Imagine the chaos if a zombie apocalypse erupted in Brooklyn, particularly within its vibrant queer nightlife. This exhilarating premise sets the stage for Queens of the Dead, a film directed by the talented Tina Romero, daughter of the iconic George A. Romero, renowned for his contributions to the zombie genre.
Tina Romero’s debut feature is a celebration of queer representation and creativity, seamlessly blending horror with joy. It arrives at a crucial time for cinema, particularly for LGBTQ+ narratives, looking to establish new pathways in storytelling.
The Influence of George A. Romero on Tina’s Work
Growing up alongside a cinematic legend, how did George Romero shape Tina’s outlook on horror? She recalls sitting on a zombie’s lap long before knowing Santa Claus, making zombies an integral part of her life. Both horror and whimsy coexist in her upbringing, crafting a unique perspective that permeates her filmmaking. Tina surfaces with an “edgy cheeseball” vibe that integrates vibrant colors with a gory aesthetic— a tribute to her father’s legacy.
Why a Zombie Movie?
Was there any hesitation for Tina to direct a zombie film given the inevitable comparisons to her father? Interestingly, it was a mix of both uncertainty and enthusiasm. Tina felt it essential to approach the genre authentically. The twist? She wanted to delve into the realm of queer nightlife, a world she knows intimately, allowing her to tell the story in a way that resonates with her personal experiences.
Breaking New Ground in Queer Horror
Queerness has long been a subtle undercurrent in horror films, but Queens of the Dead boasts a lively and unapologetic representation. Tina is thrilled that this film, set for release in 2025, is unreservedly queer. It showcases characters who are firmly rooted in their identities while facing external threats. This joyful representation is not only refreshing but needed, offering a counterbalance to current events and reflecting the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
A Social Commentary on Modern Life
How does Queens of the Dead comment on the role of social media in our lives? Tina adeptly connects the dots between today’s digital age and traditional zombie tropes, presenting characters who are as influenced by their phones as they are by the apocalypse. This idea of being a “phone zombie” is especially resonant, reminding us of the potential disconnect between online personas and real-world interactions.
Subverting Zombie Tropes
What makes this movie stand out among other zombie films? While it includes familiar genre tropes—the gathering of supplies, sheltering in place, and headshots—Tina took deliberate steps to subvert and twist these elements. For instance, she flips the typical cast dynamics by amplifying queer identities, making them the primary protagonists instead of a single token character.
The Unique Aesthetic of the Zombies
What inspired the striking look of the film’s zombies? Rejecting the traditional representation of zombies, Tina envisioned them as glamorous rather than grisly—a delightful unexpected twist fitting for a narrative steeped in queer nightlife. From glitter in the blood to high-fashion styles, the zombies embody a club-ready aesthetic that invites audiences into an entertaining yet thrilling experience.
The Legacy of Cameos
Did you know that Queens of the Dead includes Easter egg cameos linked to George Romero’s universe? Tina features iconic figures such as Tom Savini, who plays the mayor of New York City, connecting past and present in a fun and engaging way. These nods deepen the film’s roots in horror cinema, setting it apart as a heartfelt homage.
Queens of the Dead opens October 24. Check out the film’s website for details on screenings near you.
Are you interested in more films that blend genres or stories that challenge traditional narratives? Stay tuned for updates, and explore related content at Moyens I/O.