The Walking Dead: The genius of Greg Nicotero

Throughout the history of television and film, there have been a number of incredible auteurs and creators who make the impossible possible. One of those individuals The Walking Dead universe is fortunate to include in its list of creators is the multitalented Greg Nicotero. The evolution of the moving image is something to be treasured, and to the people behind them, we give much praise. It is thanks to the incredible efforts of the makers that we have so much great TV that constantly evolves.

If we look at horror, it is the highest-grossing genre there is to date. Although what people find scary is subjective, the ways in which we view fictional horror are really interesting to look at – especially when we can see how far it really has come. The Walking Dead crew brought terrifying horror to a new level like no other show.

There are so many incredible writers, directors, and producers that have been featured on TWD since the show’s debut back in 2010. But one in particular really, quite literally, brought the undead to life in ways so innovative ways. The incredible Greg Nicotero!

The Walking Dead’s Greg Nicotero

Greg Nicotero is a leader in EFX and horror in the media. Back in 1988, Nicotero and Howard Berger founded the KNB EFX company, which has been pivotal in special practical effects and makeup within the industry. The company was founded after the iconic duo was both working on George Romero’s epochal 1985 movie Day Of The Dead, which really brought the idea of zombies to screens like never before.

Beyond the mothership series of TWD and his cool restaurant for fans Nic & Normans, Nicotero has contributed to the entire universe of the show and further series like Creepshow and major blockbusters like Kill Bill through his distinct directing, writing and insane skills with special effects make up. Looking back at his role on Day Of The Dead, it is clear to see how much evolution has taken place in the ideas of how zombies look and present themselves.

Without Nicotero, the walkers that grew to be so iconic would just not be the same. Whether they were sad transformations of loved ones turned flesh-eating deadheads, villains transformed into sickos, or random rotting empties – the artistry behind them was a huge reason for the show’s success. Also, a shoutout to all of the art department crew who brought these visions to life – we are very grateful!

Watching the BTS as a fan has always inspired me, and I found the insight into the other side of the camera utterly fascinating. Hearing Nicotero’s reel of facts, including finding out that some of the intestines were made of tights and ham, the amount of different bloods used for scenarios – some edible and some non-edible and even watching them mold and sculpt prosthetics for the actors really proves how much work went into making the show.

Considering these aren’t even a fraction of facts, the world beyond the camera is just a work of pure genius. And one of which Greg Nicotero really helped bring to us to enjoy – thank you!

You can stream all episodes of The Walking Dead on Netflix, and UK viewers can watch the episodes with the Disney Plus streaming service.