In a nod to George A. Romero’s Dawn of The Dead, it is now confirmed that the historic Monroeville Mall in Pennsylvania has been bought by Walmart. This news leaves many horror enthusiasts, who value their rock salt, feeling uneasy about the potential transformation of this significant landmark, symbolizing Romero’s enduring legacy.
According to Bloody Disgusting, it was confirmed today that Walmart purchased the mall for $34 million, which is quite a bitter pill considering February 4th also happens to be George A. Romero’s birthday. In partnership with Cypress Equities, Walmart announced their intention to transform Monroeville Mall into a new shopping and commercial hub. Their aim is to use the space for various public establishments like retail stores, eateries, entertainment venues, and hospitality centers. Cypress CEO Chris Maguire also mentioned that they will adapt their plans according to the local community’s needs, using data analysis to identify the residents’ preferences and find areas where there is a demand for more services.
Originally opened in 1969 as an ordinary shopping center, it gained widespread recognition when Romero transformed it into the setting for Dawn of the Dead in 1978. Since then, it has attracted hordes of horror enthusiasts from all over the nation, boasting a Living Dead Museum and a tribute to Romero in the form of a statue within its walls. In 2008, Kevin Smith honored Romero by using the mall as a backdrop for his comedy Zack and Miri Make a Porno. Despite the recent Walmart takeover, Romero devotees continue to gather annually at the Monroeville Mall for the Living Dead Weekend, with this year’s event scheduled from June 6 to June 8.
Horror Fans Protest Monroeville Mall’s Sale to Walmart
As a tribute to Romero’s remarkable influence on the horror genre, the Monroeville Mall carries decades of history, culture, and art – so it’s understandable that few are content with its sale. One horror enthusiast expressed their displeasure by saying, “People in the area are really upset,” while another simply remarked: “Leaving certain places untouched is sometimes best.
Other critics didn’t fail to notice the irony in transforming the location of Romero’s anti-capitalist franchise into a consumerist vortex, commenting, “George would find it amusing that WM took over his old territory. A perfect example of commercialism at its peak.
In a less biased expression, Suzanne Romero, Romero’s widow, didn’t criticize the sale, but shared her desire for her husband’s work to be acknowledged in Walmart‘s new concept for the Monroeville Mall. “Naturally, if it’s being renovated, it will transform. I hope it pays tribute to the past in some manner,” she stated. “Historical sites are crucial for cities, and this is one of their historical landmarks.
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2025-02-05 01:31