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Tina Romero’s Queens of the Dead Opens With a Queer, Glitter-Soaked Zombie Spin

Early reviews spotlight glam-gore style with a lighter horror touch.

Overview

  • The feature debut, written and directed by Tina Romero, unfolds a zombie outbreak in a Bushwick drag club that centers queer performers and nightlife culture.
  • Romero preserves her father’s zombie rules with slow shamblers, infection by bite, and headshots, updating the lore with phone-era satire.
  • Critics praise the vibrant production design, practical glam-gore makeup, pulsing club soundtrack, and ensemble chemistry, while noting comedy takes precedence over sustained scares.
  • The ensemble includes Katy O’Brian, Jaquel Spivey, Riki Lindhome, and Margaret Cho, with a cameo by Tom Savini, as Greg Nicotero’s team supplied donated prosthetics and props.
  • The film’s nine-year development overcame financing challenges before opening in theaters on Oct. 24, with some coverage noting potential same-day availability on Shudder.