With it being over ten years since I have watched this, I recently gave it a re-watch. After which I decided this is quite a remarkable movie and I should give it a review. With all the superficial vampire/werewolf movies out there these days, it is important to remember and respect the genuinely great creature feature horrors. They don't rely on pointless storylines or glittery vampires. This movie gives you chills and you are constantly unsettled throughout. We are given a history of the vampire clan in an entertaining manner. With an order of hierarchy and certain rules to be followed. But some vampires loathe those rules and choose to break them, thus making a great movie. As I always say, a movie without conflict is a movie without a soul. It is original in many ways, the rules of vampires in terms of their supernatural abilities, and the rules they give themselves, the historical background, and other elements. Yet it also takes some other staples from vampire movies and gives them an edgy remake. The student vampire learning from his master (sire). Then the girl who is lured into a vampire's clutches. Sub-plots old and done before, but in this movie they are given a new sheen of life; it is utterly enthralling. It also boasts a very talented cast. We have Aaliyah taking the role of Queen Akasha. A deadly seductress who rebels from the rules of their kind. Then an outstanding performance from Stuart Townsend who plays Lestat. A vampire who also despises the rules and makes that pretty clear by some bold choices which compel the other vampires to act or put the discovery of their kind at risk. Marguerite Moreau plays a woman with a difficult past (Jesse Reeves). The typical tortured girl act but Marguerite brings a new zest of life to that tired 'I'm helpless but curious' routine. There are many other actors who really make this movie. From vampires to humans. Then we cannot forget the soundtrack. The foundation of most good movies. An alluring and disturbing soundtrack that blends perfectly with the mood and tempo of the flick. A subtle, somber, eerie and tense vibe. The music and acting work hand-in-hand to portray this feel to the film. We have some rather superb scenery in the movie. From magnificent castles to concerts, and bustling cities. This movie doesn't miss a beat when it comes to putting all the elements together and producing an outstanding movie that will be enjoyed for years to come. And judging by online ratings/reviews, it is still enjoyed ten years plus its release. More of these type of vampire movies should be made. Not glorified, over-rated teen love stories. So pray fellow horror fiends, pray for genuine creature feature horror flicks to grace our screens very soon. We need more originals. Love horror movies, and generally all things horror? Want a FREE bestselling, award-winning collection of short horror stories? Then subscribe to my free monthly horror newsletter! wesleythomashorrorauthor.weebly.com |