I was a sucker for blood sucking vampires growing up. Even though it scared the bejesus out of me, I find them fascinating up to this day. You can’t help but blurt a couple of lines from your favorites like the Lost Boys in 1987 —- “You’ll never grow old Michael, You’ll never die” or sing to the songs from the soundtrack.
Vampires have been a popular subject in cinema for decades, captivating audiences with their supernatural powers and bloodthirsty nature. Here are some of the classic vampire thrillers.
Dracula (1931)
Directed by Tod Browning, Dracula is a classic horror film that introduced the iconic character of Count Dracula to audiences worldwide. Based on Bram Stoker’s novel of the same name, the film stars Bela Lugosi as the Count, who travels from Transylvania to London to spread his vampiric curse. Dracula set the standard for vampire films, with Lugosi’s performance becoming the definitive portrayal of the character.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoaMw91MC9k
Let the Right One In (2008)
A haunting Swedish film directed by Tomas Alfredson, Let the Right One In is a coming-of-age tale about a young boy named Oskar, who befriends a vampire girl named Eli. As their relationship develops, they are both forced to confront their own loneliness and inner demons. The film beautifully blends elements of horror, romance, and drama, creating a compelling and unique story.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0LYScpd-Lc
Interview with the Vampire (1994)
Based on Anne Rice’s bestselling novel, Interview with the Vampire is a gothic horror film directed by Neil Jordan. The movie follows the story of Louis, a 200-year-old vampire who recounts his life to a journalist. The film features an all-star cast including Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, and Kirsten Dunst, who deliver powerful performances that bring the characters to life. Interview with the Vampire explores themes of immortality, isolation, and the price of power.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCmYN6TLd8A
What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
A mockumentary horror-comedy film directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, What We Do in the Shadows is a hilarious and fresh take on vampire movies. The film follows a group of vampires who share a flat in Wellington, New Zealand, and showcases their everyday struggles, such as paying rent, doing household chores, and getting into petty arguments. What We Do in the Shadows is a brilliant satire that pokes fun at vampire tropes and delivers plenty of laughs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAZEWtyhpes
Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
Directed by Jim Jarmusch, Only Lovers Left Alive is a stylish and atmospheric film that explores the eternal love story between two vampires, Adam and Eve. The movie stars Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston as the immortal couple, who have been together for centuries and are reunited after a long separation. Only Lovers Left Alive is a poetic and visually stunning film that explores themes of love, art, and the nature of humanity.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycOKvWrwYFo
The Lost Boys (1987)
My personal favorite was directed by Joel Schumacher, The Lost Boys is a classic horror-comedy film that follows two brothers who move to a new town and discover that it’s infested with vampires. The movie features a stellar cast including Jason Patric, Kiefer Sutherland, and Corey Feldman, who deliver memorable performances. With a killer soundtrack and plenty of 80s nostalgia, The Lost Boys is a fun and thrilling ride.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q786UsnOcsY
Nosferatu (1922)
Directed by F.W. Murnau, Nosferatu is a silent film that tells the story of Count Orlok, a vampire who terrorizes a small town. The movie is a masterpiece of German Expressionism, with striking visuals and eerie atmosphere that make it a haunting and unforgettable experience. Max Schreck’s portrayal of Count Orlok is one of the most iconic in cinema history.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxlJxDr26mM
Blade (1998)
Directed by Stephen Norrington, Blade is a superhero movie that follows the adventures of a half-vampire, half-human named Blade, who hunts down and kills vampires. The movie stars Wesley Snipes in the title role, and features a strong supporting cast including Kris Kristofferson and Stephen Dorff. Blade is a fast-paced and action-packed film that revitalized the vampire genre in the late 90s.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaU2A7KyOu4
Thirst (2009)
Thirst is a Korean horror film that tells the story of a priest who becomes a vampire after undergoing an experimental medical treatment. The movie is a unique take on the vampire genre, blending horror, romance, and dark comedy in a way that only Park Chan-wook can. Thirst is a visually stunning and emotionally gripping film that is not to be missed.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9XMJJ5DZso
Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)
This has got to be one of the best vampire stories of all time. Gary Oldman was sublime in his portrayal of the Count. Winona Ryder and Keanu Reeves in their prime make this all the more memorable. It is dark, creepy and scary. There were a lot of moments where using your hands were necessary to cover your eyes and fidgeting in your seats. The cinematography was superb and the locations were horrifying. It was like your nightmare coming alive.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjgwUB1CXek
These ten vampire movies are some of the best ever made, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic horror films, superhero movies, or international cinema, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, sit back, turn off the lights, and let these films sink their teeth into you.
