Fans of TVs Nashville will recognize Monique Plante for her role as Natasha on the series, but her latest feature film is – I think it goes without saying – about as much of a departure from a small screen drama as you can get. Called The Burning Dead, and hitting DVD and VOD in March, it’s the tale of a small town Sheriff who takes on zombies that are the result of a volcano. And no, we didn’t say you had to take it seriously.
You’re definitely versatile, Moniqua. Is there a type of character you usually chase?
Well, thanks for the kind words. I really love characters that are strong and smart, and flawed of course because we all are. That’s where we find the humanity, in the flaws and emotions and messy stuff. I love stories that have both comedy and drama intertwined, because if you gotta be able to laugh at yourself occasionally.
With The Burning Dead, did you have to audition or was it a straight offer?
The part came to me through a mutual friend who knew producer/writer, Jason Ancona. Jason had mentioned they were having a hard time casting the role and asked if I’d submit a tape. Which I did, then I went in for Jeff Miller (producer/writer) and Mark Sikes, the casting director. And eventually I won the part.
What were they looking for from you in terms of the performance?
I think in these types of films you want a bit of camp, because let’s face it, zombies and volcanoes are just funny. I feel they wanted someone who could play it real, yet not take it all too seriously. I think it’s a fine balance, not taking it too seriously, yet not winking at the camera yet finding the truth in such a ridiculous situation.
How would you describe the film (to those who haven’t seen it)?
A small town Sheriff works tirelessly to evacuate the mountain from the impending doom of an erupting volcano. Little does he know, the molten lava is only half the battle he faces from the fiery depths of that volcano.
Is Danny Trejo the film’s hero?
Of sorts. Danny Trejo tells us the story of the ancient volcano and takes us on the ride. Sheriff Denton, played by the fabulous Tom Downey, is really the hero of the town and my family in the film.
Have you a favorite zombie movie!? Or are you even into zombie movies?
I love Zombie films! I’m much more of the campy variety fan. “Shaun of the Dead” and “Zombieland” are my favorites for sure. I’m also a huge fan of “The Walking Dead” Who doesn’t like a zombie film that includes Bill Murray, I mean really???
The Burning Dead arrives March 3rd on digital and VOD from Uncork’d Entertainment. The DVD sears DVD a month later, April 7th.
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