George A. Romero’s Dawn of the Dead (1978) isn’t just a visual feast of flesh-hungry zombies and social commentary. It’s a sensory experience, and a large part of that experience is driven by the haunting and unsettling music composed by the Italian progressive rock band, Goblin. This article explores how the music in Dawn of the Dead transcends mere background noise, becoming a vital character itself, shaping the atmosphere and amplifying the emotional impact of the film.
Setting the Stage for Decay
From the opening credits, Goblin’s score establishes a sense of unease. The discordant synth melodies and driving drumbeats create a feeling of impending doom, foreshadowing the desolate world overrun by the undead. Tracks like “Main Theme” and “Overture of the Dead” are devoid of traditional melody, instead relying on a cacophony of sound that reflects the breakdown of societal order.
The music isn’t simply a static backdrop. It dynamically interacts with the narrative, heightening tension and mirroring the emotional state of the characters. The iconic “The Gallery” sequence, where Fran wanders the deserted shopping mall, is punctuated by a slow, melancholic piano piece. This melancholic melody reflects Fran’s isolation and despair as she grapples with the new reality.
Juxtaposition and Irony
Romero masterfully employs juxtaposition to create a sense of unease. The upbeat, almost whimsical “Don’t Open Till Christmas” plays during a particularly gruesome scene involving a zombie trapped in a department store Santa display. This jarring contrast between the playful music and the horrific scene underscores the absurdity and tragedy of the situation.
A Soundtrack of Survival
The film also utilizes music as a tool for survival. The characters use upbeat pop music like “Love is a Battlefield” to drown out the moans of the approaching zombies, creating a false sense of security and highlighting their desperate attempts to maintain normalcy. However, the music’s cheerful facade ultimately crumbles, mirroring the characters’ dwindling hope.
The power of Goblin’s score in Dawn of the Dead is undeniable. It has become synonymous with the film itself and has influenced countless horror soundtracks in the years that followed. From the pulsating techno beats of modern zombie films to the unnerving scores of psychological thrillers, the echoes of Goblin’s chilling masterpiece can be heard throughout the genre.
Dawn of the Dead‘s music isn’t just background noise; it’s a vital narrative tool. Goblin’s score masterfully creates a sense of dread, despair, and even dark humor, immersing viewers in the film’s terrifying world. It’s a testament to the power of music in horror cinema, proving that a carefully crafted soundtrack can elevate a film from the realm of the visual to a truly unforgettable sensory experience.
