In some embodiments, methods of killing tumor cells are provided. The methods may include contacting the tumor cell with a tropic cell that carries a modified oncolytic virus, wherein the virus comprises a tumor selective element and/or a capsid protein that binds a tumor-specific cell surface molecule. In another embodiment, methods of treating cancer are provided. The methods may include administering a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition to a subject, wherein the pharmaceutical composition includes a tropic cell that carries a modified oncolytic virus, wherein the virus comprises a tumor selective promoter element and/or a capsid protein that binds a tumor-specific cell surface molecule.