Tom Savini on his transition from special effects artist to director
Though the role came with more responsibility, Savini was more than up to the task.
Though Tom Savini began working in the horror industry as a special effects makeup artist, he was working with some of the most prolific directors of the time period.
Savini provided effects for directors like Sean S. Cunningham, who directed the 1980 cult film Friday the 13th.
Savini also frequently worked with director George A. Romero, known for films like Martin (1977) and Dawn of the Dead (1978).
By 1984, Savini had moved to a different aspect of production, directing three episodes of the popular series, Tales from the Darkside.
In 1990, Savini began his stride into film, directing Night of the Living Dead (1990). The film was a remake of a 1968 original, directed by Savini’s mentor, Romero.
While filming the remake, Savini was pressed as to whether working as a director differed from his previous role as a special effects artist.
“It’s more intoxicating, that’s for sure,” Savini said of his transition to directing during an interview with The Pittsburgh Press. “On the others, I’d do my thing and leave. Now I’m here 15 hours a day and in control of every shot.”
Still, Savini had big aspirations for his first project. “Nothing is impossible; it’s just a case of working it out,” said Savini. “The hardest thing is getting 25 questions a second and answering them and dealing with people in a polite way. Working with George (Romero) makes you want to help the director, and I’m needing more help than I expected.”
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