We recently passed the 7th anniversary of the death of the remarkable filmmaker George A. Romero. So, I wanted to share some Romero stuff here on my nickdigilio.com blog...so here goes.
First, this is what I wrote on July 16, 2017, upon hearing of George's passing:
"OK, I'm gonna give this a shot.
I am absolutely crushed by the death of George A. Romero, completely crushed. He was not only one of the most important and significant filmmakers that has ever lived; the inventor of an entire genre of movies; a maverick of independent thought; an icon in the world of horror; a satirist on the level of Mark Twain; a storyteller beyond reproach; a magnificent comedic mind....and, a helluva nice guy.
I had the honor of getting to know Mr. Romero over many years through my radio show, and my association with Flashback Weekend horror convention, and to say it was an amazing experience would be a massive understatement.
He was kind, funny, generous and also very cantankerous when he wanted to be. He was also one of the most important artists that has ever lived, and a true inspiration to anyone who has worked in the world of cinema.
A true giant, who has left behind a treasure trove of work to be cherished and watched over and over again. I love him and his work...always have, always will. His movies truly changed my life.
He was an amazing man, and there is now a huge chasm in the horror world, and the real world in general.
Rest in Peace George Romero.
Say Hi to Bub for me."
Just this past May, I was honored to host a "Dusk to Dawn Romero Fest" at The Midway Drive-In, and I was even more thrilled that my girlfriend (THE creative force behind this website, by the way) Julie, was there with me.
It was a special night, and here are some details of the wonderful event:
Flashback Weekend’s Midway Drive-In Dusk to Dawn Romero Fest!
It all happened on Sat. May 18, 2024, for the 45th Anniversary of George A. Romero’s “DAWN OF THE DEAD” in a very rare Drive-In showing!
It was held at the Flashback Weekend owned and operated Midway Drive In, located in Dixon, IL.
There were FOUR (4) George A. Romero classics presented, it was all hosted by me.
This was the schedule:
5:00PM – Gates opened. Vendors sold horror T-Shirts, posters, Blu-Rays, books, and more!
8:15PM – Pre Show started – Vintage coming attractions
Followed by “NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD” (1968) - followed by “DAWN OF THE DEAD” (1979) – followed by “DAY OF THE DEAD” (1985) – followed by “THE CRAZIES” (1973)
I spoke between movies and got to hang out with horror followers, cool people, and Romero fans from all over the place.
It was an incredible way to honor George, celebrate his work, and remember him for the incredible contributions he made to film and culture. A truly GREAT night/morning.
Rest in Peace George, we all love you, and miss you.
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