Zombie Research Society
Last year rumors quickly spread that George Romero had found about nine minutes of “lost footage” from his 1968 cult classic “Night of the Living Dead.” However, co-writer John Russo quickly shot down the claim during an interview with Horrophile Radio, explaining that it was merely a misunderstanding. The issue immediately became a hot topic among fans. But who was telling the truth? Well, perhaps both of them!
We had a chance to speak with George Romero during the Texas Frightmare Weekend in Dallas. And while Russo maintains that the film in his possession contains no new scenes, Romero insists there are actually multiple sources of footage available, including a very early print of the film titled “Night of Anubis.”
There’s two batches of old footage from “Night of the Living Dead.” And I know that Scorsese, and MOMA are working on a restoration deal. I don’t think it’s signed, so I can’t say that it’s absolutely happening… but it looks good.
They found an old workprint, and it actually helps our case with the public domain because it actually has the old title on it. It has the original title, which is “Night of Anubis.” It even goes further back than “Flesh Eaters.”
That definitely sounds different than the version we all know and love. But other than the title card, it’s still unclear whether this unreleased footage actually includes anything new. Of course such an early workprint almost certainly contains a different cut of the film; possibly offering alternate takes, extended scenes or entire sequences that were otherwise removed from the final release.
But until there is an official announcement regarding the upcoming restoration; no one really knows for sure! And whether any new or “lost footage” actually exists as part of this “Night of Anubis” workprint remains to be seen; even by Romero himself.
We’ve included a very brief clip below, but the entire interview will air online tonight; Monday, May 9th, 2016 courtesy of our friends at Zombie Cast which will be available live via All Games Radio and featured on a number of popular feeds including iTunes and Sticher radio. So be sure to tune in, download or subscribe, and check it out for yourself!