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

George A. Romero's regional production company Laurel Entertainment is examined in George A. Romero's Independent Cinema, which reframes key academic analysis on auteur filmmaking, cult horror, and independent cinema from an industrial perspective. It offers a unique close study of a regional American production company specialising in horror content and presents the first academic analysis of Laurel Entertainment and independent film producer Richard Rubinstein.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

George A. Romero, a renowned horror auteur in American cinema, has left an indelible mark on the industry. His debut film, "Night of the Living Dead," showcased his commitment to politically challenging low-budget genre cinema, earning him both fan adoration and critical acclaim. However, the activities of the Pittsburgh-based production company that played a significant role in Romero's output have largely remained untold.

"George A. Romero's Independent Cinema" is the first in-depth exploration of Romero's Laurel Entertainment, shedding light on the decision-making and business planning that takes place outside of Hollywood. It provides an industry-determined analysis of films such as "Dawn of the Dead," a zombie masterpiece, and "Martin and Knightriders," which are seldom discussed. Spanning four decades, this book draws upon business and economic studies to critically reinterpret historical developments in the American independent film sector. It offers a forensic-level insight into a media production company whose output redefined horror cinema.

Laurel Entertainment, founded by Romero in 1968, was a regional production company specializing in horror content. It played a crucial role in the development of independent horror cinema, providing a platform for filmmakers to explore the genre and challenge traditional Hollywood norms. Romero's films, including "Night of the Living Dead," "Dawn of the Dead," and "Day of the Dead," not only revolutionized the horror genre but also had a significant impact on popular culture.

The book delves into the business and economic aspects of Laurel Entertainment, examining the strategies used to finance and distribute films. It explores the challenges faced by independent filmmakers, including limited resources, distribution, and censorship. By integrating business and economic theory, the book offers a new paradigm for understanding American film production practices.

One of the key findings of the book is that Laurel Entertainment was not just a production company but also a business venture. Romero and his collaborators recognized the potential of the horror genre and sought to capitalize on it by creating a successful media empire. The company employed a combination of traditional marketing strategies and innovative approaches, such as direct-to-video distribution and online streaming, to reach a wider audience.

The book also offers a unique close study of a regional American production company specializing in horror content. It provides a detailed account of the decision-making processes, creative challenges, and financial considerations involved in producing horror films. The authors draw upon original interviews with George A. Romero and his collaborators, providing insights into the creative process and the impact of the industry on Romero's work.

In conclusion, "George A. Romero's Independent Cinema" is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive analysis of Laurel Entertainment and its contribution to American cinema. By reframing key academic analysis on auteur filmmaking, cult horror, and independent cinema from an industrial perspective, the book provides a fresh perspective on the industry. It integrates business and economic theory to offer a new paradigm for understanding American film production practices. The unique close study of Laurel Entertainment and independent film producer Richard Rubinstein adds depth and richness to the analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of the industry's challenges and opportunities. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the horror genre, independent cinema, and the business of film production.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474479967