George A. Romero’s Independent Cinema: Horror, Industry, Economics

George A. Romero is recognised as one of the most culturally significant horror auteurs in American cinema. From his debut Night of the Living Dead onwards, he demonstrated a commitment to politically challenging low-budget genre cinema, gaining fan adoration and critical esteem. Romero’s cult status may be assured, but the activities of the Pittsburgh-based production company that facilitated a substantial part of his output have largely been untold.

George A. Romero’s Independent Cinema is the first in-depth analysis of Romero’s Laurel Entertainment, revealing the decision-making and business planning that takes place away from Hollywood, while offering an industry-determined analysis of such films as his zombie masterpiece Dawn of the Dead and the seldom-discussed Martin and Knightriders. Tracking Laurel Entertainment across four decades, this book draws upon business and economic studies to critically recast historical developments in the American independent film sector, providing a forensic-level insight into a media production company whose output redefined horror cinema.