George A. Romero On His Latino Heritage: 'I Was The Shark, Not The Jet'

Team Blogamole recently down with director George A. Romero. He gave us some perspective on his new film, "Survival of the Dead", upcoming projects, his dream gig and more! We'll be rolling out clips for the next two weeks – stay tuned or we'll eat your brains!

True George A. Romero fans already know about the director's Latino roots. Born to a Cuban father and Lithuanian mother, Romero's films are inspired by Afro-Caribbean spiritual beliefs.

Ever the honest guy, Romero has spoken candidly about his own father's prejudices against Latinos.

In a 2009 interview with Lee Karr, Romero gave some insight into his conflicted upbringing:

"I'm half Latino, I'm a New York baby right. So my Dad is Cuban, my Mom is Lithuanian. My Dad say's 'I'm not Cuban!' - but you were born in Cuba? 'I am Castilian, from Spain! Family went to Cuba to open a hotel!' Okay, well let's say you're a Cuban, you're a Spanish guy? 'Yes, but I am not a Puerto Rican!'

I grew up in New York with a Spanish Dad right in the days of West Side Story, where you know the Puerto Rican gangs and shit? My Dad is telling me Puerto Ricans are shit. I have a Latino Dad who's telling me that Puerto Ricans are shit.(laughs) I mean this is a very confusing situation...anyway."

When we asked the legendary horror master to discuss the Latino characters in his latest film, he opened up — in the most cinematic of ways.

Could "Survival of the Dead" be Romero's subversive message of empowerment to Latinos?

Watch and find out! "Survival of the Dead" hits theaters on May 28. Check out the awesome, zombie-fest trailer:

Have you ever felt like George A. Romero? How did you deal with it? Tell us in the comments or @MTV3!

Tags Exclusive, George A. Romero, heritage, interview, Survival of the Dead