One of the most effective, and important, horror films of the 1960's.
This film is one of the most influential films in American cinema history, both for its massive contribution to all horror films, but its role in shaping American independent cinema also. It's honestly shocking to think of all the amazing films that wouldn't exist without this initial spark, and what a bright spark it is.
More than just an important milestone, 'NotLD' remains a stellar horror film to this day. With excellent writing, a perfect atmosphere and beautiful black and white cinematography. Even now, despite the over-saturation of zombie films we have, nothing has been made which is quite like the progenitor (aside the 1990's remake). Its hopeless and desperate situation, its brief timespan (as the title suggests, only one night), and its shocking ending all remain mostly unique to this single film 46 years after its release.
The film does show its age, and low budget at times. However this is only 2-3% of the time, the other 97-98% you are stuck wondering how so much timeless brilliance can be squeezed into a single (relatively short) horror film. The tight location is used to its full and that simple cabin in the woods has become the parent to all others in the many decades to follow.
Overall, it's 'NotLD'. What more can you expect other than glowing praise?
More than just an important milestone, 'NotLD' remains a stellar horror film to this day. With excellent writing, a perfect atmosphere and beautiful black and white cinematography. Even now, despite the over-saturation of zombie films we have, nothing has been made which is quite like the progenitor (aside the 1990's remake). Its hopeless and desperate situation, its brief timespan (as the title suggests, only one night), and its shocking ending all remain mostly unique to this single film 46 years after its release.
The film does show its age, and low budget at times. However this is only 2-3% of the time, the other 97-98% you are stuck wondering how so much timeless brilliance can be squeezed into a single (relatively short) horror film. The tight location is used to its full and that simple cabin in the woods has become the parent to all others in the many decades to follow.
Overall, it's 'NotLD'. What more can you expect other than glowing praise?
Originally posted 8/10/14 on IMDB.com, as part of HALLOWEEN HORROR REVIEWS 2014
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