Vampires have been around for thousands of years. However, thanks to a tuberculosis epidemic at the end of the nineteenth century, their presence among us resurged. Inspired by the outbreak and a couple of real-life characters, Bram Stoker started the modern obsession with his character, Count Dracula. From there, vampires transformed into pop culture phenomenon.
Listed below are my top 5 vampire movies. Click on the images or links below to see the trailers and/or movie clips.
#5 – Dracula – Bela Lugosi introduced the suave and dapper—and very much Hollywood
polished—modern vampire in this classic 1931 film. His real Hungarian accent and dark, confident presence certainly helped create the image of an all-powerful, romantic vampire leading man. Scary but beautiful. (It’s easy to see the evolution to Twilight’s Edward Cullen).#4 – The Little Vampire – Ok, I know. This is not a major movie
blockbuster, so why is it on the list? It’s a kids' version of the vampire tale and a great confidence builder for kids who don’t quite fit in anywhere. The lesson learned is that friends can be found in the least likely places (like an old, decrepit graveyard) and true friends help each other regardless of the risks they might face. It’s an excellent family movie where the bullies get what they deserve and the hero who saves the day is the underdog.#3 – Interview with the Vampire – A favorite of mine because it peaked
my interest in vampires as a teen—Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Christian Slater, and Antonio Banderas helped too. Anne Rice’s novel of the same name brought to life a romanticized tale of life, relationships, and lots of death. The last scene of the movie is the reason why I always check the back seat of my car before I get in at night.#2 – Nosferatu – This is a must see for anyone interested in the
undead. Inspired by the traditional view of vampires (dead creatures who don’t look human anymore), Max Schreck’s creepy interpretation captures the idea of the modern vampire. Filmed in 1922, this black and white German movie makes fantastic use of the monochromatic scheme as a representation of good and evil. (If you’re watching this and 1931’s “Dracula” for the first time, don’t judge them by modern standards. Most of the actors were accomplished stage performers and the switch from stage to screen was still being developed, as were special effects, make up and countless other things we expect to see these days.)#1 – Twilight Saga – Seriously, what’s not to like?
It’s Romeo & Juliet set in the supernatural world. A young couple fights to stay together despite the odds and the fact they shouldn’t be together for various (and practical) reasons. Edward Cullen and his “vegetarian” vampire family are quintessential, 21st century vampires – denying their thirst for human blood because they don’t want to be monsters. They’re vampires with consciences and a capacity to love and find connections with those outside their forbidden world. Add in a group of traditional vampires who don’t share the Cullen’s alternate lifestyle and a pack of wolves hell bent on destroying all of them and it makes for a perfect, tension filled vampire romance. (Can't wait for New Moon!! [trailer, extended Volturi scene] NOTE: a 30 second ad plays before the trailer.)Since a top 7 list just sounds ridiculous, I’m adding these as honorable mentions:
#2 – Bram Stoker’s Dracula – Gary Oldman. Need I say more?
#1 – Dracula: Dead & Loving It – The funniest freakin’ parody of Dracula I’ve ever seen.
Leslie Nielsen is hilarious in this Mel Brooks’ take on its serious Hollywood counterparts. However, the scene-stealer award goes to Peter MacNicol for his insane and outrageous performance as Renfield.Who’s your favorite vampire? Leave a comment below.
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