Tina Romero, daughter of legendary filmmaker George A. Romero, is set to carry forward her father’s iconic legacy with “Queens of the Dead,” a fresh take on the zombie genre slated to begin production this month.
Speaking with Fangoria, Tina shared her vision for the film, describing it as a “glam gore zom-com” that blends horror with elements reflecting her own perspective—a viewpoint that is female, queer, and infused with dance influences.
Staying true to her father’s classic zombie formula, Tina’s screenplay, co-written with comedian Erin Judge, features slow-moving zombies with a lingering hint of humanity.
Tina Romero (Getty Images)
Set over one night during the initial rise of the undead, the story unfolds at a warehouse party in Bushwick, where a party promoter in crisis enlists the help of a retired drag queen to save the event. As the night progresses, the characters find themselves trapped in a nightclub, faced with the choice of escape or fortification against the growing zombie threat.
Despite George A. Romero’s passing in 2017, Tina drew inspiration for “Queens of the Dead” from a poignant moment in her own life as a DJ, pondering community dynamics amidst nightlife rivalry. She recalled how her father, though he didn’t see a draft, enthusiastically endorsed her concept before his passing, urging her to pursue it.
In a departure from traditional zombie films, Tina emphasizes creativity over firepower, opting to exclude guns entirely in favor of DIY weapons crafted from available materials—a thematic choice aligned with the film’s focus on resourcefulness and community survival.
Tina Romero (Getty Images)
“Queens of the Dead” promises to be a vibrant addition to the zombie genre, revitalizing it through Tina Romero’s unique vision and honoring the legacy of her father, who revolutionized horror cinema with “Night of the Living Dead.”
Scheduled for release in 2025, the film aims to resonate with audiences not only for its horror elements but also for its celebration of diversity and resilience within the queer community. As production progresses, more details about this eagerly anticipated project are expected to emerge, further solidifying Tina Romero’s place in innovative horror filmmaking.
