On Friday, October 30, the Etowah Arts Commission invites the community to the Gem Theater for a free screening of George A. Romero’s original Night of the Living Dead (1968). Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the film begins at 7:00 p.m.

Filmed in and around Evans City in western Pennsylvania, within the Appalachian region, Night of the Living Dead became one of the most influential independent films in American cinema. Its stark black-and-white photography, rural setting, and low-budget production helped redefine modern horror and demonstrated the impact a film made far from Hollywood could have on popular culture.

Presented at Etowah’s historic Gem Theater, this screening offers a fitting connection between a landmark work of Appalachian filmmaking and a place that has long brought movies, performances, and community events to East Tennessee. Through programs like this, the Etowah Arts Commission continues to create opportunities for the community to experience important works of art and film in a shared local setting.

Admission is free.

***Viewer Advisory: Night of the Living Dead (1968) is not rated by the MPA. The film contains frightening and disturbing scenes, graphic violence, blood and gore, images of corpses, and sustained horror themes that may not be suitable for younger viewers. Parental discretion is advised.***