There’s a Zombie Outside, a new meta-horror film from director Michael Varrati, is set to haunt audiences when it arrives on digital platforms on March 4 via Gravitas Ventures. The film’s official trailer, which was released today, provides a glimpse of the eerie and complex narrative that blends zombie horror with a deep exploration of identity and media.
Written and directed by Varrati, known for his work on Deathcember and the FANGORIA Chainsaw Awards, There’s a Zombie Outside features a strong ensemble cast including Ben Baur (Hunting Season), Phylicia Wissa (Santa Clarita Diet), Danny Plotner (Euphoria), Ty Chen (The Middle), Francisco Chacin (Matlock), William Lott (Bottom), Tiffany Shepis (Star Trek: Picard), and a cameo from drag legend Peaches Christ (All About Evil). Lori Cardille, known for her iconic role in George Romero’s Day of the Dead, also lends her voice to the film, adding another layer of horror credibility to the production.
Plot and Themes
The film follows a struggling artist whose life begins to unravel as his identity becomes increasingly intertwined with the world of cult cinema. As the artist spirals, he starts to lose his grip on reality and begins to believe that the monsters from his movies are appearing in real life. The zombie, which serves as both a literal and metaphorical figure in the film, becomes a vehicle for exploring the relationship between art, identity, and the media we consume.
In an exclusive interview with FANGORIA, Varrati explained the deeper themes of There’s a Zombie Outside, with a focus on queer identity and how horror often reflects the struggles of marginalized individuals. He emphasized that while the film is about a zombie, it’s also a commentary on how people’s relationship with media and art can shape their personal identities in unhealthy ways. “When we give our identity fully over to this nebulous thing, it can make monsters of us all,” Varrati said.
Varrati also expressed his desire to create space for nuanced queer narratives within the horror genre. While queer identity in horror often focuses on validation and finding one’s place in the world, he believes there is room for more complex stories—ones that explore the frustrations, confusion, and even rage that queer individuals may experience. “Queer joy is important, but so is queer listlessness, queer frustration, and queer rage. That need is the beast at the heart of this movie,” Varrati stated.
A Personal Journey for Ben Baur
Ben Baur, who stars in the film, also shared his thoughts on the project, revealing that There’s a Zombie Outside was especially personal for him. Baur plays a version of himself in the film, which forced him to confront his own vulnerabilities and fears in a way he had never done before on screen.
“Horror has always been a space for outsiders, and collaborating with Michael Varrati has allowed me to continue exploring the intersection of queerness and the genre,” Baur explained. “This film isn’t just about the titular zombie; it’s about the struggle to be in control of and tell our own stories. I hope audiences see themselves in it—and maybe even feel a little less alone.”
Creature Effects and Artistic Vision
The creature effects that bring the zombie to life were created by Cig Neutron, known for his work on Face Off, The Boulet Brothers Dragula, and Bizarro Au Go-Go. The monster’s design promises to add a chilling dimension to the film, elevating the horror elements while supporting the film’s deeper commentary on personal identity and the creative process.
Varrati’s decision to blend a traditional zombie narrative with a reflection on the complexities of queer life and the artistic process offers a fresh take on a well-worn genre. By combining these elements, There’s a Zombie Outside stands as a significant piece of meta-horror that tackles timely and important themes through a lens that is both eerie and thought-provoking.
Release Information
There’s a Zombie Outside will be available for pre-purchase via Apple TV starting February 18, ahead of its March 4 release. Fans of both horror and queer cinema are encouraged to check out the trailer, which can be viewed below, as anticipation builds for the film’s debut.
For more information on the film and to watch the trailer, visit the official website or follow the film on social media for updates leading up to its release.
There’s a Zombie Outside promises to be a unique blend of horror, identity exploration, and queer narrative, offering something for both fans of classic zombie films and those interested in a deeper, more personal dive into the genre.
