The Living Dead Weekend at Monroeville Mall is a unique event that brings together fans of zombie culture and the iconic films of George Romero. This year's gathering, which may be the last of its kind, serves as a poignant reminder of the mall's impending demise and its significant cultural impact.
The Mall's Final Stand
The Monroeville Mall, a 1960s-era shopping center, is facing an uncertain future. Its purchase by Walmart in 2025 has led to plans for demolition, threatening to erase a piece of cinematic history. This mall was not just any ordinary shopping destination; it was the very site where Romero's 'Dawn of the Dead' was filmed, a sequel to his groundbreaking 'Night of the Living Dead.'
A Cultural Legacy
The Living Dead Museum, housed within the mall, has been a beacon for fans of zombie cinema. Its owner, Kevin Kriess, organized the first Living Dead Weekend in 2017, creating an annual event that attracts enthusiasts from around the globe. The museum's impact is undeniable, as Gene Barney, a member of the weekend's staff, attests. He believes the museum and the film's enduring popularity have been instrumental in keeping the mall afloat.
Beyond the Zombies
Living Dead Weekend is more than just a celebration of zombies. It offers a diverse range of activities, from panel discussions and filming site tours to a mini-Comic-Con experience. These attractions draw thousands of visitors, contributing to the mall's economic viability. Trey Wallace, a first-time attendee from Erie, sums up the event's allure: 'It's such a cult classic... great filmmaking, iconic lines, and a touch of cheese.'
Art Inspired by the Undead
The event also serves as a platform for artists like Ricky Blalock, whose artistic journey was reignited by the undead. Blalock, a former drafting engineer, found inspiration in shows like 'The Walking Dead' and began drawing monsters, a departure from his usual subjects of ducks and deer. At Living Dead Weekend, he found a receptive audience for his black-and-white portraits of zombies and other horror icons.
A Star-Studded Affair
This year's event was particularly special, as it brought together the largest gathering of 'Dawn of the Dead' cast members to date. Fans had the opportunity to meet stars like Ken Foree, whose character's iconic line, 'When there is no more room in hell, the dead will walk the earth,' has become a rallying cry for zombie enthusiasts.
A Call for Preservation
The impending closure of the mall has sparked a sense of urgency among attendees. Diana Reyes, a returning visitor from Wilmington, Delaware, believes the mall should be preserved as a historic landmark. She highlights the economic benefits the event brings to the mall and the community. Her daughter even suggests a sit-in to protest the mall's closure.
A Fitting Tribute
As the Living Dead Weekend draws to a close, it leaves a lasting impression on those who attended. The event serves as a testament to the power of cinema and the enduring appeal of zombie culture. While the mall's future remains uncertain, the memories and connections forged during these gatherings will live on, ensuring that the spirit of Monroeville Mall continues to thrive, even in the face of its impending demise.
