. hope the dead are just faster and more intelligent though but not so intelligent that theyve in armies etc with a leader (like in the omega man)

[smashbot]

This movie sounds like it could be really good. Well done, George!

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

Awesome news, just curious though how does this article in variety make it official? I have read plenty of articles about movies in it that eventually lost their financing. Hopefully that won't happen ::crossing fingers::

[Pain]

Awesome news, just curious though how does this article in variety make it official? I have read plenty of articles about movies in it that eventually lost their financing. Hopefully that won't happen ::crossing fingers::
Am with you on that one! I'll be a lot happier when i see it on the big screen. Sounds promising so far. It's always good news to see new zombie flicks being made, especially one by GAR! :clap: :drinking:

[Cyber Bishop]

This gets me excited about the 4th film even more.. I hope it is not a bust.

[analogzombie]

YAY! YAY! YAY!

YESSS!!! Finally, the King is back! Long live the king!

Ok, man, I'm going out on a limb, but this is gonna be AWESOME!

All you haters who cite Dawn 2004 and 'Zombie' as 'best of the genre' are gonna get a kick in the teeth called 'Land of the Dead". It's time for the master to put the slew of lacklustre zombie pics into the grave and make his final mark on the genre that he defined.

can you tell i'm excited?

[Jiisu]

You sound like you're in love with the guy. I just recently saw Zombie and it was pretty good, much better than the likes of City of the Dead and Children of the Living dead for sure. I also recently saw Children Shouldn't Play With Dead Things which was also a treat. Bio Zombie, however, was a waste of time because it adapted the same technique as House of the Dead. It's ending, after the whole parking garage scene, was acceptable and didnt match the rest of the film. The zombies in BZ also weren't brainless, which ticked me of supremely.

[analogzombie]

I just think that GAR is the best director ever to make a zombie film, that his zombie films are far and away the best, and that he is one of the most important directors America has ever produced. not in love, in awe.

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

pffft, whatever, GAR sucks... jk

He's good, but I am going to have to disagree with "one of the most important directors America has ever produced" I am glad he is getting to direct again.... finally!

[Bastard Turtle]

I do believe that I have said it before, but...

HOLY SHIT ****ING HELLS ASS YEAH!

[Brody]

Peronally I'd like to see George write the story and then let someone else helm it. As good as NOTLD, DOTD and DayOTD are; they are not GREAT FILMS.

Im going to prepare for the stone throwing now. Sorry guys, I just think a better director would help.

[corgi37]

Nah, its his puppy, he's gotta walk it. This is great news. Perfect timing. By the time it comes out, maybe 12 months from now, it will perfectly close this current resurgence. You know, save the best for last, kind of thing. Fingers crossed Savini is involved.

[Jiisu]

I think Night 90 is directed better and I think that Tom Savini and GAR collaborate if not just director/sfx artist, but maybe even as co-directors.

[smashbot]

I have to agree with you Outland. George's scripts are great, but his direction is average at best. Imagine what a Ridley Scott or David Fincher could do with one of these films.

[Zombie-A-GoGo]

I'm the other way around. I don't think George is a particularly great writer. I'd like to see someone else re-write whatever he has, and then let him direct. But that's just me.

[analogzombie]

Ok, no offense but some of you guys are nuts ;)

GAR definately has a directing style, but he IS a good director. His use of a range of shot compositions is outstanding. In the cemetary scene from NOTLD alone he uses 5 different shot compositions, one after the other, combined with excellent editing to create am amazing sense of suspense and panic. He is a real pioneer in american film, period. I mean it is a fact. he was one of the first directors to incorporate quick cuts, dog shots, and fast edits into his films. This stuff is totally common practice today but in 68 through 78 it was nowhere to be scene. GAR realized from his commercial work that an image didn't have to appear o screen but for a split second for it to register with the brain. By doing this he creates a much richer world in his films.

His writing could be described as 'hackneyed' but its just that he is being honest in his overt use of metaphor. His writing is akin to Stephen King's i think b/c although both delve into characeture and cliche it still works to tell a successful story.

as for him being a defining force in American cinema and one of our most important directors.... Night of the Living Dead cemented it. That movie was the biggest indie hit ever. it spawned whole genres of European film and changed the course of mainstream horror movies forever. It's impact cannot be underestimated. And GAR continues to soldier on his own path w/o the hlp of studios, unlike Scorsese, DePalma, or Coppola, who cashed in their indie cred for hollywood bucks a long time ago. GAR definately deserves to be in the company of Altman, Corman, Bogdonovich etc...

GAR is the man, man.

[preacher]

For me personally i think GAR is much like Lucas in that he comes up with great premises with fantastic imagination but the actual scripts and direction would be handled better by someone else.

His dead trilogy is thought provoking and highly original and i doubt theres many here who wouldnt be zombie fans if it wasnt for his films but hes not perfect, and for what ever reason whether its the suits preventing him from realising his true vision or whatever but for me the premise and idea of his films are what i enjoy, his actual scripts and direction are average at best.

Just like ESBack was better written and directed without Lucas, a zombie movie based on an idea from GAR yet directed and scripted by someone else is (for me anyway) a more tantalising prospect than one directed and written by the great man himself.

[Bastard Turtle]

I thinkt that Romero is a great Director, and a very gifted screenwriter as well. He writes scripts the way Stephen King writes novels. They aren't about the strange situation, the movies are about the characters in them. That is why they are such big hits, they aren't empty and hollow. The characters in them really come alive. His only lack is his deep use of cliches in most of his characters. But he uses that to a great extent as well. Like Peter, he had "street brothers" he was supposed to be the average cliched Black Guy of the 70s. But upon the final extent of his character he is far more than the cliche. I think that it is spotty and unless you are a really deep person you won't fully enjoy his films.

[corgi37]

Savini as co-director, or 2nd unit, sounds really good. But, whats the bet Christine Romero get the gig? And, i would imagine, Romero and Savini would fight like cats and dogs.

My only sincere desire, is that GAR modernises his approach a bit. We all know he likes using no-name (dare i say it, even no-talent) actors, but i'd like to see at least a couple of good actors, and maybe even a name. Maybe a Hackman or Duvall as the "boss-man" character. You know, the Mayor. Also, maybe watch the editing a bit, and lay off the cheesy cliched characters, like the Coopers, Rickles, Steeles, boss from Bruiser, and even (dare i say it again) the Rhodes of this world.

Going by the scenario of this 4th dead film, there would be no need for the panicky, edge or their sanity, bad guys. Its ignoring the problem, righ! So, everyone should be blase and careless. Lazy even. When it comes to the undead. No need for bulging eyes and screaming orders to survive. Hey, chill out, we are cool and safe behind these walls and electrified fences, man!

Then, one day, just as everyone is getting on with their lives, maybe a bit too comfortable...

And then we have a movie!

[bubrulez]

zombies, gore, George, where can you go wrong? I'm excited!

[Cybopath]

What? George not a good director? Most of you are missing the point. Romero's style is delebritly un glamerose. He doesn't use big fancey shots, Huge dollys or 360 degrea pans. His films look edgy, gritty but most importanly REAL almost like a documentary this is why the films are scary mabey not the conventional fear of "Boo!" everyone gets a fright re-start tention for next big scare but in the mental fear the idea that swishes around in your head afterwards.

[Bastard Turtle]

^Exactly.

Romero's filmaking style is so that the scares stick with you alot longer, his are movies you have nightmares about, I've had plenty of zombie nightmares, but never a Friday the 13th nightmare or one from any other slasher type horror flick.

[Dagnammit]

I think I speak for everyone here when I say: YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-****ING-HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! :evil: :drinking: :drinking: :drinking:

[LivingDead]

this could very well be the best news ever!!! When I saw the news posted on Romero's site, I freaked out!!!! Although I loved Dawn 2004, and I can;t wait for the sequel to Resident Evil, this by far is the movie I'm looking forward to over all!!!!!!!!

[corgi37]

Very well put. We've had the cheap candy, and it satisfied us temporarily. Now we want the gourmet chocolate.

Or, to put it in a more mature way. We've drunk the crappy, U.S. style watered down piss beer, and we got drunk. But now we are going to get the good Aussie-style stuff.

Come on, GAR, bring it home baby.

[Jiisu]

I believe land is gonna suck, simply because I think he will over do it unintentionally. I mean movies with alot of commentary on the current state of social affairs, in my eyes, are getting very drawn out. What ever he implies in this film has already been done to death by the media. Every topic has been talked through to conclusion. Any conflict that he has in the film between the characters will just be newer versions of older conflicts between older characters.

As I would like to have faith in the film, I think its destined to be a disappointment. But I hope I'm wrong.

[analogzombie]

I believe land is gonna suck, simply because I think he will over do it unintentionally. I mean movies with alot of commentary on the current state of social affairs, in my eyes, are getting very drawn out. What ever he implies in this film has already been done to death by the media. Every topic has been talked through to conclusion. Any conflict that he has in the film between the characters will just be newer versions of older conflicts between older characters.

As I would like to have faith in the film, I think its destined to be a disappointment. But I hope I'm wrong.

let me ask you:

do you feel night of the Living Dead, Dawn of the Dead, and Day of the Dead suck? If no, then what are you basing your opinion on? I mean if you enjoy all his previous work in the genre why would you be so sure this will not be any good. It's not like there is a wealth of info available yet. If you say yes they do suck, then what are you doing on this site? I mean those films define the genre of zombie films.

But are you saying that it will suck b/c films with social commentary have no place in today's world of film because the issues have been talked about before? I mean every artist interprets issues through their own vision, so its not as if it will be a complete rehash of ideas. even if it were, what does that have to do with anything.

i guess just can't imagine why any zombie fan would doom a GEORGE ROMERO zombie film out of the gate while they seem to wholeheartedly support something like Day of the Dead: Contagium.

[corgi37]

As bizarre as this sounds, i agree with both of you. I think GAR has to be careful not to simply "remake" his prior 3 zombie movies, which basically (with minor adjustments) were the same movie, made 3 times. Couped up in a house, couped up in a mall, couped up in a silo. But, seeing what GAR has indicated LAND's direction as rich vs poor (at least, thats what my gist of it it) well, we all know that. With Enron bosses buying $100mil homes, while thousands go broke, with people like O.J. getting off, our increasing fascination with rich no-bodies (Paris Hilton) - GAR can tap into all of that.

But, he's gotta watch the poor acting, the some times silly scripting. We dont want some stupid, over the top, fat pig Mayor. We dont need cliched characters. I'd like to see the Mayor of "Gobblers Green", or what ever it is called, as a suave, sophisticated born-to-rule type of fellow. Some one who can smile while he knifes you in the back.

The hero shouldnt be some every day schmo, some Mr. Average. He should not be "black and white" good. There's gotta be a bit of grey, too.

So, i can see how people can be concerned. It aint the 80's no more. Reagan is dead, and we have all moved on in mindset and tastes. Personally, i would adore GAR to adapt a little, but hope he hasnt lost the spirit he of the original 3.

But, to agree with Analogue, how can you say GAR will out-right fail? The movie isnt even finished. I doubt the working script is even close to finalisation. GAR seems to have realised the movie he wants to make is not necessarily the movie that gets released in cinemas. DVD sales will kill any money this movie makes at the cinemas. DVD will be the vision of the movie he wants to show.

I wasnt already confident of LAND either. I too have concerns that maybe GAR is too 1 dimensional, and that his "Us vs Them" 60's mentality could cloud the movie's enjoyment. Now, i am sure he is on the right track to make a superb conclusion to his zombie movies.

Time will tell. Though i hope Bruiser isnt an indication of his current movie skills.

[Alien]

Well I dont share your excitement I'm afraid, wanna know why? "More advanced creatures" that's why! If this film doesn't focus on the traditional walking dead I will be really pissed. Change my ass!, we need another good traditional zombie movie like the original trilogy for god sake!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I assume these advanced creatures are going to turn into monsters with wings or something???????? This is simply heartbreaking for zombie fans!!!!!!!!!

[Jiisu]

WHOA! I never said i supported Contagium. I simply said they have their reasons.

Just because I like the Trilogy and its remakes thus far doesnt mean i have to be an ass and automatically assume that just because its coming from GAR it's gold. Look at AI. Perfect example of a very talented director making a crappy movie. When I think of GAR, I think of cheesy horror flicks. Now today, cheesy horror flicks are dumped on. He may be a good director in your eyes, but to deny that each of the movies had cheese is a mistake on your part. Also, his ability to pick HORRIBLE ACTORS (fly boy and rhodes mainly) is almost laughable because it seems like he wanted them to be that bad. I thought it very interesting how Flyboy turned out to be a much better zombie than an actual character.

But all together my point is this. I like GAR and his zombie flicks. I have nothing against them. But that formula simply will not work today. Even 28 days later, though seemingly independant, had some talent on board. The end result was a good movie, zombie or not.

To reiterate, I hope I'm wrong.

[corgi37]

I gotta admit, the "advanced zombies" had me in shock. Then, i referred to the original DAY script in my brain. In it, a platoon, brigade, whatever of zombies are trained to protect the survivors who wear these vests. Trained to use weapons and what not. Think Bub, but about 100 of them. When it came to the re-write to trim the budget down, all we got was Bub. Well, Bub was in the original too, but not as "cute" as he is in the film. So, if that's GAR's version of "advanced", i'm cool with it.

Maybe we'll have zombie road workers, janitors, waiters & (dare i say it) prostitutes?

If he has them talking, i will be walking! -cool huh?

[Bastard Turtle]

I've always wanted to see that first scene in the Day script where we saw the trained zombies for the first time. The crew from the boat is hiding and there is a squad of zombies out patrolling. Jesus how scary is that shit? I'd love to see that in Land, just a platoon of zombies under the control of two or three soldiers walking the streets everyday blowing heads off of zombies that happened to get in.

[goesaround]

Analogzombie your commentary on Romero is a brilliant 3 minute film course in American film making and the sixties !Bravo! What you wrote below is so right on. I can not believe what I read here. From the sound of some of these guys they would like to see George put in Vin Diesel in the lead and have Jerry Bruckheimer produce it! Right on Analog Zombie!


Ok, no offense but some of you guys are nuts ;)

GAR definately has a directing style, but he IS a good director. His use of a range of shot compositions is outstanding. In the cemetary scene from NOTLD alone he uses 5 different shot compositions, one after the other, combined with excellent editing to create am amazing sense of suspense and panic. He is a real pioneer in american film, period. I mean it is a fact. he was one of the first directors to incorporate quick cuts, dog shots, and fast edits into his films. This stuff is totally common practice today but in 68 through 78 it was nowhere to be scene. GAR realized from his commercial work that an image didn't have to appear o screen but for a split second for it to register with the brain. By doing this he creates a much richer world in his films.

His writing could be described as 'hackneyed' but its just that he is being honest in his overt use of metaphor. His writing is akin to Stephen King's i think b/c although both delve into characeture and cliche it still works to tell a successful story.

as for him being a defining force in American cinema and one of our most important directors.... Night of the Living Dead cemented it. That movie was the biggest indie hit ever. it spawned whole genres of European film and changed the course of mainstream horror movies forever. It's impact cannot be underestimated. And GAR continues to soldier on his own path w/o the hlp of studios, unlike Scorsese, DePalma, or Coppola, who cashed in their indie cred for hollywood bucks a long time ago. GAR definately deserves to be in the company of Altman, Corman, Bogdonovich etc...

GAR is the man, man.
__________________

[Brody]

I am prepared for the Legion of the Dead to tear me apart.

First, let me say that I am the consumate DEAD fan. I love the Dead and admit, out of all of the sub cult genres, this genre is the one that fascinates me. That being said...

George Romero is not a great filmmaker. He is in the position of more or less being reponsible for one of the biggest cult classics of all time with Night of the Living Dead. This film was not a great milestone in terms of cinematic prowness. The entire film is shot Cinema Verite (Thats a real cool French word us filmmakers like to use that simply means 'hand-held' or 'documentary style'). This was nothing new in the late 60's. In fact there are tons of films that share this style of filmmaking from that era with the French perfecting it. Godard, Rivette, Rohmer, Chabrol and The New Wave movement and later mutating into Dogma). What I am saying is that Romero was doing nothing new. He was merely doing what he could do on his budget and schedule. They didnt have time nor resources for elaborate lighting and dolly/crane shots. (Have you even seen A Hard Days Night? Released in 1964 and has a very similar style.)

Is Romero important to American Cinema? Yes. A Defining force and one of our most important directors? No way. On a Cult level Romero is sitting at the round table no doubt about it; as independent cinema goes, maybe he's allowed into the castle. His resume is not that impressive sans the DEAD Trilogy (Creepshow? Knightriders? Monkey Shines?).

To put Romero in the same league as Altman, Corman and Bogdonovich is completely unfair to those directors who have made works of art (well Corman hasnt exactly made works of art :P) and to discredit Scorsese, DePalma and Coppola is almost blasphemy.

The reality is; George is not a great filmmaker. If he was, he's continue to work and produce more than the dribbble he has since NOTLD. The only reason his new DEAD film is going into production is the recent resurgence of DEAD films thanks to Danny Boyle and the boys at Universal for re-making (tribute to...) Dawn of the Dead and unbeliavably The Resident Evil games that seems to have re-launched the Dead to a whole new generation.

Let George wrote the story. Then bring in someone to do the drafts. Bring in another Director (One who can actually make a film) and NO...

Do not bring in Vin or Bruckheimer.

[Lasakon]

Why don't we get Ingmar Bergman to come out of retirement to film it and the X-Men 2 writers to do script re-writes. Then they can just give Romero a Special Thanks credit. That would be a true Dead film. These are George's films. Let them be made by George, and for the record, I loved Creepshow and Knightriders.

[Brody]

Ingmar Bergman isn't retired; he's still working.

Don't get me wrong. I look very forward to this film and can't wait. I just want the best possible effort. Film is a collaborative medium and George just isnt a great filmmaker.

In all fairness? You are absolutley right. They are George's films and he should finish what he started.

[corgi37]

Yeah, pretty good points you guys. I aint in a mood to disagree. I saw the Who on Saturday, and i'm still in a good mood. GAR will bring this baby home, and we'll all love it. I just know it.

[Lasakon]

Ingmar Bergman isn't retired; he's still working.

Don't get me wrong. I look very forward to this film and can't wait. I just want the best possible effort. Film is a collaborative medium and George just isnt a great filmmaker.

In all fairness? You are absolutley right. They are George's films and he should finish what he started.
According to this: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000005/bio :he is. I don't know how reliable Imdb is these days though. There is also an CNN story on it: http://www.cnn.com/2004/SHOWBIZ/07/14/showbuzz/index.html : Again it's accuracy is questionable.

[Brody]

Yeah, pretty good points you guys. I aint in a mood to disagree. I saw the Who on Saturday, and i'm still in a good mood. GAR will bring this baby home, and we'll all love it. I just know it.

LOL

You saw the The Who? Awesome. Nice take.

[Brody]

According to this: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000005/bio :he is. I don't know how reliable Imdb is these days though. There is also an CNN story on it: http://www.cnn.com/2004/SHOWBIZ/07/14/showbuzz/index.html : Again it's accuracy is questionable.

Who knows.

I saw the Credit List that said he has directed as recently as 2003 (albeit T.V.).

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000005/

One thing we can agree on is Bergman would be a terrible idea!

[Rickimaru]

I hope he doesnt screw it up. :drinking:

[Dr. Logan]

FINALLY!!! After all this time, it's going ahead!


Excellent!!!

[analogzombie]

Well it seems the film WILL be shot in Canada. The following apeared in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette the other day:


By Barbara Vancheri, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The zombies are lumbering across the border -- all the way to Toronto, for the next installment of George Romero's zombie series. Pittsburgh had been in the running for "Land of the Dead," the fourth zombie flick with a budget of $15 million to $20 million, but the decision was made yesterday to go to Canada.

"I can't tell you how disappointed I am, and George is incredibly disappointed," producer and Pittsburgh native Bernie Goldmann said. He is president of Atmosphere Entertainment, which will produce the movie.

"We all very much wanted to make the movie in Pittsburgh," he said, but it came down to money, and going to Canada will save millions, with the exchange rate and a government tax rebate of $1.5 million to $2 million. Goldmann said a new Pennsylvania bill, designed to lure filmmakers to the commonwealth, is "imperfect" and couldn't guarantee the same return.

Toronto is where Romero shot "Bruiser" and where crews can begin work in October for a spring or fall 2005 release. There is a chance the production could spend a few days in Pittsburgh.

Goldmann praised a long list of people and organizations who tried to make the numbers work. "We just couldn't work it out."

Gov. Rendell last week signed a bill granting exemptions from the state personal income tax to movie and TV production company employees if producers spend at least 60 percent of their budget shooting in Pennsylvania. There's a $10 million annual cap, and Goldmann said there's no way of knowing how many companies might try to tap into that pool for a tax credit.


really that's fine with me. i mean, the important thing is that the film gets made, and considering that its a semi-low budget movie, if they can find ways to stretch the production dollar i say do it. after all, I am sure Romero will shoot some shots in Pittsburgh, and wll at elast do some of it there. if for nostalgia if nothing else.

It's simply the tale of the times, and his budget is quite limited.

[Bastard Turtle]

Well, damn, I was hoping for a Pittsburgh setting, oh well. At least its getting made.

[Brody]

"I can't tell you how disappointed I am, and George is incredibly disappointed."

They have been trying to get this financed for how long? I'd be stoked to shoot it in Harlem. I heard where they will try and get some establishing shots in PA (landmarks etc). Canada can pass for New York, LA and even Pisttsburgh.

[goesaround]

Toronto? Well what are you going to do. Oh happy day..It really looks like it is on. I do have to say, by the way I disagree completely. Ingemar Bergmen would make a AWESOME zombie flick. First off he made in my mind's eye one of the best 'medieval' movies ever made. In that medieval movie one of the main characters was 'death' itself. I mean of course "The Seventh Seal" his lighting and Norse starkness would be awesome. He clearly has a sense of the the mythical. While 'death' was certainly no zombie, he was not rationlised or explained away either. Very powerful images ! Very powerful movie! If you havent seen it, go see it. If you have seen it watch it again and imagine......But it isnt going to happen anyway, but Georges is!!!!!!!The second point is this, brilliant writers,poets or filmmakers who make powerful statements can make equally powerful statementns is another medium and be equally statements outside the box. I know Gillian Bradshaw famed for her poetry wrote a historical mythic novel about King Arthur and it was among the best in it's genre. Surprising everybody who expected nothing of the sort. Good is Good! Like this site.

[corgi37]

Bit of a bummer for the Pittsburghians (or what ever the hell they call themselves) but the main point is its a goer! Now, we got any Canadians on this board who can keep an eye on the filming for us?

[analogzombie]

The HorrorChannel.com is reporting that Dennis Hopper is attached to star in Land of the Dead!

I can not tell you how awesome that is gonna be if true. For those of you who don't know (the kiddies), Hopper is a true genius of American independent cinema. Besides being an amazingly gifted actor, very intelligent, and a former acid head, Hopper was at the forefront of what has become American independent cinema. So his decision to work with George makes a lot of sense. and if anyone is wondering if Dennis can fit himself intot his type of project I would say 'go watch blue velvet and tell me if you still have any doubts'. this is great news and all I can say is: "heniken!?? **** that! PABST BLUE RIBBON!!!"

[Monkey Mech X]

Just as long as I can get some good zombie movies in 2005-6. I want greateness!

[Sadogoat]

According to comments from George at a recent convention, it seems that Universal Studios are going to be distributing Land Of The Dead. This seems to indicate that Universal currently have a big hard-on for zombie movies, since they also distributed the Dawn Of The Dead remake and Shaun Of The Dead (through subsidaries). They obviously know a good investment when they see it. :D

Oh, and the budget of Land is reportedly $16m - a full $6 more than George was originally asking for. Considering how he managed to squeeze maximum value out of his previous (much lower) budgets to make classic zombie films, I'll be interested to see what/how much he can pull off this time around. It probably helps that he only has one major CGI FX shot in the film. He's probably also getting discounted 'mate's rates' from KNB for the makeup technicians (since Nicotero and minions made it big off the back of the previous 'Dead' films & Tom Savini).

[Monkey Mech X]

I'm suddenly thinking that CGI will be used to make those "giant walls" we've heard about... Something environmental, maybe?

[Sadogoat]

Yes, but not walls. Romero mentioned the destruction of a bridge. Said there was no way he could do it "for real", so he'd rely on CGI for the effect.

[analogzombie]

Also, don't forget that $16m US is $21m Canadian! so the money goes a bit further. On top of that the Canadian gov't gives all sorts of rebates, incentives, and tax breaks to film companies operating in Canada. So i would say the money is there for Romero to make the film he has always anted to make.

awesome!

[Bastard Turtle]

Well, the money was there for Day also, but then it got pulled...not to be pessimistic or anything, though.

I'm rooting for you George!

[analogzombie]

But this is a totally different scenario from Day for several reasons:

1) in the time of DVD, Unrated films may not be seen in theaters, but they are gold on the Home market, making the primary reason for the cutting of funding for Day a non-issue for Land

2)Universal has signed on to distribute Land, Day was distributed by a small network. having Universal already signed on means that the film will most definately be seen by a large audience.

3) in 1985 everyone expected Day to be a follow up to Dawn in look and feel. In 2004 the film industry is more familiar with Romero's style, so anyone doing business with him knows what they are getting into.

4) In 1985 Romero's films and the Return series were the only zombie games in town. In 2004 everyone is zombie crazy and demand for product is high.

I guess my point is that films get their funding pulled all the time for all kinds of reasons. Its not just Romero and zombies. But with land of the Dead there are absolutely no indications that the money promised won't be delivered. The issues surrounding Day's production and no longer relevent in today's film industry. Granted there are a whole new set of issues, mainly related to the monopolization of US film market by a handful of companies, but Romero's project is now connected with both a large powerful film distributer and a production company headed by fellow artists who understand Romero's style and process. really I can't think of a way this project could be more secure other than Romero financing it himself with $150million.

[corgi37]

And, if it does work out, having some one like Hopper in Land, is only going to help it. Hey Analogue, i'm with ya on this! Hope he pulls a "Frank", and not the bad guy in "Waterworld". That was the pits!

I have no problem at all with name actors appearing in Land. In fact, i like it alot. I mean, see Bruiser. GAR didnt pull back the actor (pfft, actor!) playing the Italian boss. But, hopefully, some one like Hopper would say; "GAR, i want to do that scene again. I was too hammy".

The more i see what is happening with Land, the more i am really looking forward to it. I hope some lovely Canadians are on this board!!!

We'll need those updates!

[Monkey Mech X]

I'd like to know who's doing the soundtrack for this movie. It'd have to be upbeat while menacing. John Harrison and Goblin were excellent choices, so this movie has to live up to them!

[Sadogoat]

According to a recent interview with Greg Nicotero of KNB, he's confirmed that Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright (both of Shaun Of The Dead) will get zombie cameos in Romero's new "Dead" film (apparently, Pegg is a big "Bub" fan and wants to have a similar look as a zomb). Not only that, but it looks like Tom Savini will be getting an acting role too (more than just a cameo). Romero, Savini, and Nicotero together again just adds alot more promise to Land Of The Dead don't ya think?

UPDATE
Confirmation of Tom's involvement has been posted at his own official website:

"Tom has confirmed that George Romero has been in contact with him and he will be playing a part in Land of the Dead. It will be a substantial role. He will be playing a character and will not be doing the FX. FX tasks will be handled by long time Savini protégé KNB FX. It has also just been confirmed that filming will take place in Toronto. Stay tuned, much more on this project soon."

[analogzombie]

I'd like to know who's doing the soundtrack for this movie. It'd have to be upbeat while menacing. John Harrison and Goblin were excellent choices, so this movie has to live up to them!

I'm with you! he should get a 'goblin of our day' type group to do it. A band that is indie, with talent, kind of punk. Someone like The Faint, or Radio 4, or the guy from Radio Berlin / A Luna Red / Primes: Jack Duckworth. His stuff is really synth, dark, melodic. Kind of a synth heavy Joy Division in their darker Warsaw period. That would be the jank! i have a fear though that he'll get some goth metal shite, or some such nonsense.

check out Jack Duckworth at
www.primes-music.com
www.alunared.com

[Monkey Mech X]

Didn't Savini already die in the Dead universe? I smell a ROTLD-bit...

[corgi37]

OMG, not this crap again! No, Savini DIDNT die in the Dead universe. A character he played did. Just as Joe Pilato wasnt REALLY a cop on the dock in Dawn, and then got promoted to (hey, what was his rank?) to army in Day. Sheesh!

Just as John Amplin (is that his name?) wasnt REALLY a vampire in Martin, only to re-appear in Day as a scientist.

Gawd!

As for music, i couldnt care less. Hopefully, he'll just use stock again. That would be great.

[Sadogoat]

Just as Joe Pilato wasnt REALLY a cop on the dock in Dawn, and then got promoted to (hey, what was his rank?) to army in Day. Sheesh![/b]

He was a captain.

[b]Just as John Amplin (is that his name?)

John Amplas (who, incidentally, also had an uncredited role as one of the bikers killed by Peter at the end of Dawn).

[Monkey Mech X]

I don't care if it bothers you, I just don't like this throwing people around in cameos every damn movie. The cameos in DOTD '04 were good, but this constant reuse of people is getting old.

[Jiisu]

Tom Savini should be in all the Dead movies simply because he's bad ass. Sex Machine!

[analogzombie]

I don't care if it bothers you, I just don't like this throwing people around in cameos every damn movie. The cameos in DOTD '04 were good, but this constant reuse of people is getting old.

You mean like how Steven Spielberg uses Tom Hanks in a lot of movies, or how Scorsese likes to use DeNiro, or how PT Anderson uses Phillip Seymour Hoffman, John C Reilly, Julianne Moore, Phillip Baker Hall, and Melora Walters all the time? Yeah i hate when directors form working and artistic bonds with actors and then continue to place them in different roles in different movies with similar themes. Damm that sucks! If only they would work with people they don't know, who aren't familiar with the director's style and workling environment. yeah then maybe the movies would be good.

ok all sarcasm aside, i understand your issue concerning returning cameo roles in films that are suppose to be related, but they aren't exactly sequels. I mean if they were, man, fashion evolves fast in times of crisis.

[Sadogoat]

You mean like how Steven Spielberg uses Tom Hanks in a lot of movies, or how Scorsese likes to use DeNiro, or how PT Anderson uses Phillip Seymour Hoffman, John C Reilly, Julianne Moore, Phillip Baker Hall, and Melora Walters all the time? Yeah i hate when directors form working and artistic bonds with actors and then continue to place them in different roles in different movies with similar themes.

Heh, if you want even more examples of directors who have 'families' of returning actors & actresses in more than one of their movies, also consider Sam Raimi, Robert Rodriguez, Guillermo del Toro, James Cameron, Quentin Tarantino, and now even Peter Jackson. :)

[Monkey Mech X]

Trouble is they are sequels, and I don't like the fact that he's using the same person that's already had a cameo in another zombie movie within two years. It's not funny, it's not nostalgic, it's just overdone.

Why not do someone else? Be original? Make a new star?

[Zombie Minotaur]

They could resurrect Bill Hinzman for all I care. I just hope that Romero doesn?t screw things up like so many other classic directors have done. My friend told me a list of directors that completely destroyed their masterpieces, there were enough names to bring a tear to my eye. Pray that Land of the Dead does not end up like Star Wars Episodes 1 & 2.

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

Man the 5 second Tom Savini cameo is totally going to ruin Land of the Dead for me...

Personally I like cameos, the only time I didn't like them was in Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, kevin smith should have called it Cameo: The Movie. As long as they aren't hitting you over the head with it, and the appearances are in context, what is there to argue about?

[Brody]

I dont dig cameos as they take me right out of the picture. I see SAVINI and Im like "Oh yeah, he did the FX blah blah blah..."

In the DOTD 04 film he did the cameo as a Sheriff and had an erring and some weird fu manchu. Yeah, he really looked like a cop.

[analogzombie]

Man the 5 second Tom Savini cameo is totally going to ruin Land of the Dead for me...


c'mon man. would it really ruin it?

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

Are you being sarcastic? Cause I was trying to be :)

[Monkey Mech X]

Oh yeah, another example of people making cameos of characters in movies, apparently George Lucas is inserting a scene with Gugans in ROTJ, after the Death Star II explodes.

"Weesa free!"

:puke:

But I admit, Tom Savini is A LOT better than Jar-Jar Bink's fruity cousin.

[Bastard Turtle]

^Yeah, I am getting tired of the Re-do's on the SWT, that does kinda piss me off. Pull a Quentin Tarantino and make your damn movie once and do it right, then you won't have to go back and alter it to suit your vision everytime it changes.

[Brody]

Exactly.

What George doesnt seem to realize is that your 'vision' can change with age (vision perhaps is affected by your attitudes). George sucks (Lucas that is).

[devourthesun]

Yeah, Lucas pisses me off with his "Oh god! I have to go back and change this in this movie, and that in that movie, and GOD FORBID PEOPLE CARRY GUNS IN ET!!!!!!!" Its so ****ing dumb! I mean, I admit as an indy film maker, im planning on remaking one of my films, but thats b/c it was for a school project and it was a first film, but the idea is the same, im not adding anything i hadnt figured out for it in the first place. Lucas was once a hero of mine, but after the "special Editions" of nearly every movie he's ever made has come out, i've wanted to punch him. Course, if i could get a job with lucasfilm, i wouldnt complain.

[Bastard Turtle]

^Of course you wouldn't complain, there'd never be any shortness of work, anytime it got boring you could just tell GL that the film quality is just off color in one shot, so then we could have THE SUPER DUPER MEGUPER EDITION, now with free 3D glasses...**** beans...

[Brody]

Removing The Guns From E.t. Was Horrifying. Omg!

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

another thread derailed by Lucas hatred

[zombie_master]

Very excited about GAR's new flick, but disappointed that they are filming in Toronto instead of Winnipeg, seeing as I live there and could have been shufling aroung with the great!

Curses!!

[flenser]

Words really can't express just how wet the thought of a new Romero zombie movie makes me feel.

[i-eat-ears]

I'm quite glad about that :puke:

[Monkey Mech X]

I don't see the big hoo-ha over GAR's writing style. Look at it this way: He made the best zombie movies ever.

Do you really need to worry or want more? :roll:

[goesaround]

Hey any news? Whats the latest? Has any more bits of infp come out?

[Lasakon]

Dennis Hopper has been cast.

[DocZomby]

What's your source on that Dennis Hopper thing? Will he have a main role or cameo?

Regarding Romero's writing style, I think he does a much better job at creating a mood with setting and camera work. I cant think of much Dialouge from his flicks that really comes across as deep. Still, It will be wonderful to see the zombie masters work. Lets hope he comes up with better characters than he did for DOTD.

[Brody]

Maybe we can get Tarantino to write it!

[Sadogoat]

Ugh...I'd rather not. I'm not enough of a Tarantino fan to want to see him try zombie films. At any rate, I believe he's supposed to be busy with his own next movie project, Inglorious Bastards.

[analogzombie]

there's a fan page for Land of The dead at :http://www.thewebofhorror.com/romero.html
although it doesn't seem to have been updated for a month, it is nevertheless a great resource for info because there are links to all land of the Dead related news stories. check it out

[Sadogoat]

The latest news tidbit (from the mouths of Romero & Savini) seems to be that Tom Savini's new character in Land Of The Dead will meet and kill his old character from Dawn Of The Dead. In other words, he puts the zombified 'Blades' to rest.

Oh, and for those who've read (or read about) the old Dead Reckoning script, I get the strong impression that Savini's character will be Cholo.

[Brody]

Ugh...I'd rather not. I'm not enough of a Tarantino fan to want to see him try zombie films. At any rate, I believe he's supposed to be busy with his own next movie project, Inglorious Bastards.

I was just joking for the record.

[analogzombie]

As Sadogoat mentioned above Tom Savini is in line to have a major role in Land of the Dead. Romero, who had spoken ofhis desire to cast her before, is also making a play to get Asia Argento (daughter of filmmaker and Dawn financier Dario Argento, and an accomplished actress in her own right) in the film as well. Think of it, "George A. Romero's Land of the Dead starring Dennis Hopper, Asia Argento, and Tom Savini with special effects by KNB". Doesn't your mouth just water. The names: Romero, Argento, Savini, alone are enough to wet the appetite. Is this all too good to be true? let's hope not. The original Hooro Channel story appears below:


During a panel at this past weekend's Rue Morgue Festival of Fear convention up in Toronto, Tom Savini gave the crowd quite an earful in terms of what his role in the 4th installment of Romero's legendary film series could be.

Picture this if you will: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, one of the last "living strongholds" on the planet, is completely cordoned off. Droves of hungry zombies are clawing at the cityÕs borders, desperately trying to get a taste of the only "fresh meat" around. The city is patrolled and protected by a tank called "The Dead Reckoning." Every tank needs a crew. Every crew needs a leader. Enter Tom Savini.

Savini is in negotiations to co-star in the film as one of the leaders of a salvage team that goes out in the Dead Reckoning to search for supplies and/or survivors. It gets more interesting than this though, folks. Savini mentioned that one of George's plans for him is to run into and kill Blades, his original character from Dawn. As you can imagine, Blades is pretty much the worse for wear and will have a bloated look as he met his "earthly" demise in a fountain some time ago.

According to Ryan's report, nothing is official right now; this is just what's on the table. George has stated that no one has officially signed onto the project as of yet except for KNB, which will be providing what I am sure will be the best Dead FX ever. Romero has also stated that he's very interested in having Asia Argento onboard for the project, but again, nothing is for sure.

One thing I can tell you is VERY much for sure though! The future has never been darker, and that spells heaven for the horror fan!

[Brody]

Please do not tell me that you actually want Savini to be in this? In a speaking role? Wouldnt you prefer an actual actor? I mean, someone who can act?

SAVINI is not an actor. He's been in a few films and his performances are horrible.

As far ARGENTO goes; I can dig it. She is not bad.

[outkast]

Please do not tell me that you actually want Savini to be in this? In a speaking role? Wouldnt you prefer an actual actor? I mean, someone who can act?

SAVINI is not an actor. He's been in a few films and his performances are horrible.

As far ARGENTO goes; I can dig it. She is not bad.
Sex Machine was cool as hell. lol

[Brody]

I got a kick out of seeing him do a cameo in DOTD 04 as the Sheriff (even though Law Enforcement Officers do not have FU MANCHU's and Earings) but to put him in a major role I think would be a bad idea.

[Lasakon]

Please do not tell me that you actually want Savini to be in this? In a speaking role? Wouldnt you prefer an actual actor? I mean, someone who can act?

SAVINI is not an actor. He's been in a few films and his performances are horrible.

As far ARGENTO goes; I can dig it. She is not bad.
Two words, Disco Boy.

[Brody]

LOL

Perhaps

[deadwiz]

awsome news....i dont know about having Tarantino writting a zombie movie...might be cool, i think he would over do it though..i dont know...prob be interesting to see.

[analogzombie]

Please do not tell me that you actually want Savini to be in this? In a speaking role? Wouldnt you prefer an actual actor? I mean, someone who can act?

SAVINI is not an actor. He's been in a few films and his performances are horrible.

well i think he plays character roles quite well. the sort of over-the-top campiness that Romero always uses with a wink. If you don't have at least some aspect of that it's not quite a Romero zombie film. So as a supporting character role I can see him there.

[Brody]

I always felt that was what hurt DAWN. (over-the-top campiness). I would prefer to see it played out straight. Night didnt have really any campiness; DAWN had some silly ass stuff and DAY was played fairly straight.

All in my most humblest of opinions of course.

[Zombie-A-GoGo]

Ain't It Cool says: http://www.aint-it-cool-news.com/display.cgi?id=18253

I would just like to say how thrilled I am that Nicotero is doing the make up. Yay for us! And frankly, I could do without ever seeing Savini in front of a camera again. The only way he could truly redeem himself in my eyes is to cut the acting bullshit and get back to doing what I personally think he's much better at...the blood and the guts and the things that go squish.

Also...I've been vocal before on how I wished Romero would drop the "Fight the Man" attitude and just get a movie financed and made. I don't think I've gone on about it in a while. It's funny, but after reading that LOTD will start shooting in two weeks in Toronto, I felt a twinge of regret at my statements (but have since recovered, and still stand by them...heh.) I was thinking of how he used to champion Pittsburgh so much (fellow Pittsburgher here) and how he always said he wanted his films shot there. I understand why it's going to Canada, but I don't like it. Not just for the sake of Pittsburgh, but for the sake of a lot of people in this industry who are losing jobs over runaway production.

It really seems like a cause he would rally behind. Oh well, so much for nostalgia.

[analogzombie]

DAY was played fairly straight.


C'mon man, Rhodes and the rest of the Army guys were way, over-the-top. I guess you could argue that their actions were reasonable given the situation, but Rhodes' ridiculous diatribes... those were campy

[Brody]

Well put GOGO

And yes, analogzombie; Rhoades and his buffons were played over the top (Especially that laughing bundle of lard "You an F***** caveman!" guy). Their reasons were reasonable. Personally I gotta with Rhoades take that I dont want them to do anything but drop over.

Again, good take Zombie-A-GoGo. Who really cares where it is filmed honestly? Majority of the locations will most likely be indoors anyway or CGI Cities that have long been abandoned and neglected. I still stick to the rumour that they'll get some B footage of PA.

Just NO SAVINI!

[Zombie-A-GoGo]

Damn it, I care where it's filmed!! Hehheh.

Years and years I live in Pittsburgh, with no hope of being in a Romero zombie film as a zombie. Finally, it's off to LA, you know, where they "make movies." Wouldn't you know it, Romero gets a deal, and he actually gets some money...and I'm thinking I am so all over this zombie extra thing, because I'm here if it's here, and I'd fly back to Pa if it's there.

Toronto. *sigh*

"I still stick to the rumour that they'll get some B footage of PA."

No doubt. Or at least they'd better.

[Lasakon]

C'mon man, Rhodes and the rest of the Army guys were way, over-the-top. I guess you could argue that their actions were reasonable given the situation, but Rhodes' ridiculous diatribes... those were campy
Rhodes was the biggest realist down there. I think the rest of the guys pretty much acted the way they did to get a sense that the world was not over. Most likely everyone in their lives was killed or became zombies. It could be debated that they would have to joke around and be like that in that situation to avoid insanity.

[corgi37]

Well, zombie-a-go-go, you cant really whinge. You deserted your home town too!

Personally, i wish the whole thing was shot here in Australia.

The DEAD films need that tropical look. And, lots and lots of blonde, tanned, female zombies.

[Zombie Minotaur]

i wish it would be filmed here in san francisco, but then the movie would suck. transvestite zombies? nah. does put a whole new spin on the "hot zombie chick" thread, doesn't it? :puke:

[Monkey Mech X]

Zombies in hot pants!:x

[zombiekilling101]

haha richard simmons zombie... lol

[Idexdonu]

ha ha! that's pretty funny!

[Monkey Mech X]

No thanks needed. It's my nightmare.

[zombiekilling101]

No thanks needed. It's my nightmare.
haha and i like it.. muhahhaha

[trubadur]

YAY! YAY! YAY!

YESSS!!! Finally, the King is back! Long live the king!

Ok, man, I'm going out on a limb, but this is gonna be AWESOME!

All you haters who cite Dawn 2004 and 'Zombie' as 'best of the genre' are gonna get a kick in the teeth called 'Land of the Dead". It's time for the master to put the slew of lacklustre zombie pics into the grave and make his final mark on the genre that he defined.

can you tell i'm excited?
Well, I'm a BIG George fan (from sweden by the way, ya know, IKEA... ;-)) and I loved Dawn 04 and liked "zombie" (if your talking about the aussie movie). But note that I also LOVE the old movies "...of the dead" altough I actually like the 90's remake of the first one a little bit better then th original, but that could have some thiing to do with that I was born in the 80's :-P

[Lasakon]

http://www.bloody-disgusting.com/index.php?Show=2455&Template=newsfull
More great news!

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

Wow, tons of news, thanks for the link.

[Zombpete]

Nice link. God I am gettin tingles thinkin about LOTD. Man its going to be awsome.:rock:

[Zombie Minotaur]

8 to 12 CG zombies with the rest as full zombie cast? good, very good

[Brody]

I have no issues with the CGI aspect; CGI should be used to enhance the reality NOT be an end all. Shite! I cant wait! The more we talk about it the more stressed I get.

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

I am glad he is using CGI. There is simply no way to use practical effects for heavily decayed/ripped apart zombies. I mean you can only do so much with stop motion, and shooting things from certain angles. I am looking forward to seeing zombies with holes through the torso. I mean just imagine how cool tar man would have looked in RotLD if he had been even thinner, with a couple holes in him. I mean nothing beats practical effects, but when it comes to gore, cgi often times can look a lot more realistic.

[analogzombie]

I am glad he is using CGI. but when it comes to gore, cgi often times can look a lot more realistic.

I have to quibble, it's my nature. CGI, to me is very rarely used effectively to make things look more realistic. example: Resident Evil, the CGI in that film looks atrocious and awful. CGI blood is no substitution for karo syrup and red food dye. But having said that, knowing Romero's desire to utilize it in only key ways I think in this case it will have the effect you are talking about. Much in the way that Peter Jackson utilized CGI in addition to physical makeup effects, I suspect Romero will use it to supplement the work, not takeover. So what we may get is a person in maekup who happens to have his guts digitally removed revealing simply a spinal collumn, or some such thing.

That will be the most satisfying use I can imagine.

[corgi37]

Yep, i agree. Old GAR wants to use the best of both worlds. Its not use denying CGI. It can help immensely. Particularly with crowd scenes. But, we dont want any 1/2 eaten faces like RE. That was so bad! Another good example was some of the CGI in Dawn 04. I agree with GAR's comments that some zombie crowd scenes looking like cans of worms, but i thought it was good. Andy's head being ripped off by the shotgun was great.

But, boy, isnt it exciting? It seems we are going to get the motherload here. Really mottled and dilapadated zombies - and Savini killing "himself"!!!

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

I have to quibble, it's my nature. CGI, to me is very rarely used effectively to make things look more realistic. example: Resident Evil, the CGI in that film looks atrocious and awful. CGI blood is no substitution for karo syrup and red food dye. But having said that, knowing Romero's desire to utilize it in only key ways I think in this case it will have the effect you are talking about. Much in the way that Peter Jackson utilized CGI in addition to physical makeup effects, I suspect Romero will use it to supplement the work, not takeover. So what we may get is a person in maekup who happens to have his guts digitally removed revealing simply a spinal collumn, or some such thing.

That will be the most satisfying use I can imagine.

No need to quibble, I agree with you, my point was in certain gorey situations, CGI is used to better effect than stop motion or camera angle or practical effects. Such as when people lose limbs or get holes punched in them.

[Brody]

The best CGI work is the kind we cant see.

[Monkey Mech X]

I notice this title has a familiar structure to Lord of the Rings... Lot of LOT movies out there, huh?

[Cybopath]

The best CGI work is the kind we cant see.I know what you mean, the stuff that we go wow but don't go "Cool CGI". Shaun of the Dead has some of the best unnoticable CGI stuff I've seen

[Sadogoat]

According to recent reports, Land Of The Dead is scheduled to hit cinemas on October 21st, 2005. Over 13 months from now.

[Zombpete]

Over a year away!!

Plenty of time for me to drool. :drool:

[The One Man Atrocity]

The best CGI work is the kind we cant see.

Here here! :clap:

[ShawnoftheDead]

Alas,the master of the dead movies is bringing us yet another(YAY!!!!!)Let's just hope he doesn't put Rap music in his movie(or TECHNO/RAVE),I would think that G.R. has more class.sorry guys,that music totally turns me off from enjoying a movie.if he does(which i have faith he won't) then Ill just wait for the dvd and turn the sound off and put on subtitles.there's always a way to shut them out.

[Brody]

I agree with.

I dont want to hear any POPULAR music. Id rather have a score and NOT the elevator music of DAWN.

[Zombie Minotaur]

Quiet you, the Dawn of the Dead elevator music is awesome. I loved how they put a little of it into Day of the Dead.

[Lasakon]

Quiet you, the Dawn of the Dead elevator music is awesome. I loved how they put a little of it into Day of the Dead.
I think he means the Remake and it's use of pop music.

[Sadogoat]

Quiet you, the Dawn of the Dead elevator music is awesome. I loved how they put a little of it into Day of the Dead.

Yeah, I was talking about that with one of my work colleagues the other day. If I recall rightly, it was a little remix of "The Gonk" wasn't it?

[Monkey Mech X]

Yeah they do a bit of the Gonk in the Dead Suite, if I recall.

[kmfdm56]

i cant believe this movie is finally going to get made.

[ieatbrains]

i cant believe this movie is finally going to get made.
i cant believe that theres another kmfdm fan on here

[ieatbrains]

so, is there any official site for the film yet?
or, at least, whats a good resource for news on it?

[Dr Evil]

HEY! I'm offended! I'm a KMFDM fan! I just got WWIII and saw them in concert in Sacramento. I got my playlist signed by every member, had a conversation with Sasha and Lucia, took pictures with Sasha, Lucia, and the bass player, (forgot his name) got the drummer's broken drumsticks, and on top of all that, was in the middle of the mosh pit.

Hehe. That's three.

[Bastard Turtle]

Well, on the subject of bands people don't like, anyone else a Marilyn Manson fan?

[corgi37]

Marilyn Manson!!??? Good lord, what a joke.

[the_klenzer]

What the hell does this have to do with LAND OF THE DEAD: OFFICIAL THREAD????

Go start a music thread in the Chat Forum

[Bastard Turtle]

Marilyn Manson!!??? Good lord, what a joke.

What, may I ask, is a joke about Marilyn Manson? But then Corgi, you may just not be one of the few that get it.

[corgi37]

I dont get people liking a clown like that. It aint music. Anyway, it aint LOTD either, so i will comment no more.

Except...

Shit, Marilyn Manson!

[zombiekilling101]

What the hell does this have to do with LAND OF THE DEAD: OFFICIAL THREAD????

Go start a music thread in the Chat Forum


yes well back on track here... wohooo land.

[goesaround]

Hey I need to hear something more then idle music chit chat. How come there is no word,no news, no buzz, no nothing! Please dont say the deal fell through..They were going to start filming in Oct. Any news, any new cast,? Eh?

[parker]

I bet this one will be the BEST ONE YET!!!

[Mervin Chip Chipperson]

More casting news... Yay!

http://www.comingsoon.net/news/topnews.php?id=6490

Simon Baker (The Ring 2), John Leguizamo (Assault on Precinct 13), Asia Argento, and Robert Joy are joining the previously cast Dennis Hopper in George A. Romero's Land of the Dead, which starts filming on October 11 in Toronto and will be distributed by Universal Pictures.

Written and directed by Romero, "Land of the Dead" is set in the modern world. The living inhabit a walled-in city, protected from the walking dead that populate the wasteland beyond. Baker, Argento and Leguizamo will all play a team of soldiers sent out to do battle with the gathering and evolving zombie threat in a fearsome, beweaponed tank-like vehicle called the Dead Reckoning.

Mark Canton, who is producing through his Atmosphere MM shingle, said the film also will feature cameos.

[corgi37]

Oh, man, this is great. An Aussie in a GAR flick!!! Rock on! Asia Argento - A-1. It's what GAR wanted. Fanstastic. And, last but not least, John Leguizamo. I love his stuff. "Billy Blanco from the Bronx!" hahaha.

Can you all believe this is happening? I mean, its really, finally, truly happening. With cameos!! is that good or bad? Ok, we got Savini. But, is he a cameo? I thought he had a actual part. Or, is his "Blades" considered a cameo.

Oh, hang on. Cameos?? Yes, yes, yes. My dream of Pete & Fran, sitting at a cafe could come true. And Sarah (in her multi colored shirt?) could also be there, with a black kid perhaps?

P.S. I hope Asia flashes her tattoo.

[goesaround]

Wow that is exciting, "Billy Blanco" deserved to be a zombie. Oh it's going to be good. A top notch cast and Senor Romero, wow.. I'm excited it's good I am going to see "Shawn of the Dead" in a few hours or I might have to watch "Night..90" or "Dawn" again. I will have to do this again before "Dead reckoning" What I do is this I play all three G.A.R movies in quick succession like they are one ongoing movie! It would be great to put them on one tape or cD and edited the credits After night right into T.V studio from coptor to coptor...

[outkast]

Holy shit! John Leguizamo is going to be in this one. Thats awesome. He is so damn funny. I don't know how he'll be in a zombie flick though. We'll have to see....

[zombiekilling101]

Ummmm im not sure if i like the fact that hes in it.. what type of roll does he play? hopefully not a main one.

[Jiisu]

Why are some of you guys so happy that John Leguizamo is in this flick. Hate to break it to you but the two serious roles I DID catch him in were Son Of Sam and Empire. SOS was good, but Empire was poop, prally thanks to fat joe.

He is more often than not a comedic actor. Who wants a comedian in a Zombie movie?

[Brody]

I saw this news and thought the same; I wouldnt cast him.

[corgi37]

Why? He' a good actor. I can see him as an oily, sneaky rich guy henchman, or a member of the Dead Reckoning crew. Funny thing though. No black actor has been announced yet. Wonder if GAR is going for a unknown?

[Sadogoat]

I was under the impression that the main character, Riley, was supposed to be black. Unless George has changed his mind.... (and since, as you've pointed out, no black actors have been announced yet).

[Bastard Turtle]

Well, wasn't one of Riley's best friends on the Dead Reckoning supposed to be a little simple-headed? Kinda like Mice And Men I think GAR said somewhere...So Leguizamo could play that, he already played a re-re in another movie that I can't remember the name of.

[corgi37]

Yeah, i remember that too. Well, of course, that was many drafts ago. GAR might have stream lined alot of the sub-plots. Still, i would be sad if no black dude was a hero.

Speaking of which - On the cast commentary on Dawn, Ken Foree said that when they switched endings mid-way through (to the happy ending we all know) he and Gaylen assumed it was because they would be in a sequel. He said loud and clear, if GAR wanted him for the 4th flick, he would love to do it. So, i hope some of the cameos that are planned, include Fran and Peter.

As i have requested many times. Come on, we all want it.

[Bastard Turtle]

I don't want the happy ending, and Dawn was not a happy ending, they got away from the Mall, woopity ****ing doo. Where the hell are they going? I don't want cameos just for the sake of cameos, but if they are going to be truly involved in the whole story, thats okay, but just to see them sitting in a restaurant or something? **** that.

[Monkey Mech X]

I figured they were going to the beach.

[Zombie Minotaur]

Why are some of you guys so happy that John Leguizamo is in this flick. Hate to break it to you but the two serious roles I DID catch him in were Son Of Sam and Empire. SOS was good, but Empire was poop, prally thanks to fat joe.

He is more often than not a comedic actor. Who wants a comedian in a Zombie movie?
He was godly in Romero & Juliet.

I keep wanting him in a Max Payne movie..... yeah, payne to the max!

[corgi37]

Well, i DO want Peter and Fran sitting in a restaurant. It's all part of ignoring the problem. And, i am older than you, so go to hell. Gimme what i want.

[Bastard Turtle]

Why does ignoring the problem have to be Fran and Peter sitting in a restaurant? But why am I worried? GAR wouldn't throw some BS like that in just for the hell of it, would he?

[awfulman]

I can't wait to see the zombies' makeup, I mean, they're not freshies anymore - these puppies will be old and verrrrry rotten! How long will have they rotted for? Ten years?!

[corgi37]

Would he throw some bs in like that? Mmmm, lemme see. Guys from Shaun of the dead making cameos. Savini was to play Blades, and another character, and "kill himself" and also announced that there WILL be cameos. Until recently, "machete" zombie, "nurse" zombie & "cardigan zombie" were going to be in it.

So, yeah, i'd say GAR is open to "throw some of that bs in".

Why not? It more than likely will be his last zombie film. Might as well have some fun with it. And, some of the cameos make sense. LOTD is set in Pittsburgh, just like 2 of the other 3.

[Sadogoat]

Why not? It more than likely will be his last zombie film. Might as well have some fun with it. And, some of the cameos make sense. LOTD is set in Pittsburgh, just like 2 of the other 3.

According to comments from the studio, they plan to extend the series beyond Land Of The Dead. Infact they've said it will be the first of several more zombie movies from Romero. Of course, whether or not he's been agreeable to this or not is another matter.

[Brody]

Im thinking UNIVERSAL is going to retain rights to this due to putting up the cash.

[DEAD-KNIGHT]

I'm getting goosebumps just thinking about this great film... check out www.themonsterlab.com for other great monster makers.

[zombiekilling101]

it would be fuc@#$ing awesome to see fran and peter. Even if its just them in a tracking shot or something... just to see them and be like.. bitch! i know them. HAHA

[Head Trauma]

I just saw Shaun of the Dead, oh my god I felt like I was high it had me laughing so much. The movie is brilliant.

[DEAD-KNIGHT]

I just saw Shaun of the Dead, oh my god I felt like I was high it had me laughing so much. The movie is brilliant.

THIS MOVIE ROCKS!!! this film would deffinantly make GAR's skin tingle... Had a lot of sad parts too. :cry:

[corgi37]

Shaun got a good review here in Oz in one of our Sunday papers. Not 100% sure when it opens. Mid-Oct i think. I think i'll wait for the dvd.

[analogzombie]

According to comments from the studio, they plan to extend the series beyond Land Of The Dead. Infact they've said it will be the first of several more zombie movies from Romero. Of course, whether or not he's been agreeable to this or not is another matter.

now maybe I am seeing the real slant Universal has intended all along. When they say more zombie films from George Romero, do they mean he'll be making them or just that they own the rights to the phrase "George A. Romero's (____blank___) of the Dead"? If they are buying the property they could conceivably get the rights to use his name and only have to give him a producer credit on all subsequent sequels.

Kind of like how Fox optioned sequels for 28 Days Later in the contract for that film's US release. They own the property rights and can do whatever they want so long as Garland and Boyle get producer credits. A friend of mine is friend's with the chic who played the young daughter in 28DL. She doesn't know anything about the sequel, or even that one was in the works. So that tells you how much the studios have to disclose to people involved in the original. Not that she was a key player in the film's creation min you, but still it seems odd to me.

[Cyber Bishop]

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0418819/

Ooh, that sexy little minx Asia Argento from XXX is in LOTD!!

[corgi37]

Now, when does shooting start? Wasnt it supposed to be the 11th of Oct? I think i read some where the start has been pushed back a couple of weeks.

I certainly hope any Canadians on this site are going to be snooping around for our benefit!

[guerrilla]

omg asia argento in land of the dead. how awesome. i have just about every one of her movies available in the US like scarlet diva, dario argento's the church, stendahl syndrome, and phantom of the opera, etc. wow i didn't think any one aspect of the movie could increase my desire to see this movie any more, but knowing asia is in it just makes it that much better. dennis hopper is a welcome surprise, but i couldn't care less about leguizamo.

[DEAD-KNIGHT]

I can't stand LEGUIZAMO! his accent makes him sound like he's slobbering... what a weiner, I hope he dies in the flick, anyone remeber EXECUTIVE DECISION with Steven Segal and LEGUIZAMO, what a bunch of weiners...

[zombiekilling101]

I can't stand LEGUIZAMO! his accent makes him sound like he's slobbering... what a weiner, I hope he dies in the flick, anyone remeber EXECUTIVE DECISION with Steven Segal and LEGUIZAMO, what a bunch of weiners...


yeah that movie blew.. well i despise steven segal anyway.

[guerrilla]

like i said, i could definitely do without leguizamo, however, i'll overlook it since it's a Romero zombie film and has Asia Argento and Dennis Hopper in it.

[corgi37]

Did you know Segal as a cd out? Made the top 10 in France!

[goesaround]

Laugh all you want at Segal. But he's one brave SOB. I mean in real life. Who he stood up to...Fergetaboutit.But this is about zombies so lets stay there otherwise read 'People' magazine. When does 'LOD' the movie actually start filming. Has it actually started? Do you all appreciate the fact that please the Creator we are actually really going to have another George Romero Zombie movie!!!Oh boy Oh boy! I mean are you as crazy excited as I am?

[corgi37]

Do you actually read any posts?

[Jiisu]

Do you actually read any posts?

No.


As for the black actor that was talked about a few pages ago as not being announced, I think that Peter should be a main character in this one. It would make sense since he survived and all. And Fran should also be there since she also survived. I mean I doubt they would try and take down a helicopter if it came flying into the city. :-p

[Zombie Minotaur]

Do you all appreciate the fact that please the Creator we are actually really going to have another George Romero Zombie movie!!!Oh boy Oh boy! I mean are you as crazy excited as I am?
My excitement can't be put into words.


so....


Blah moog shnurt moryt thallloopydoop. WARETYTOOT!

[corgi37]

JIisu - I agree with having Peter & Fran in it. I mean, why cant one of the characters be their kid or something. Second thoughts, nah. GAR has all 3 flicks as self contained.

But, you mention about them flying a chopper into the city and not being shot down. Well, yeah, maybe. But, did they have enough fuel? I doubt the city would have been fortified anyway, as things get pretty much to the end in Day. I'd say the fortification would have taken a long time. Just my guess.

Still, who cares? I just want to see this so bad. It's going to be a long year waiting for it.

[Bastard Turtle]

They didn't have enough fuel to make it back to Pittsburgh, they had to stop and get full leaving from Pittsburgh in Dawn, and then they kept right on moving. There is no way they had enough fuel to get back to Pittsburgh.

[goesaround]

How come no one is reporting production buzz? Has anything new been released? Have they started production? I'll tell you what I just rented "Unspeakable" with Dennis Hopper. The back of the DVD said it was Hoppers best work in a long time. If that is the case I have to worry about his performance in LOTD. He was laughable and so was the movie. In one scene when they are frying the villian I saw Lance Henrickson actually laugh! he's been relegated to playing the elder liberal lawyer..Boy! What is wrong with that image?Anyway I was glad kinda about Hopper in 'Land of the Dead'. Much less now after "Unspaekable" They should call it "Unwatchable". Any news on production for LOTD? I know one of you knows something..

[corgi37]

Doesnt filming start this week? Or, has is been pushed back a bit.

[DEAD-KNIGHT]

OMG!!! i have to be retarded or have lived under a rock for the last like 21 years of my life... I just found out that TOM SAVINI is SEX MACHINE from "DUSK TILL DAWN" man i'm a loser...

[zombiekilling101]

OMG!!! i have to be retarded or have lived under a rock for the last like 21 years of my life... I just found out that TOM SAVINI is SEX MACHINE from "DUSK TILL DAWN" man i'm a loser...

haha. Did u not notice him being savini or did it not register.but oh well.

[DEAD-KNIGHT]

actually i just never got a look at Savini than never knew SEX MACHINES real name... but he was damn cool as the biker with giant sledge hammer in DOTD 78'

[zombiekilling101]

actually i just never got a look at Savini than never knew SEX MACHINES real name... but he was damn cool as the biker with giant sledge hammer in DOTD 78'

that he was, that he was (single tear rolls down face)

[dead filmaker]

that would be weird if jon lego was in it but on a lighter note who is going to show there true zombie alligence and go be an extra coz i am and i think if you dont you shouldn't get to see the movie(just kidding but seriously be an extra you know how much fun that would be savini or nicataro would do some crazy shit to you and you would be in the movie just thinking of it makes me feel all a tinggle)

[corgi37]

Will you use the English language the way it was meant to be used! Argh!

Oh, and Savini was really good as the biker with the sledge-hammer. Yes, really good. That was a perfect example of his make up FX expertise. It was so good! I mean, he looked just like Taso Stavrakos!

[Kicken]

that would be weird if jon lego was in it but on a lighter note who is going to show there true zombie alligence and go be an extra coz i am and i think if you dont you shouldn't get to see the movie(just kidding but seriously be an extra you know how much fun that would be savini or nicataro would do some crazy shit to you and you would be in the movie just thinking of it makes me feel all a tinggle)


TROLL ALERT!!!

:loon:

[w1234]

What the hell's a troll alert?

Casting for zombie extras was a little over a month ago, in Toronto (my hometown, kinda.) So, you are a little late ZombieFilmmaker, they have already started production, my buddies found some trailers (as in where the cast and crew hang out during shooting) with land of the dead signs on them, just outside of the SkyDome. When I go home for winter break, I'm camping outside GAR's trailer. But, I'm not a stalker or anything :evil:

[zombiekilling101]

yes what is this troll you speak of. ive heard it alot the past few days but dont know what the hell it is.

[Zombie Minotaur]

Oh, and Savini was really good as the biker with the sledge-hammer. Yes, really good. That was a perfect example of his make up FX expertise. It was so good! I mean, he looked just like Taso Stavrakos!
Savini was the biker with the machedi (why he was named Blades). The guy with the sledgehammer was his make-up assistant or something. Without him doing that part, Dawn wouldn't have had that cool machedi in the zombie's head scene. And that was some awesome FX.

[ZombieMannXIII]

What the hell's a troll alert?


Isn't a troll someone that posts on a forum and tries to piss people off?

[w1234]

Isn't a troll someone that posts on a forum and tries to piss people off?

Oh, well, if that's the case, dead filmaker fits right into that category. Except I don't know if it's intentional, I think his demeanor just pisses people off.

[Kicken]

Isn't a troll someone that posts on a forum and tries to piss people off?

That's right!

[corgi37]

Zombie minotaur, how old are you? Do you know what "sarcasm" is?? I ****ing know who Tom Savini is, who he played, and everything else. The other guy DIDNT know, and...

Never mind.

[dead filmaker]

how did i become a troll, how did i piss you people off, i just threw some humor into a couple of posts that i made and instently i am public enemy #1

i wasn't aware that this was english class either iswear some of you are so critical, god its a message board for fun you don't have to be jackass just coz sombody spells a word wrong

i m going to be a man and say sorry for what ever it is that i did that so strongly offedned everyone so here it is "sorry" maybe from now on we can all get along

[Zombie Minotaur]

Zombie minotaur, how old are you? Do you know what "sarcasm" is?? I ****ing know who Tom Savini is, who he played, and everything else. The other guy DIDNT know, and...

Never mind.Sarcasm is something that is detected by the tone of one's voice. The main word here is "voice." Can I hear what you are saying? No, you are obviously writing out what you are thinking. Either cut out the sarcasm or write out that you are being sarcastic. Here's an example:

You're obviously much older than I am because being a dick to dead filmaker is a very mature thing to do.



Not. <------- (This is what I mean. Use it.)

[dead filmaker]

thank you minotaur

hey your from San Francisco, i live in that :poo: town just under you, you know santa cruz

[w1234]

Sarcasm is something that is detected by the tone of one's voice. The main word here is "voice." Can I hear what you are saying? No, you are obviously writing out what you are thinking. Either cut out the sarcasm or write out that you are being sarcastic. Here's an example:

You're obviously much older than I am because being a dick to dead filmaker is a very mature thing to do.



Not. <------- (This is what I mean. Use it.)
Sarcasm is overstating the opposite an obvious or known fact for the sake of irony or mockery. It is a linguistic tool, linguistics can be written or spoken. Quite frankly, sarcasm isn't hard to detect in writing. If you are gonna preach english, learn the rules first.

Plus, who the **** says "not" anymore? You are a real winner in my book, Minotaur. (That was sarcasm, didn't want you to miss it.)

[corgi37]

That might be a bit too much for them to comprehend.

Now, wasnt Tom Savini so cool in Day of the Dead when the zombies ripped his head from his body!


Now, THAT is sarcasm.


P.S. Minotaur, zombiefilmmaker - If you write down and correct me, then you obviously dont get it.

[dead filmaker]

no i understand sarcasm i would just like to know why i was being called into question about the hole thingcoz i did not say you were wrong i knew you were making a joke

[checksum]

Hmmm, I'm way looking forward to it... but I really hope they don't screw it by the whole 'evolved' zombie thing. I noted in posts around the web about the script they were referred to as 'walkers' ie the shambling mass. "The true terror that makes the series so good"

I really really hope Fox hasnt made Romero "spice" up his zombies this would be really sad, so many mainstream films are getting dummed down these days.
( I personally though the recent remake was utter crap - in comparison that is )

This is some of the best horror of all time I have high hopes fo this film

[Dagnammit]

So, filming began on Monday. How long can I expect to sit here biting my nails in anticipation before someone in Toronto finally takes the intiative and sneaks a bunch of cool set pics onto the net (a la DotD 2004)?

And, by the way, checksum - You'll be glad to know that Fox no longer has anything to do with Land of the Dead. It is being produced and funded by an independent company called Atmosphere Entertainment and distributed by Universal (who don't really have anything to do with the funding or production of the movie). Apparently Romero has very good creative control this time around.

Oh, and "evolving ghouls" doesn't refer to zombies growing wings or learning to run or anything crazy like that. It is simply an extension of the Bub idea from Day of the Dead, that some zombies are recalling details of their human lives and developing very basic emotions (most notably, empathy for their own kind) and problem solving skills. They are still slow moving and very stupid by human standards, but the developing "intelligence" combined with their vast numbers makes them a far greater threat.

[Zombie Minotaur]

Sarcasm is overstating the opposite an obvious or known fact for the sake of irony or mockery. It is a linguistic tool, linguistics can be written or spoken. Quite frankly, sarcasm isn't hard to detect in writing. If you are gonna preach english, learn the rules first.

Plus, who the **** says "not" anymore? You are a real winner in my book, Minotaur. (That was sarcasm, didn't want you to miss it.) Here is the definition of sarcasm by Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarcasm):

"Sarcasm is the making of remarks intended to mock the person referred to (who is normally the person addressed), a situation or thing. It is often used in a humorous (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humor) manner and expressed through particular vocal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speech) intonations (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intonation). This is often done by simply over-emphasizing the actual statement, or particular words of it. Because it is vocally-oriented, sarcasm is often hard to pick up in written messages. The word comes from the Late Latin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin) word, sarcasmus, which, in turn, comes from the Greek (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_language) sarkasmos, from sarkazein - to bite the lips in rage,- from sarx, sark-, flesh (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flesh).

The term is often misused as a synonym (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synonym) for irony (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irony)."


I bolded the most important point to this discussion.

[Bastard Turtle]

Alright, filming has started. Glad that there isn't going to be some last minute fall-through this time.

[w1234]

Here is the definition of sarcasm by Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarcasm):

"Sarcasm is the making of remarks intended to mock the person referred to (who is normally the person addressed), a situation or thing. It is often used in a humorous (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humor) manner and expressed through particular vocal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speech) intonations (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intonation). This is often done by simply over-emphasizing the actual statement, or particular words of it. Because it is vocally-oriented, sarcasm is often hard to pick up in written messages. The word comes from the Late Latin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin) word, sarcasmus, which, in turn, comes from the Greek (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_language) sarkasmos, from sarkazein - to bite the lips in rage,- from sarx, sark-, flesh (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flesh).

The term is often misused as a synonym (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synonym) for irony (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irony)."


I bolded the most important point to this discussion.

Wow, minotaur, you never cease to amaze me. I finally understand the kind of person you are, and I refuse to argue with you anymore.

Peace.

[corgi37]

Hey Dagnammit - "empathy for their own kind". Whoa!! That IS a different slant. I wonder if that means they would mourn any destroyed ghouls. Maybe trying to rescue captured zombies?

1 of James Gunn's original ideas for the Dawn remake was to have zombies doing things they used to do in life, until food came along of course. A postman would forever be trying to "deliver" the mail. A truck driver would be, i dunno, trying to drive i guess. I thought it was a cool idea, but they scrapped it.

LOTD is going to be interesting.

[goesaround]

"Started filming in monday" do you realize if G-D forbid they stop filming today there will be at leat 5 days of film already produced. Man I am happy they started pulling the trigger. Hey what is the url address of the LOD site that was started independently. I saw it here registered and now cant find it!! Point the way Hawkeye!

[Dagnammit]

Hey Dagnammit - "empathy for their own kind". Whoa!! That IS a different slant. I wonder if that means they would mourn any destroyed ghouls. Maybe trying to rescue captured zombies?

I know this may sound silly, but over on the IMDB someone who had read the final draft mentioned that there was a Bub-like zombie who learns to hate humans (as opposed to just mindlessly wanting to eat them). He is constantly seeing men killing the undead in for sport etc. and even makes bumbling (failed) attempts to protect his fellow zombies when they are shot at. After a while, other ghouls begin to follow him around, not like an organised group with him as leader, but like dogs following the leader of their pack or whatever.

It could turn out cheesy, but apparently it works really well in the script.

[Monkey Mech X]

Taken from a post of mine in the LOD Cameo topic:

I'm just worried that GAR is going to make these cameos of characters as a way of closure, the sense that this movie will be the last of his zombie epics.

By showing characters/their kids from the previous Dead movies in this next entry, it seems to state that this is the last we're going to see of the series.

Sort of like Return of the Jedi with Obi Wan, Yoda and Anakin appearing at the end. Sure the Star Wars stories continue long after ROTJ, but movie-wise they're pretty much done.

Again, I don't like the idea of all these cameos, but GAR is most likely doing this to appease fans and/or make jokes. And by making jokes, I mean in a new way only possible now that the series has aged so well. Only at this time could Romero make little hints of the past movies and have them actually be meaningful and funny while still making sense.

Hopefully (and most likely), George will be making new characters in Land of the Dead; characters that are as good and lovable/hateable as the previous players.

And maybe, so much so, that ten years from now I can bitch about them or their kids cameoing in Solar System of the Dead.

[corgi37]

Just read yesterday they filmed a scene of zombies coming out of the water. It was filmed at a local water park or something. GAR has spoken of this scene before. He said (jokingly) that he had an idea of zombies walking underwater, similar to what happened in Pirates of the Caribbean.

Dont ask for a link, i move to fast on the net to look for links. But, it was mentioned on the LOTD board at IMDB. A link is there.

But, dont worry about links. Just rely on old Uncle Corgi to keep you up to date.

[Dagnammit]

*SCRIPT DEATILS!! HERE BE SPOILERS!!*











Well folks, I've read the script. And you know what, this might just turn out to be the best movie in the series. No bullshit!!

The characters are perfect, the dialogue is great, there is tons of fast-paced action, the gore is hard and fast (comic book style splatter like Dawn of the Dead, as opposed to the brutal nastiness of Day) and the social commentary is as sharp as ever. The script actually made me wonder how they are going to pull this off on $20 million, it read more like a $30-40 million movie, but I guess Romero is pretty good at stretching his budgets.

The zombies are fantastic too. I don't want to give too much away, but as I expected, they don't evolve physically in any way and they do not run. To be precise, most of them probably move about the speed of the ghouls in Day of the Dead - a little faster and stronger than the mall-shufflers but a hell of a lot slower than anything in the Dawn remake.

The mental "evolution" of the zombies is not an "evolution" as such, it is simply that they have had about 10 years to learn some human functions again. They don't talk or make petrol bombs or anything, but there are three ghouls which seem more intelligent than the rest (one in particular) who use weapons Bub-style. 99.9% of the undead are as dull and mindless as ever. It might sound a little silly on paper, but I think this will work on-screen, and I really think that these three "walkers" will join Dr. Logan's favourite pupil in that special place in zombie fans' hearts.

If anyone wants a copy of the script, I'm sorry but I can't send it. I don't want this to get spread to every geek on the net as it could possibly hurt the movie, and the last thing I want on my conscience is that. However, if you feel you really must hunt this script down... have a look on the HPOTD forums, you might find someone willing to help you there.














*SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS*

[Monkey Mech X]

Ah man, you can send me one. I'm not going to spread it, and if anyone would, do you think we would?

We're more trustworthy than most anyother place.

[Zombie Minotaur]

I believe I speak for everyone when I ask:

Who do I have to kill?

[corgi37]

I love the way you've got "spoilers" in large print AFTER you've told us some gossip! hahaha, love it.

It all sounds terrific. Keep the script, i dont want it. I just want the movie!

[corgi37]

Oh, sorry, missed the "spoilers" alert up the top.

Still think its funny though.

Oh, and another thing. Why is the release date so far away? Shooting finishes in December, doesnt it? And release date is, what, Oct 05?

I mean, whats the deal?

[Lasakon]

Oh, sorry, missed the "spoilers" alert up the top.

Still think its funny though.

Oh, and another thing. Why is the release date so far away? Shooting finishes in December, doesnt it? And release date is, what, Oct 05?

I mean, whats the deal?
A little thing called Post-Production.

[Bastard Turtle]

You rule, Dag!

[devourthesun]

Yeah, Post production is a bitch, but lets see, December they finish shooting, that means he's got 9 months to do post.......IT DOESNT TAKE 9 MONTHS TO DO POST! 5 or 6 maybe but 9! Well, probely has to touch up special effects, add music, etc. Still nine months of post production is quite a bit.

[Dagnammit]

Yeah, Post production is a bitch, but lets see, December they finish shooting, that means he's got 9 months to do post.......IT DOESNT TAKE 9 MONTHS TO DO POST! 5 or 6 maybe but 9! Well, probely has to touch up special effects, add music, etc. Still nine months of post production is quite a bit.

If they finish post-production six months after the movie is finished, that would put them right in the middle of summer blockbuster territory, which would be totally unfair to Romero. As good as this movie is going to be, can you realistically see it beating the latest CGI shitacular or Tom Cruise vehicle in terms of reciepts?

October is the perfect time to release Land of the Dead. It is a relatively quiet time of year in terms of new releases, so an event movie like this could clean up at the box office and put Romero back at the top. In fact, a couple of weeks later would be preferable - releasing it just in time for next halloween.

[Sadogoat]

NEWS UPDATE

The first photos from the Land Of The Dead set are now online, but sadly they don't really show anything aside from locations (although you can spot George himself in one of them). Apparently the two blurry night photos show a glimpse of the 'Dead Reckoning' vehicle - but not enough to really give you much of an impression of it.

Click here to take a look (http://freezedriedmovies.com/gallery/photodir.php?dir=178)

Also, the casting call has gone out for zombie extras....here's the details from Bloody Disgusting.com:

"You can call 416-633-2442 or fax 416-633-9440 to be an extra in George Romero's long awaited fourth zombie massacre. The film, which is currently set for an October 21st release, stars Simon Baker, John Leguizamo, Dennis Hopper, Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg, Asia Argento and Phil Fondacaro."

Of course, it'd probably help if you lived in Canada - or at least close to it. :D

[Dagnammit]

Apparently the two blurry night photos show a glimpse of the 'Dead Reckoning' vehicle - but not enough to really give you much of an impression of it.

Looks kinda reminiscent of a larger version of the armoured trucks they used in the Dawn remake, don't it?

[zombiekilling101]

i hope the sets are going to be really good. Like there would be alot of tall grass casue who would be mowing it? and stuff like that.

[Bastard Turtle]

Me likes what me sees.

[goesaround]

How excitng see those pictures is that. The one with the minivan and the autumn leaves actually gave me a scare.. a premoniiton if you will. I dont want to see the script. Pictures, gossip, yes but the whole story hell no! I mean look at all the work he and the crew are putting in to make this his vision. I would only be cheating myself to know the ending?!! It's a little like shaking the boxes on Christmas eve, that's o.k. But to actually tear the wrapping, that would be a travesty

[corgi37]

Doesnt GAR look great!

[Lonesome Bones]

Yeah, this is getting real exciting. It's great just to know that this movie is finally getting made.

[Brody]

Those are nice grabs. Only thing I worry about is the meticulousy landscaped areas. I hope those arent in the frame. At this time in zombie apocalypse there would be nothing but dead grass, weeds, overgrown vines (just let your yard go untouched for about 10 years). I am so stoked on this film.

[goesaround]

Nut that I am I called the number Sadogoats was so generous in offering to register to be a zombie. Frankly I dont want to be a zombie I just wanted to hear people from the movie! Guess who answers..George Romero! Naa.. I wish. But someone answers the phone "Land of the Dead"!!! So I asked about being a zombie and they said that was pretty much cast. But just to call was cool. (And a little not cool) I mean there really is little else(Im being generous with even 'little') that works on so many levels as George's zombies. Hell I just read The 'Rising' and I prettu much hated it! I'm saying this here rather then on the book page because I do not want to hurt the authors feelings and I see he reads them. He is a good writer, the drug withdrawl was stupendous during a outbreak, but talking Demon zombies...Plotting and planning !!! To me it takes all the mystery and mysticism away from the fact that dead bodies are reanimating..I love theories. That is why I listen to every word of Romeros news casts not comic book thesis. But as far as George Romero himself oh boy we each know how excited the other is. How happy are we that this is please G-D really,really happening. It is so dream come truish that saying it dosent even touch it..

[corgi37]

Outland - I disagree. The manicured lawns, and nice houses, is EXACTLY what we should expect. After all, life goes on. They are ignoring the problem. Carrying on. The place is fortified. The "Dead Reckoning" goes out and gets supplies. I think its a great premise.

All the fresh coats of paint, manicured lawns, lovely gardens, open air cafes, cant hide the fact danger and doom is not far away. No matter how much they try.

Imagine an opening shot. Slowly panning camera. Automatic sprinklers come on. A young couple holding hands walks by. An elderly man sitting in a lovely garden, feeding pidgeons. The camera rolls along. Passing a cafe with smartly dressed people enjoying themselves. THe camera, on a crane, then begins to rise. It turns, showing a massive wall. THe crane rises further, the camera gives us a panarmaic view of a functioning, happy, ignorant society. The camera then pans left. Towards the wall. Rises. And over the wall we see tens of thousands of zombies clambering at the structure.

They are still hungry.

Cue title "George A. Romero's - "Land of the Dead"


Now, that is a great opening.

Shit, i should be a film maker!

[Bastard Turtle]

Corgi, you definetly have a great idea for an opening, thats ****ing great!

[gettowitch]

I'm going to try to call to be an 'extra'. I doubt they will need me, but my man lives in Windsor and we can take a quick drive up to check it out maybe.

[Dagnammit]

Outland - I disagree. The manicured lawns, and nice houses, is EXACTLY what we should expect. After all, life goes on. They are ignoring the problem. Carrying on. The place is fortified. The "Dead Reckoning" goes out and gets supplies. I think its a great premise.

All the fresh coats of paint, manicured lawns, lovely gardens, open air cafes, cant hide the fact danger and doom is not far away. No matter how much they try.

Imagine an opening shot. Slowly panning camera. Automatic sprinklers come on. A young couple holding hands walks by. An elderly man sitting in a lovely garden, feeding pidgeons. The camera rolls along. Passing a cafe with smartly dressed people enjoying themselves. THe camera, on a crane, then begins to rise. It turns, showing a massive wall. THe crane rises further, the camera gives us a panarmaic view of a functioning, happy, ignorant society. The camera then pans left. Towards the wall. Rises. And over the wall we see tens of thousands of zombies clambering at the structure.

They are still hungry.

Cue title "George A. Romero's - "Land of the Dead"


Now, that is a great opening.

Shit, i should be a film maker!


SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS


Actually, this scene (in the pics) takes place outside the fortified city - in a zombie-infested town called Uniontown, where the Dead Reckoning and crew show up to scavenge supplies.

[Monkey Mech X]

I think I can elaborate and make the opening more interesting... Let's see:
---
Start out with previous mentions of a lovely little town, well-kempt and apparently cheerful. But before anything else, let the camera come down into a quaint cottage, the setting early morning.

Go over the walls void of pre-living dead pictures, instead show pictures of a middle-aged man with hunting parties, holding up heads of people.

Cut to the same man, a bit older and greyer in the hair, lying in his bed.

When his wife comes in and sees he's not breathing, she shoots her husband in the head. After this shocking moment, she picks up the phone and, in a cold voice, speaks into the receiver.

The audience is left wondering what is going on as a dump truck pulls up to the lovely-looking little cottage, and men and women in biohazard suits rush into the house, toting assault rifles.

The uglier side of the heavenly citadel's setting has reared it's head; cadaver patrols.

Even if he's just a dead body lying in the bed, his wife (and probably the rest of the city's residents) know what will come if they let the dead idle. She stares on quietly, her eyes not that much different than her husband's glassy stare as the cadaver soldiers check the corpses eyes, giving it a once over. Does she feel as dead as the body in what was once both her and her now-gone husband's bedroom? Does she feel alone now? Lost in a pointless void of human ego?

The soldiers put the body on a stretcher, leaving one or two women behind to businessly console the newly-widowed soul, while the others cart the body, treating it with disdain, all in knowing fear of the plague it potentially harbors.

They unceremoniously toss the body in the back of the dump truck, jump in the driver seats and drive off into the distance.

A light rain starts as the sky takes a grey overtone. The truck pulls up to a garish wall and the troopers put the body on a rickety elevator-platform. They wave to a man standing above them in the tower, a rifle slung over his shoulder and a gas mask on top his head, cigarette dangling from his mouth. He gives the ok-sign with his hand, and the men drive off.

The body is jerkily raised up the bony structure, the elevator apparently well-used. The masked man grabs the corpse by it's feet, pulls it off the platform and slings it onto a conveyor made of rolling metal cylinders, reminding the viewers of a cremation chamber. The body quickly rolls off the tower and over the wall. As the body falls, the title "Land of the Dead" superimposes over the body as it lands in a crowd of shambling living dead, most of which is picking among a pile of dead bodies with feverent and unknown need.


---

This shows what I feel the movie would be like. The people are living a lie and they know it. They all have detached their feelings and yet try their best to hide the hell it must put on them. All in an attempt to live as normally (in the past) as possible.

It looks cheery and normal on the inside of the city, but as soon as Death steps into the human utopia threshhold, they must automatically go into a kill-or-be-killed autostate, dealing with the situation in a decidely non-humane way.

All this imagery could be used in allusion that the world will never be the same as it once was. The city in whole is a peaceful dream/escape from the nightmarish events of the waking world/reality.

[Dagnammit]

Okay, lets end the speculation. Want to know how it really starts? (I may be going out on a limb here, and I may delete this soon, but it has already been posted over on DJfunkmaster's website, so here goes...)



SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS MAJOR ****ING SPOILERS....

NOTE: This is an actual except from the George A. Romero script. Hopefully I'm not breaking any laws since I am giving him the credit for his work, and only using a small chunk of the material. However, if anyone knows differently, let me know immediately and I'll take it down...
























BLACK. THE SOUND OF CHANNELS BEING TURNED ON A TV. TITLE UP:
“SOME TIME AGO”.


NEWSCASTER (O.S.)
It’s hard for us here to believe
what we’re reporting to you, but it
does seem to be a fact.


CLICK! In a corner of the BLACK SCREEN, A SMALL TV APPEARS.
On it, in BLACK & WHITE, A NEWSCASTER sits at an anchor desk.


NEWSCASTER (O.S.)
Bodies of the recently dead are
returning to life and attacking the
living.


CLICK! With each CLICK, the TV disappears, then reappears in
a new position ON SCREEN. CREDITS ROLL in the surrounding
BLACK.


NEWSCASTER (O.S.)
Murder victims have shown signs of
having been partially devoured by
their murderers.


CLICK! ANOTHER NEWSCASTER is on the TV now, sitting in a more
modern studio. The broadcast remains in BLACK & WHITE.


SECOND NEWSCASTER
Because of the obvious threat to
untold numbers of citizens, due
to the crisis that is now
developing this radio station will
remain on the air day and night.


CLICK! The second newscaster looks more and more dishevelled.


SECOND NEWSCASTER (O.S.)
It has been established that persons
who have recently died have been
returning to life and eating the
flesh of the living.

CLICK!


SECOND NEWSCASTER (O.S.)
We must not be lulled by the
concept that these are our family
members or our friends. They are not.
They must be destroyed on sight.


CLICK! A THIRD NEWSCASTER, more haggard than the others, sits
at an ANCHOR DESK on a barren set, still in BLACK & WHITE.

2.

THIRD NEWSCASTER (O.S.)
Every dead body that is not
exterminated becomes one of them.
It gets up and kills. The people it
kills get up and kill. They kill
for one reason. They kill for food.


CLICK!


THIRD NEWSCASTER (O.S.)
If this situation is allowed to
continue, there will be nothing
left. Nothing.


CLICK!


THIRD NEWSCASTER (CONT’D)
It’s over. Finished. Finished. It’s
their world now.


CLICK! IN ABSOLUTE BLACK, A SINGLE WORD FADES UP: “TODAY”. A
SOUND FADES IN TOO. TCHICK! KA-TCHICK-TCHICKY-TCHICK! Soft.
Metallic. It makes us nervous...






And that's all I'm gonna give you. I'm not gonna give away any more info on the script from now it. That's it, the wad is blown, so to speak ;)

[gettowitch]

what i like about that opening is that he used all the newscast blurbs from the other movies. good way to tie them together.

[zombiekilling101]

is simon baker (pettingal from red planet) playing the lead. or is the dead reckoning commander going to be hopper?

[Monkey Mech X]

Terrible script! That's all we get? News broadcasts? What does that have to do with the now long-dead world of Land of the Dead? Nothing!

[gettowitch]

Terrible script! That's all we get? News broadcasts? What does that have to do with the now long-dead world of Land of the Dead? Nothing!

C'mon Mech X! That sounds like just the teaser before the credits. Let's give the whole script or film it's day in court.

[Bastard Turtle]

Wow, there's some blurbs during the credits that only set mood and provide a bit of exposition. Heaven forbid that something like that happen in a movie.

^sarcasm.

[Dagnammit]

First (awesome) pictures of the Dead Reckoning vehicle and random apocalyptic devastation...

http://www.moviesonline.ca/movienews_1561.html?PHPSESSID=0a5eea6cda5c852f6a72 a4ef45cc2904