David Bridges
The Monroeville Mall, located just outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has earned its place in horror film history as the iconic setting for George A. Romero’s 1978 cult classic Dawn of the Dead. This shopping center was not just a backdrop for the film; it represented a refuge for survivors amidst a zombie apocalypse, effectively highlighting Romero’s sharp critique of mindless consumerism. The mall’s dual role in the film serves as a powerful reminder of societal issues, making it a significant landmark for both film enthusiasts and the local community. With its recent acquisition by Walmart, the mall is poised for a new chapter in its storied legacy.
On February 4, Walmart, the largest private employer in the United States and a major player in the retail industry, announced its purchase of the Monroeville Mall. This date is notable as it coincides with Romero’s birthday, adding an interesting layer of connection to the filmmaker, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 77. According to a report from Pittsburgh’s Action News 4, Walmart will be collaborating with Cypress Equities to manage the property. In a statement, Walmart expressed enthusiasm about participating in the mall’s future revitalization, stating, “Walmart did purchase the Monroeville Mall and is very interested in being part of any future redevelopment of this site.” However, no specific plans have been disclosed as of yet.
While the future plans for the Monroeville Mall remain largely under wraps, Cypress Equities indicated that the site is “well suited for a major redevelopment and repositioning into a mix of uses including retail, entertainment, restaurants, residential, hospitality, office, and public spaces.” This broad scope could encompass a variety of exciting developments. Additionally, WTAE highlighted the mall’s historical significance, especially its connection to Dawn of the Dead, and noted that it houses the Living Dead Museum & Gift Shop, a bust of Romero, and hosts the annual Living Dead Weekend horror convention, proudly proclaiming Pittsburgh as “the zombie capital of the world.”
During the filming of Dawn of the Dead, Romero and his team worked through the night in late 1977 and early 1978. Their filming schedule was briefly interrupted by the need to avoid continuity errors caused by seasonal Christmas decorations when the mall was closed for shopping. This commitment to detail showcases the dedication that went into creating this influential horror film, further solidifying the mall’s place in cinematic history.
Suzanne, the widow of George A. Romero, shared her thoughts with the station regarding the anticipated “redevelopment,” expressing her belief that it will inevitably bring about “change.” Despite this, she hopes that the legacy of Dawn of the Dead will continue to be celebrated and preserved at the site. “Cities need to keep history, and this is part of their history,” she emphasized, underscoring the importance of honoring the past while embracing future developments.
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Daniel Mercer
Brandon Fletcher
