Dead & Buried

Dead & Buried follows a town rattled by a string of brutal murders aimed at travelers. As fear climbs, vigilante actions erupt and suspects are hunted in the streets. Yet the dead do not stay buried for long, returning to life as locals who carry on as if nothing happened. The disturbance spreads through the community, turning everyday routines into tense investigations and whispered rumors. A sheriff and his wife become entangled in a web of townsfolk, puzzling clues, and a sense that something beyond normal confines is at work. The screenplay keeps its twists close, steering clear of predictable police procedurals while letting atmosphere and dread guide the ride. The sheriff's instincts clash with rumors, keeping viewers wary.

Directed by Gary Sherman, Dead & Buried released in 1981 as a moody horror mystery with a practical effects focus. The screenplay was written by Dan O'Bannon, Ronald Shusett, and Alex Stern, based on original concept rather than a book.

Contemporary critics praised its moody atmosphere and its mix of mystery with gruesome shocks. The film examines mob mentality, guilt, and how fear can blur the line between justice and violence. Its deliberate pacing and shadow laden town setting invite discussion long after the credits roll. The result is a puzzling horror that rewards patient viewing, not raw speed.

Over time Dead & Buried has gained a modest cult following among fans of early 80s horror for its unusual premise and restrained practical effects. It is frequently discussed in retrospectives about small town thrillers that blend mystery with gore, signaling a shift toward darker, more ambiguous horror narratives.

Box office receipts reflect its limited release, with a worldwide gross of 216,166 against a 3 million budget. Its limited release and later cult status are part of its enduring mystery for fans.