Sink Your Teeth Into These 25 Vampire Movies

As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of all things undead and a lifelong aficionado of the silver screen, I must say that the vampire genre has seen its fair share of reinventions over the years. However, it’s the recent offerings in this list that have truly caught my eye (and fangs).

Vampires were there at the very beginning of Gothic literature. It was a vampire that turned horror into big business for Hollywood almost a century ago, and while their popularity comes and goes in waves, vampires will forever be a staple of the genre onscreen. For this list, Vulture presents you with a sampler platter of vampire movies, with flavors from every decade over the past 50 years. There is queer coding, blood sucking, shadow stalking, and even rave dancing, because the undead have always been the most fun of horror’s classic monsters. There are a few Dracula entries, because how could we not? But there are also plenty that have nothing to do with the Prince of Darkness, if you’re looking for stories that feel a little fresher than Bram Stoker’s Transylvanian titan. Whether it’s the lesbian vamps of the ’70s or Marvel’s iconic daywalker, these are some terrors you’re definitely going to want to invite inside.

Dracula’s Daughter (1936)

In the spirit of an old saying: Let’s move on, let’s explore! The film “Dracula’s Daughter” tells a tale about a female vampire who preys upon other women and is tormented by her insatiable thirst for something other than affection – it’s blood! Yes, blood! That’s what she craves the most. Not the taboo touch of another woman, but blood! A timeless classic in both horror genre and queer horror sub-genre, this 1936 movie has been captivating LGBTQ+ audiences for almost a century. If Carmilla were here, she would guide you, my dear, but we’ll have to wait until the 1970s for that encounter.

Blood and Roses (1960)

In contrast to Dracula, who is widely recognized as the iconic vampire in both films and literature, it was actually Carmilla from Sheridan Le Fanu’s gothic novella that paved the way, being published 25 years prior to Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Like Dracula, who pursued Mina Harker, Carmilla targeted female victims. However, due to its lesbian-vampire theme from a female author, it didn’t gain as much cultural traction as the male-authored narratives about undead males preying on women. The film “Carmilla,” directed by Roger Vadim, hinted at the surge of lesbian-vampire films in the 1970s. It’s an erotic horror movie adapted from Le Fanu’s novella. In the movie, when Carmilla’s friend gets married, her jealousy leads her to awaken a female vampire who eventually possesses her. Following this possession, Carmilla returns to the wedding estate and begins causing havoc on the grounds. Titles such as “The Vampire Lovers,” “Daughters of Darkness,” or “Vampyros Lesbos” offer more instances of lesbian vampire liaisons.

Dracula: Prince of Darkness (1966)

For the Hammer horror portion of this list, we present you with Dracula: Prince of Darkness, in which a group of English travelers is warned by locals in the Carpathian Mountains not to travel near the domain of a count named Dracula. The tourists naturally ignore this advice, and serve themselves right up to the dark prince. This was the British production company’s third movie in its Dracula series of films, and the second to feature Christopher Lee, one of the most identifiable faces in vampire horror from one of the shops that contributed most heavily to vampire lore in pop culture.

Blacula (1972)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=R1MhBRE7_Zo

As a movie enthusiast, I often find Dracula dominating discussions about vampire flicks. Don’t get me wrong, I love Dracula, but there’s another vampire tale that deserves some spotlight – Blacula. This gem was born during the golden era of blaxploitation in Hollywood, with William Marshall brilliantly portraying an African prince turned undead being by none other than Count Dracula himself. After a long slumber of centuries, Blacula awakens not in Transylvania, but in bustling Los Angeles. His newfound obsession is a young woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to his lost love from his mortal days. Directed by the talented William Crain, this film stands as a significant milestone in the Black horror genre, offering a unique twist on the classic vampire narrative.

Ganja & Hess (1973)

In 1973, at the Cannes Film Festival, the experimental vampire tale “Ganja & Hess” was premiered, directed by Bill Gunn. Starring alongside is Duane Jones, known for his role in “Night of the Living Dead.” Unlike typical blaxploitation films of the era, this movie deviates from capitalist expectations. Instead, it offers a hallucinatory drama that delves into themes such as Black assimilation, white imperial oppression, eroticism, and the complex interplay between religion and power. This film presents advanced-level explorations of vampire lore.

Blood for Dracula (1974)

In a different title, this film was known as “Andy Warhol’s Dracula,” but it was Udo Kier who brought an extraordinary portrayal of the character that made one wonder if he wasn’t the real Dracula in disguise. In this adaptation, the vampire count found it difficult to find virgins during the 1970s, so he journeyed to Italy, reasoning that a deeply religious country might harbor more chaste women. However, as suggested by Google’s summary, what he encountered instead were incestuous lesbian couples with impure blood and a Marxist servant named Mario. This unique combination of Udo Kier as Dracula and the Italian lesbians makes “Blood for Dracula” one of the most unconventionally gay vampire films ever produced, given that vampires are often associated with the darkest and most mysterious aspects of humanity.

Alucarda (1977)

In a departure from the original Gothic novella “Carmilla,” known for its lesbian vampire theme, this Mexican horror film (filmed in English) presents a loosely based interpretation that incorporates elements of ‘nun exploitation’ to enhance the overall flavor. The movie, titled “Alucarda,” centers around two orphaned girls who are brought together at a convent. As their adolescent emotions ignite, they unwittingly summon malevolent forces, a common trope in horror films involving young women. This tale of the Catholic-orphan undead is replete with religious fervor, satanic rites, visually striking scenes, and demonic possessions, making it an all-encompassing exploration of the dark side.

The Hunger (1983)

The Hunger was the movie that filmmaker Tony Scott used to introduce himself to the world, and for that introduction, he said “bisexual New Wave vampirism!” We enter the film watching Catherine Deneuve and David Bowie be the sexiest duo imaginable in a New York night club with strobe lights setting off their bone structure as Bauhaus plays “Bela Lugosi Is Dead.” This alone is a marketing campaign for the joys of being an adult goth. Shortly thereafter we meet gerontologist Sarah Roberts (Susan Sarandon), who Bowie’s John seeks out to try to stop the rapid aging that’s about to kill him. Through John, Sarah meets vamp queen Miriam (Deneuve) and a dangerous flirtation begins. The Hunger is the peak of chic, cosmopolitan vampirism that gives us queer eroticism with an utterly stunning cast. Ideal vamp cinema.

Fright Night (1985 & 2011)

Since the 2011 version of “Fright Night” is actually a remake of the 1985 original (not a reimagining or a remix), we are considering it as one recommendation for two movies. Both “Fright Night” films offer top-notch entertainment, with different actors delivering impressive performances as the vampire Jerry Dandrige in hunk-next-door roles. You can choose between Colin Farrell and Chris Sarandon, depending on your preference, and if you’re concerned about originality, note that Imogen Poots, Toni Collette, David Tennant, and Anton Yelchin perfectly fit into the classic horror-comedy remake directed by Craig Gillespie, who also directed “I, Tonya.

VAMP (1986)

In a single film on this list, you’ll find Grace Jones, adorned with body paint by Keith Haring, portraying a stripper vampire who serves as the queen of a gentlemen’s club and selectively feeds on lonely men in a secret sex den hidden backstage. That movie is none other than VAMP. End of discussion.

Vampire’s Kiss (1988)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=gXDvM_tXfX8

It’s highly unlikely that any other film about psychosomatic vampirism will surpass the brilliance of “Vampire’s Kiss“. This is the Nicolas Cage movie that brought forth the iconic persona of “Rage Cage”, which he is still primarily associated with today. It showcases an actor on the brink, capable of reaching emotional highs few others can, and this is mirrored in his frenetic physicality. In this film, Nicolas Cage gives a fearless performance as a New York City literary agent who becomes obsessed with the idea that he has been transformed into a bloodthirsty vampire. The movie takes a comedic turn towards madness, but it gains even more significance when you realize that you’re witnessing one of the most uniquely talented actors of his generation solidify his star image.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

This “Dracula” film is exhibited like a museum artifact. Director Francis Ford Coppola brings an eerie, extravagant gothic touch to this timeless story of the Prince of Darkness, Jonathan Harker, and Mina, their intricate love triangle. Gary Oldman, Keanu Reeves, and Winona Ryder headline this stellar cast under Coppola’s direction. The grand acting is set against lavish sets and costumes that are nothing short of breathtaking. To top it off, Monica Bellucci graces the screen as one of Dracula’s brides. This cinematic masterpiece truly showcases the best in Hollywood talent!

Cronos (1992)

In terms of Guillermo del Toro’s vampire films with the most recognition, it might be Blade II. However, a full nine years prior to that, when he was predominantly working in Spanish, his debut feature was Cronos. This movie revolves around an antique dealer who discovers a centuries-old artifact. When he picks it up, it attaches itself and bestows eternal life upon him. But with this newfound eternity comes an insatiable darkness – the thirst for more. Enthralled by his renewed youth and vigor, the man must weigh whether the extended lifespan is worth the potential cost, which could involve even his own granddaughter.

Nadja (1994)

Instead of creating a list of vampire movies that only rehash Dracula, we aimed to provide an alternative approach – a 90’s art-house spin focusing on Count Dracula’s descendants residing in New York City, which is too enticing not to incorporate. This David Lynch-produced black-and-white indie film features Peter Fonda as Van Helsing, Elina Löwensohn as Nadja, and Jared Harris as her brother, Edgar. The plot revolves around the famous vampire hunter and his offspring confronting the progeny of Dracula. Notably, it includes dialogue such as “receiving a psychic fax” and its trailer showcases Portishead music. This vampire flick is perfect for Gen-X enthusiasts.

From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)

To add an extra layer of excitement to this collection, Robert Rodriguez’s “From Dusk Till Dawn” offers a unique blend of action, horror, and rock ‘n roll for your vampire-themed entertainment. The Gecko brothers, portrayed by Quentin Tarantino and George Clooney, find themselves on the run after a bank heist turns lethal. To ensure their safety, they kidnap a preacher (Harvey Keitel) and his family. Upon crossing into Mexico, they pause at a strip club, only to discover it’s a nest of vampires they must fight their way out of.

Blade (1998)

Blade stands out as an exceptional film in many ways. It’s a captivating vampire movie that might just be the best comic-book adaptation for horror enthusiasts. It’s simply a fantastic movie, period. Wesley Snipes portrays the epitome of undead charisma as the protagonist Blade, with Stephen Dorff providing the perfect contrast as his sly antagonist. Blade delved into a hidden world beneath our own long before John Wick made its debut. Moreover, it pioneered combat rave fashions years prior to The Matrix popularizing the trend in 1999. Udo Kier experiences a gruesome ordeal involving pliers and tooth extraction, while Kris Kristofferson plays a weathered vampire hunter. This film offers everything you could ask for, including the iconic line, “Some motherfuckers are always trying to ice-skate uphill.” What a treat!

30 Days of Night (2007)

This film is incredibly well-made, with a swift and polished pace. The perpetual winter backdrop intensifies the vampire invasion in this remote Alaskan town, creating an unrelenting and seemingly inescapable atmosphere. Unlike traditional portrayals, these vampires are not seductive; instead, they’re terrifying, soulless creatures with black eyes. Yet, Danny Huston delivers a captivating performance as the Lead Vampire. In terms of 2000s high-gloss horror productions, 30 Days is a rare gem, lean and powerful.

Let the Right One In (2008)

As a cinephile, I must confess that “Let the Right One In” stands out as an exceptional Swedish vampire tale, brimming with unique distinctions. It’s a fantastic movie, offering a refreshing perspective on one of horror genre’s most familiar monsters – the vampire. This film is not only captivating but also pushes the boundaries of queer representation, serving as a seminal work that paved the way for the surge of art-house horror films in the 2010s, giving birth to cinematic gems like “The Witch” and “The Babadook”. In essence, “Let the Right One In” is a poignant coming-of-age drama revolving around a solitary young boy who forms an unlikely friendship with an enigmatic preteen newcomer in his apartment complex. Eli conceals many secrets, but Oskar’s fascination with her peculiarities transcends all boundaries – leading to an unusual bond that, while not quite romantic, is certainly memorable!

Thirst (2009)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=YFDWH7q61iI

2009’s film by Park Chan-wook centers around a Catholic priest who consents to test an experimental vaccine to combat a lethal virus. Regrettably, the cure proves ineffective, but it does imbue the priest with an insatiable craving for blood and carnal desire instead. Known as “Thirst”, this movie earned the Jury Prize at Cannes and was also nominated for the Palme d’Or, which adds significant acclaim to this unconventional South Korean horror-drama.

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)

In 2014, my support was with Ana Lily Amirpour’s Persian vampire Western at Sundance, which quickly became the talk of the horror scene. Around the same time, films like “It Follows,” “Goodnight Mommy,” and “The Babadook” were also making waves at film festivals. Together, these movies ignited a significant art-house horror movement in the late 2010s that I was proud to be part of.

Bloodsucking Bastards (2015)

The film titled “Bloodsucking Bastards” initially sets the stage with a humor-laden, office-based narrative, reminiscent of “Office Space.” However, it soon transforms into a unique blend of comedy and horror as characters find themselves battling hordes of vampires to break free from their workplace. Notably, this film features Fran Kranz, lending it an indie horror vibe that is distinctively his. The movie is sharp-witted and rooted in everyday work tensions. Additionally, it boasts the talents of Emma Fitzpatrick and Pedro Pascal, who played a difficult boss before gaining fame on “Game of Thrones.” Watch this when you’re feeling disenchanted with your job.

Carmilla (2019)

While the girl-on-girl wave of vampire movies in the 1970s might be the most visible era of Carmilla-inspired works, this adaptation from 2019 is one of the best you’ll find. It’s less gauzy leering at lady vamps touching other ladies (which is also great!) and more of a literary adaptation. A lot of movies in this subset of vampire stories are entertaining or lurid or both, but this one from director Emily Harris is actually a good movie, too.

Vampires vs. the Bronx (2020)

As a movie enthusiast, I’d say that not all picks on this list are suitable for family viewing, but “Vampires vs. The Bronx” could be an exception for some families who are busy carving pumpkins and enjoying movies together. It’s essentially about a group of local kids uniting when they discover their community is under attack – by gentrifiers, or so it seems… but with a twist: these aren’t your typical gentrifiers; they’re vampires! Yes, you heard that right – the bloodsuckers are the ones infiltrating and draining the life out of residents.

Last Voyage of the Demeter (2023)

The Last Voyage of the Demeter is a throwback to classic vampire stories that was unfortunately overlooked when it was released in 2023. Director André Øvredal did an excellent job adapting Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, but Demeter feels like a return to the intensity of movies such as Trollhunter and Autopsy of Jane Doe. The story takes place on a ship sailing towards London, and becomes a survival horror tale as the crew begins to mysteriously disappear, with a terrifying stowaway hidden below deck revealed as the culprit. Øvredal has a knack for both revealing and concealing his creatures effectively, and the vampire in Demeter is a modern, swift, and fearsome monster that seems out of place in an old-fashioned Hammer-style sea horror story. Kudos to actor Javier Botet for bringing the chilling creature to life on screen.

Slay (2024)

Imagine if the movie “From Dusk Till Dawn” was reimagined with a band of drag queens as the main characters, finding themselves in a rowdy hillbilly bar at the wrong time, only to find themselves under siege by the undead. In that case, it would certainly be titled “Slay“. This film offers an ideal blend of after-school-special themed messages about acceptance amidst its R-rated action and humor. It might even stir a heartfelt emotion as one of its rough-around-the-edges protagonists undergoes a transformative makeover, discovering his true identity. The excessive nature of vampires and drag makes for an extraordinary union, with characters living up to their most outrageous potential.

2024-10-29 19:55