To answer the question on how to cross the statue. If you are still a minion at this point that is your problem. You need to turn back into the Overlord. I did it by going back to 'myself' as the Overlord and as soon as my minion self walked to the Overlord I turned back into the Overlord.
I'm also stuck at this point. Can only killed 2 out of 3 plant ladies. The last one always cover herself up