Deck Z

The Titanic disaster gets a horror-flavored reinterpretation in this slim but effective debut tale of zombies on the high seas. In an attempt to keep a deadly plague from being weaponized by the Germans, scientist Theodor Weiss steals the only sample, destroys his notes, and flees, ultimately seeking refuge aboard the Titanic. He's tracked down by an agent of the German Empire who inadvertently releases the plague, turning passengers and crew into ravening monsters. As Weiss, Capt. Smith, and others try to contain the infection, the Titanic strikes an iceberg, compounding their problems. This fast-paced nightmare hits all the horror notes: a high body count, tense combat, moments of cowardice and valor, and even a plucky child in mortal peril. The cinematic atmosphere and attention to detail make this a better-than-average zombie mash-up. Agent: Victoria Skurnick, Levine Greenberg Literary Agency. (Oct.)