Night of the Living Dead: Just Girl -- A Cinematic Masterpiece that Explores Gendered Violence

Night of the Living Dead (1968),directed by George A. Romero, is an iconic horror film that has had a profound impact on the genre. The film's chilling depiction of a zombie apocalypse has captivated audiences for decades, and its social commentary on race and class has been widely discussed. However, one aspect of the film that has often been overlooked is its exploration of gendered violence.

The film's protagonist, Barbara, is a complex and compelling character who embodies the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity. However, she also faces numerous challenges and dangers, many of which are rooted in her gender. This essay will explore the ways in which Night of the Living Dead uses Barbara's experiences to critique gendered violence and offer a nuanced perspective on the role of women in horror films.

Night of the Living Dead: Just a Girl

by S. Frances Robbins

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	39656 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	14 pages

FREE

Barbara as a Feminist Icon

Barbara is one of the most iconic female characters in horror film history. She is a strong, resourceful, and determined woman who refuses to be victimized by the horrors that surround her. In a genre that is often dominated by male characters, Barbara's presence as a capable and courageous protagonist is groundbreaking.

Barbara's strength is not just physical, but also emotional. She is able to maintain her composure and make rational decisions even in the most chaotic and terrifying situations. She is also compassionate and caring, and she is willing to put herself in danger to help others.

Barbara's feminist credentials are further cemented by her refusal to conform to traditional gender roles. She is not afraid to get her hands dirty or to take on tasks that are traditionally seen as masculine. She is also not interested in being rescued by a man, and she is determined to survive on her own terms.

Gendered Violence in Night of the Living Dead

Despite Barbara's strength and determination, she is not immune to the violence that surrounds her. In fact, she is often targeted by the zombies because of her gender. This is evident in several scenes, such as when a zombie grabs her by the throat and tries to bite her.

The film also suggests that Barbara is at risk of being sexually assaulted. This is hinted at in a scene where a group of zombies surround her and begin to close in on her. Barbara is clearly terrified, and she believes that she is about to be raped. However, she is able to escape before the zombies can attack her.

The threat of sexual violence is a constant presence in Night of the Living Dead. This is reflected in the film's overall atmosphere of fear and paranoia. The film suggests that women are not safe in a world that is overrun by zombies, and that they are constantly at risk of being victimized.

Barbara's Agency

Despite the dangers that she faces, Barbara retains her agency throughout the film. She is not a passive victim, and she refuses to let the zombies control her life. This is evident in the way that she fights back against the zombies, and in the way that she makes her own decisions about how to survive.

Barbara's agency is also evident in the way that she interacts with the other characters in the film. She is not afraid to speak her mind, and she is willing to stand up for what she believes in. She is also able to form alliances with other survivors, and she is willing to work together with them to achieve their goals.

Barbara's agency is a powerful statement about the strength and resilience of women. The film suggests that women are capable of surviving and thriving even in the most difficult of circumstances. They are not victims, and they are not powerless. They are agents of their own destiny, and they have the power to shape their own future.

Night of the Living Dead is a complex and challenging film that offers a nuanced perspective on gendered violence. The film's protagonist, Barbara, is a strong, resourceful, and determined woman who faces numerous challenges and dangers. However, she retains her agency throughout the film, and she refuses to let the zombies control her life. Barbara's story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of women, and it is a testament to the power of cinema to critique social injustice.

Night of the Living Dead: Just a Girl

by S. Frances Robbins

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	39656 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	14 pages

FREE