Vampire Movies You Can Really Sink Your Teeth Into

Vampires have been around for centuries, vampire movies, on the other hand, it wasn’t until the early 1900s that they made their big break onto the silver screen.

And since then, there have been many approaches to these bloodsuckers, including origins, parodies, originality, awesome adaptations, numerous films featuring your main man, Dracula, those cool 80s’ vamps, and who can overlook the just as iconic, slayers they’re pinned against.

Whatever angle they went for, this list is for those vampire movies audiences can really sink their teeth into and what makes each incarnation for these creatures of the night uniquely brilliant.

‘Love at First Bite’ (1979)

Love at First Bite, a spoof on the classic tale, sees a late 20th Century Dracula (George Hamilton) looking his usual suave self, having to relocate to New York City, after being forced to vacate his castle in Transylvania.

After dropping down in the big apple with his trusty sidekick Renfield (Arte Johnson), it’s not long before he has his eyes set on a new love interest. However, as is common with the Prince of Darkness, she who he has his eyes set on is already taken. A comedic portrayal on this classic tale, from Renfield’s laugh to Dracula getting hammered after drinking the blood of a drunk homeless man, there’s definitely laughs to be had with this parody.

‘Vampire in Brooklyn’ (1995)

What if when coming to America, instead of Akeem being a prince, he was a bloodsucking creature of the night? The answer, Vampire in Brooklyn.

This dark comedy sees a Caribbean vampire known as Maximillian (Eddie Murphy) journey to New York to find a half-human, half-vampire hybrid, to keep his bloodline from ending. Paying homage to both horror and comedy, from Maximillian’s constantly decomposing sidekick (Kadeem Hardison) to Murphy doing what he does best and suiting up in multiple roles, it’s fair to say this movie is layered with variety.

‘Night Watch’ (2004)

Set in Moscow, this Russian tale sees a group of people who possess supernatural abilities, labelled as the “Other’s”. The division sees one group who governs the day and the other half governing the night. The forces of dark essentially roam the night as vampires, bound only by night times limitations.

Taking audience members by surprise with its creepy visuals, this metropolis-esque setting sees an alternative, somewhat political telling of a story that differs from its American counterparts such as Underworld.

‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1992)

Before the hit TV show, came the movie that inspired it, Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1992). Although the movie had a higher age certificate and was able to get away with slightly more carnage, it still had a campier quality than that of its television counterpart.

In saying that the movie is not without its strengths, with Kristen Swanson playing the badass Buffy herself and Donald Sutherland as her tutor Merrick, the original incarnation is still an entertaining vamp-ass kicking feature.

‘Daybreakers’ (2009)

An alternative take on your usual vamp flick, Daybreakers hits on the hypothetical question that’s surrounded bloodsuckers since they first came about. . . What would happen if vampires took over the world?

The result is none too surprising, after a plague turns the majority of earth’s population into vampires, leaving only about 5% humans remaining, being the leeches they are, their food supply inevitably becomes critically low.

Whilst trying to find a cure for the disease that has plagued them, they must also battle it out against the deprived animal hybrid vamps that were spawned from hunger. An original story that stood out amongst its other vamp-film peers at the time and does a particularly good job of going in a different direction within its genre.

‘The Fearless Vampire Killers, or: Pardon Me, But Your Teeth Are in My Neck’ (1967)

This dark comedy follows the lives of two vampire hunters, Professor Abronisius (Jack MacGowan) and his moronic apprentice, Alfred (Roman Polanski). The duo finds themselves on their latest mission, rescuing an innkeeper’s daughter from the dreaded Count von Krocklock (an obvious vampire).

A movie that knows when to be funny and certainly knows when to give you a fright. The open space setting, as well as the movie itself, screams Roman Polanski and is certainly a testament to an alternative vamp flick that’s been done well.

‘Dracula: Dead and Loving It’ (1995)

This movie not only parodies the source material/novels but also film adaptions, as we follow Dracula (Leslie Neilson) -in a setting not too dissimilar to the movie Bram Stoker’s Dracula- as he gets up to his usual antics (satisfying his thirst on the regular, seeking a new bride etc)

This film sees the pairing of two comedy titans (as well as an all-around hilarious cast) to tell the story of one of the most famous horror icons of all time. With Mel Brooks behind the wheel (as well as playing Van Helsing himself) and Leslie Neilson riding shotgun as the prince of darkness, a laugh a minute if not more frequently is certainly insured.

‘Underworld’ (2003)

Post-Blade saw vampire movies incorporating more action than horror when hitting the big screen and none is more action-packed than Underworld. The story sees a battle between Vampires and Lycans (Werewolves) that has been ongoing for centuries.

Now in the 21st century, vampire, Selene (Kate Beckinsale) somewhat of a rogue amongst her peers (with the ass-kicking skills to match) aids in helping the mortal doctor known as Michael, protecting him from the Lycan’s. Vampires, werewolves and vampire-werewolves, this adventure is a movie for both action and horror fans alike!

‘Innocent Blood’ (1992)

This film sees Director John Landis follow on from his success with An American Werewolf in London and tackle the other infamous creatures of the night, Vampires.

Following the story of Marie (Anne Parillaud), a vampire that seems to have developed a taste for mafia members. After failing to dispose of a particularly violent mob boss (Robert Loggia), he recruits the help of his cronies, bringing them into the shadows with a bite to the neck.

Doing what he does best Landis is able to tell a story that, at its roots, is a brilliant tale of horror, whilst simultaneously adding those comedic gems he does so well. Gangsters, Vampires and Gangster-Vampires, what more could you ask for?

‘The Hunger’ (1983)

Directed by the legendary Tony Scott (Top Gun, True Romance), this movie showed vampire eroticism like never before. Being set in the 80s’ it’s only fair that one of the biggest love symbols of all time [David Bowie] was offered a role in this sexy vamp feature.

Alas, our Starman’s looks don’t last very long as he begins to decay alongside his immortal vampire lover, Miriam (Catherine Deneuve). Whom soon begins to pursue a new love interest, Sarah (Susan Sarandon). Sarah however isn’t as susceptible as Miriam’s previous partner which causes ructions of hostile proportions between the two.

‘John Carpenter’s Vampires’ (1998)

Much like James Cameron’s Aliens, this movie’s title is a literal reference to what you’ll be getting, in that there’s more than one bloodsucker our heroes are pitted against.

Although this movie was at the back end of what was considered to be John Carpenter’s “prime”, this film incorporates everything he does so well. In short, a gritty protagonist, Jack Crow (James Woods), partnered with beautifully, graphic, practical effects.

The story sees Crow and his ragtag gang of vampire hunters battling these creatures of the night, soon to be creatures of the day. As the head vamp, known as Jan Valek (Ian Griffith) hunts for a special talisman that will endow him with the ability to be exposed to the sunlight, without fatal consequences!

Rest assured if you like action, gore, Carpenter and especially, vampires, this one belongs in everyone’s Nosferatu related collection!

’30 Days of Night’ (2007)

Based on the comic book miniseries of the same name, we follow a group of townspeople in the far northern hemisphere of Alaska where they get a solid month without sunlight. Unfortunately for them, this attracts the attention of some hungry vampires who are like kids in a candy store.

This dark, gritty, horror stays true in tone and style to that of its source material, portraying vampires in a more animal-like interpretation in this survival movie that manages to encompass terror and gore simultaneously.

‘From Dusk Till Dawn’ (1996)

You know when Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez get together, you’re always in for a treat, and From Dusk Till Dawn is certainly no exception.

Set up like a typical Tarantino-esque feature, we follow two criminals known as the Gecko brothers (George Clooney and Tarantino) attempting to escape the feds by crossing the border into Mexico. After gaining safe passage over the border, it’s not long before they find their rendezvous (The Titty Twister) is in fact a trap set up by ravenous bloodsuckers to lure in truckers.

This movie totally took audience members by surprise, as it isn’t until the second half that most viewers even realised they were watching a vampire movie!

From Dusk Till Dawn incorporates both filmmaker’s strengths, giving you this insane, darkly comedic, action-packed, extravaganza of a horror movie with a twist. . . it even features a crotch gun!

‘Blade’ (1998)

Featuring the kickass daywalker that is Blade (Wesley Snipes), a half-human, half-vamp, hunter with all of his fanged foe’s strengths and none of their weaknesses (except their thirst).

An amazing story in its own right, this gritty tale pulls no punches when it comes to action and gore. This film actually accomplished more than a lot of people realise. Not only did this movie spawn a successful sequel (Blade II directed by Guillermo del Toro) but it also featured the first (technical) bullet time effect and most importantly, ignited Marvel Comics place in cinema!

‘Near Dark’ (1987)

Photo: De Laurentiis Entertainment Group

Encompassing humour as well as horror, Near Dark sees our main man Caleb (Adrian Pasdar) travelling across the country in a trailer with a bunch of bloodsuckers, as he battles with the decision of becoming a vampire too.

Released the same year as The Lost Boys, the two films would go on to experience a rivalry of sorts, in that audiences would generally prefer one over the other. However, given its higher certificate, the creatures of the night in this flick pull no punches when it comes to hunting their prey, especially during a particular bar scene. . .

‘The Monster Squad’ (1987)

Horror’s answer to The Goonies, The Monster Squad follows a bunch of kids in a club based around, you guessed it, Monsters (namely all the greats from the universal monsters).

Unfortunately for the gang, whilst going about their daily monster obsessed business, Dracula (Duncan Regehr) shows up. Not only that but he’s brought his friends along for the ride, The Wolfman, The Mummy, Frankenstein’s monster AKA Frank, even the creature from the black lagoon!

Dracula (sporting his classic cloak and pendant) has gathered his troops together for the 100th anniversary in which he can use an amulet, read an incantation and cast a shadow of darkness over the world. Showing Dracula’s sinister side in somewhat of a new light, this adaptation isn’t afraid to end a kid’s life (or flat-out swear in a toddler’s face whilst hoisting them up by their chin) to get what he wants.

Fortunately for the Monster Squad, the amulet also has the ability to banish these evil beings. This movie has all the violence (#wolfmansgotnards), graphic content and bad language you’d generally find in a horror movie, all the while being carried through the medium of these innocently, hilarious protagonists.

‘Let the Right One In’ (2008)

Let the Right One In AKA Låt den rätte komma in is a refreshing twist on a creature of horror that has been recycled time and time again. This interpretation sees a 12-year-old boy befriend a girl that has recently moved next door. However, it’s not long before the boy starts to connect the girl’s oddities with the gruesome murders that have been occurring around town recently. The eerie setting for this alternative coming of age tale feels like a Stephen Spielberg movie in a Stephen King universe.

Although the 2010 English remake (Let Me In) is one of the few movies (especially in horror) that did a decent job of retelling a foreign piece of cinema, it still doesn’t beat the original relationship between the young boy and girl, a girl who has been 12 years old for quite some time. . .

‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ (1992)

Going back to its roots, this film follows the novella written by Bram Stoker himself.

Featuring the most popular vamp of all time, this classic tale sees Dracula (Gary Oldman) in many forms, a decaying old man, young and youthful (after replenishing himself with the help of poor Keanu Reeves) and flashing back to his Vlad origins.

The story sees Dracula seeking his recent victim, Harker’s (Reeves) fiancé to claim her as his own, a poetic love story told by the visionary that is Francis Ford Coppola.

Also, there is a raunchy love scene with a woman and man-wolf-beast. . . wait, what!?

‘Dracula’ (1931)

Bela Lugosi portraying, undoubtedly the most popular vampire of them all, Dracula, for the characters first-ever onscreen debut! Sleeping in his coffin by day, searching for potential victims by night, here we have the original interpretation, famous for inspiring the iconic look we associate Dracula with to this day.

A terrifying, hypnotic gaze, accompanied by his infamous Transylvanian accent, this Dracula went on to inspire tropes that would be used by, not only Vamp flicks but horror movies to this very day.

‘Dracula’ (1958)

Hammer Films answer to Dracula, we have Christopher Lee portraying the Prince of Darkness himself. Going back to its roots we see the count face off against the legendary Van Helsing (Peter Cushing) himself.

Bringing a new dynamic to the character with his limited vocabulary and horrifying bloodshot eyes, not to mention gore (compared to previous incarnations), this film portrayed Dracula in a way that had never been seen before. This secured Lee’s place alongside Legosi himself with his memorable performance for a character he would continue to play in several more instalments.

‘Salem’s Lot’ (1979)

Photo: Warner Bros. Television Distribution

Based on the popular Stephen King novel of the same name, this unsettling tale focuses on the eerie town of Salem. Directed by Tobe Hooper (The Texas chainsaw massacre), this film focuses more on the townspeople who fall victim to a mysterious force that has overshadowed their town. A force later revealed to be, Mr Barlow, the Nosferatu-esque head vampire.

With makeup that still holds up to this day, as well as a haunting vampire boy which will stay engraved in the mind of anyone who watches this flick, the slow pacing of this TV miniseries/movie really earns its scares.

‘Fright Night’ (1985)

The 80s’ saw the start of many things in the world of horror, but in this instance, Fright Night assisted in the dawn of the cool/sexy Vampire.

The story sees a young boy, Charlie Brewster (William Ragsdale) stumble upon the fact that his new neighbour is in fact a blood-sucking creature of the night (as well as enjoying the occasional piece of fruit), known as Jerry Dandridge (Chris Sarandon).

Feeding only when he needs to, he offers to spare Charlie if he lets him go about his business and keep to himself. However, this doesn’t fly with Charlie, a vamp is a vamp and he buddies up with famous Horror actor Peter Vincent (Roddy McDowell) to take on the nocturnal Dandridge (and the unknown entity that is Billy Cole).

Although very enjoyable, the 2011 remake failed to capture the spirit which made the original so enjoyable. This movie was able to combine horror, humour, not to mention terrifying practical effects. . . “YOU’RE SO COOL BREWSTER!”

‘What We Do in the Shadows’ (2014)

What We Do in the Shadows, a mockumentary that takes us into the household and lives of several vampires. Parodying all the clichés over the years as well as answering questions like “how on earth DO vampires get dressed without a reflection?” and “what happens if a bloodsucker ate normal food?” (it isn’t pretty).

A story told by the comic genius, Taika Waititi (Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Jojo Rabbit) and Jemaine Clement (Flight of the Conchords). These creatures of the night are as hilarious as they are carnivorous, constantly battling with their own set of first world problems, not getting into clubs unless invited in, the dreaded dishwashing rota and hostile altercations with a bunch of werewolves (not swear-wolves).

‘Interview with the Vampire: The Vampire Chronicles’ (1994)

Generally, when following the life of a vampire on screen, it’s during one timeline, vampires living as long as they do, audiences will usually just get brief flashbacks at best. However, ‘Interview with the Vampire’ sees a bloodsucker known as Louis (Brad Pitt) regale in his life story to a writer (Christian Slater) in a hotel room.

Based on the best-selling book of the same name, we follow Louis through the centuries ever since the fateful night in which he was bitten by the one who turned him, Lestat (Tom Cruise). This tale certainly shows what the life of an immortal vampire would mean in its entirety, love, companionship, betrayal, adjusting to the evolution of mankind and of course, the hunger.

‘The Lost Boys’ (1987)

The Lost Boys -aptly named after the gang of youngsters that hang around with Peter Pan, who also don’t age – focuses more on how cool it is being a prince of darkness and certainly lives up to the movie’s tagline:

Party all night. Never grow old. Never die. It’s fun to be a vampire.

The story mainly centres around Michael (Jason Patrick), who begins slowly transitioning into a bloodsucker after getting in with the wrong crowd (of the vamp variety). All the while his younger sibling Sam (Corey Haim) doing everything in his power to save his big brother.

The Lost Boys encompasses everything there was to love about the ’80s, MTV, cool biker’s, absolutely jacked topless dudes playing the saxophone. . . and Alex Winter.

‘Nosferatu’ (1922)

The film that started it all, we have the very first vamp flick ever made, Nosferatu AKA Nosferatu, eine Symphonie des Grauens. This gothic tale starts in the mountains of Transylvania, following the trials and tribulations of the eerie Count Orlok (Max Schreck).

This silent film shows the Count communicate horror through stances, movements and shadows alone. Not only did it go on to make sequels, as well as a movie regarding the making of this feature (Shadow of the Vampire), but the make-up and tropes used for this masterpiece would go on to be the foundation for horror movies everywhere.