Return of the Living Dead 2 Movie Poster - Hand-Painted Ghana Art

This vibrant hand-painted movie poster from Ghana captures the essence of the 1988 comedy horror film "Return of the Living Dead Part II." Utilizing bold colors and dynamic imagery, the artist brings to life the film's blend of humor and horror, showcasing the unique style characteristic of Ghanaian cinematic art.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

Ghanaian hand-painted movie posters are a distinctive form of African art, emerging in the 1980s alongside the advent of video technology in West Africa. Local entrepreneurs established mobile cinemas, traveling with televisions and video players to bring films to various communities. To attract audiences, they commissioned artists to create large, eye-catching posters painted on recycled flour sacks. These artworks are notable for their bold colors, imaginative interpretations, and unique artistic expressions, often incorporating scenes not present in the films themselves. Each poster is a one-of-a-kind piece, reflecting the artist's creativity and the cultural context of the time. This tradition not only served as a marketing tool but also contributed to the rich tapestry of Ghana's artistic heritage.

Film Information

Title: Return of the Living Dead Part II

Genre: Comedy Horror

Director: Ken Wiederhorn

Main Cast:

• James Karen as Ed
• Thom Mathews as Joey
• Michael Kenworthy as Jesse Wilson
• Marsha Dietlein as Lucy Wilson
• Dana Ashbrook as Tom Essex

Plot Summary: After a barrel containing the toxic gas Trioxin is accidentally released, it causes the dead to rise from their graves in a small American town. A group of residents, including young Jesse Wilson and his sister Lucy, must band together to survive the ensuing zombie outbreak, blending elements of horror and comedy as they confront the undead menace.

"Return of the Living Dead Part II" is a 1988 American comedy horror film written and directed by Ken Wiederhorn. It serves as the first sequel to the 1985 film "The Return of the Living Dead." The movie was released by Lorimar Motion Pictures on January 15, 1988, and grossed over $9 million at the U.S. box office against a budget of approximately $6 million. Despite its modest box office success, the film received mixed reviews, holding a 5% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 21 reviews. The film is noted for its blend of horror and comedic elements, continuing the franchise's tradition of self-referential humor and satirical take on the zombie genre.