Queens of the Dead: Tina Romero's Zombie Drag Queen Horror Film

Last Updated: October 20, 2025

The Romero legacy is back, and it’s more fabulous and ferocious than ever. Tina Romero, daughter of the legendary horror maestro George A. Romero, is making her directorial debut with *Queens of the Dead*, a vibrant, high-energy fusion of horror, comedy, and drag pageantry. Acquired by Independent Film Company for theatrical distribution and destined for the horror streaming service Shudder, the film is officially set to slash its way into theaters on October 24, delivering a fresh and utterly unique take on the undead genre her father defined.

While the zombie genre has seen countless iterations, *Queens of the Dead* promises a truly refreshing perspective. The film follows a group of rival drag queens, club kids, and frenemies who are forced to put their personal dramas aside to survive a zombie apocalypse. The chaos erupts right in the middle of the annual "Queen of the Night" pageant, turning a night of glitter and glam into a gruesome battle for survival. Instead of the bleak, gritty tone often associated with the undead, Romero’s film injects a significant dose of razor-sharp humor and camp, creating a wildly entertaining spectacle that feels both modern and reverent of its horror roots.

A New Vision from a Legendary Lineage

The legacy of George A. Romero looms large over the world of horror. His groundbreaking 1968 classic *Night of the Living Dead* not only redefined the zombie but also established the genre as a vehicle for potent social commentary. Tina Romero's foray into filmmaking is a significant event for horror aficionados, carrying the weight of this iconic lineage. While *Queens of the Dead* is undeniably her own creation, it’s thrilling to see the echoes of her father's work—sharp wit, resourceful heroes, and claustrophobic terror—reimagined through a bold new lens. This connection adds a compelling layer of interest, bridging a classic horror dynasty with a contemporary, subversive vision.

Release Details and Distribution

Initially announced with an unspecified fall release, the buzz surrounding the film has solidified into a concrete date. *Queens of the Dead* will hit North American theaters on October 24, perfectly timed for the Halloween season. The acquisition by Shudder also confirms that the film will have a long life on a platform celebrated by horror fans, ensuring its accessibility to a wide audience after its theatrical run. The release of an official trailer and poster has only intensified anticipation, showcasing a film that fully embraces its outlandish premise with confidence and style.

A Unique Visual Aesthetic

The film's marketing materials and early looks confirm a stunning visual aesthetic. *Queens of the Dead* embraces bold colors, elaborate costumes, and dazzling set pieces, creating a sharp and arresting contrast with the decay and gore of the zombie horde. This stylistic choice is central to the film's unique identity, enhancing the sense of spectacle and creating a memorable cinematic experience where high fashion clashes with flesh-eating horror. The combination of a vibrant drag aesthetic with classic zombie terror promises a visual feast unlike any other in the genre.