The 1978 horror cult classic Dawn of the Dead revolutionized the zombie genre, using the slow-walking creatures as metaphors for consumerism and the pursuit of material possessions — as they lingered in the all-powerful shopping mall. Their slow, shambling gait and congregated presence became a hallmark of George A. Romero’s zombie films and went on to influence many zombie-themed productions. Set in a Milwaukee shopping mall, the film provided an everyday American setting and reflected the increase in suburbanization in the 1970s. By the time 2004 rolled around, America was still suffering from some of its earlier obsessions, but the movie made a few adjustments to account for the millennial period, and it went over pretty well with critics and audiences alike. 

The 2004 movie incorporated an urban environment, adding a sense of claustrophobia and vulnerability, as survivors navigated densely populated areas overrun by zombies. The urban setting, though still focused on the pitfalls of consumerism, opened a doorway to exploring our increased reliance on technology and media. The 2004 film also “went global,” as the virus rapidly spread across cities to augment the catastrophic sensation. The film premiered 20 years ago on March 19, 2004, so let’s look back on some of the most memorable quotes to celebrate the movie’s anniversary. 

“When there’s no more room in hell, the dead will walk the earth.”  (A classic line from both the original and the remake)

“I’m not afraid of you, I’m afraid of them.” 

“It’s so quiet.” “Yeah, it’s the quiet before the fun.”

“You wanna know the only thing I have that’s worth anything to me now? It’s this. The only real thing. My wife gave me this watch. It’s the only thing I have left of her.” – 

“We’re going to get through this. We’re going to get out of here. We’re going to be all right.” 

“You’re all going to die. The only question is how you check out. Do you want it on your feet? Or on your fucking knees… begging?”

“When the power goes out, we’re done. It’s over. We’re going to be left here to die like dogs.”

“Cross my heart and hope to die. Stick a needle in my eye.” – 

“We’re not supposed to be here, man. This is not us.” 

“This is life or death. Every decision we make is life or death.” 

“You can’t save everyone, they’re already dead. You can only save yourselves.” –

“They’re dead! They’re f*cking dead, and you want to talk semantics? You’re eating him!” 

“It doesn’t matter how this happened. What matters is how we survive.” 

“We’re not gonna make it.” “You don’t know that.” “Yes, I do. I do know that.” 

“You want to be the hero? Then let’s see you save these people.” 

“I’m not leaving without my dog!” 

“I’ve seen death, and this isn’t it.”

“They’re coming to get you, Barbara!”  A reference to a famous line from George A. Romero’s “Night of the Living Dead,” uttered by a character in a moment of dark humor.

“Just because they’re still moving doesn’t mean they’re alive.”

“Shoot them in the head. It’s the only way to be sure.”