"Night of the Living Dead," released in 1968, was controversial for several reasons. Firstly, it was one of the first films to depict graphic violence and gore, challenging the norms of horror cinema at the time. Secondly, its themes of racial tension and social commentary were groundbreaking; the casting of a Black actor, Duane Jones, in a leading role was significant, especially given the racial climate of the 1960s. The film's ambiguous ending and portrayal of societal collapse also sparked debates about morality and human nature, making it a landmark in horror and cinema history.

As of October 2023, there are several films in the "Night of the Living Dead" franchise. The original 1968 film directed by George A. Romero spawned a series of sequels and remakes. Notable entries include "Dawn of the Dead" (1978), "Day of the Dead" (1985), and remakes of the original, such as the 1990 version and the 2006 animated adaptation. Additionally, there have been various unofficial sequels and spin-offs. The franchise has had a significant impact on the zombie genre in film and television.

"The Night of the Living Dead," released in 1968, is often credited with popularizing the modern zombie genre, but it was not the first zombie movie. The film redefined zombies as flesh-eating, undead creatures, a departure from earlier portrayals influenced by voodoo and folklore. Prior films like "White Zombie" (1932) and "I Walked with a Zombie" (1943) featured zombies, but they typically depicted them as mind-controlled beings. "Night of the Living Dead" established the characteristics and themes that define the genre today.

"Night of the Living Dead," directed by George A. Romero and released in 1968, is considered a seminal horror film that effectively combines social commentary with suspense. Its black-and-white cinematography and chilling atmosphere contribute to its impact. The film features intense moments of fear and dread, particularly as the characters face relentless hordes of zombies. While it may not have the graphic violence of contemporary horror films, its psychological tension and unsettling themes make it genuinely scary for viewers, especially for those unfamiliar with the genre.