Vital to the success of every film is careful pre-production. This process basically involves the writing of the script, finding financers to provide the film's budget, organising the shoot (locations, storyboards, budgeting) and finally, the casting of the actors. Richard Rubenstein, producer, was in charge of the funds and was responsible for putting the movie in a viable financial and legal position:

"I see my function as a producer in terms of providing George with a brush, pallete and canvas."

John Amplas, star or Romero's earlier film 'Martin' was the casting director whose main function was the recruit zombies for the picture.