10 Best ’80s Vampire Movies Ranked

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In essence, the 1980s wasn’t a golden era for vampire movies, as other horror icons like Jason and Freddy dominated the scene. Vampires were often overshadowed by these slasher characters in movies like “Fright Night,” with Roddy McDowall’s character Peter Vincent remarking that people preferred to see masked killers rather than vampires. Consequently, most vampire films during this period were considered secondary or B-movies, such as “To Die For,” comedies like “Once Bitten,” and hybrid titles like “Vampire’s Kiss” with Nicolas Cage. While the ’80s did produce some notable vampire movies, they didn’t quite reach the heights of the all-time greats; interestingly, three of these films made it onto our list, despite their Rotten Tomatoes scores typically ranging from the mid-50s to low 80s.

Let’s delve into the 1980s’ captivating vampire films, where we find some unforgettable scenes and several authentic horror masterpieces. Come along, fellow night dwellers, as we countdown the top 10 vampire movies of the 1980s.

10. Sundown: The Vampire in Retreat

1989’s “Sundown: The Vampire in Retreat” is filled with unique concepts, although it may not create a completely fulfilling movie experience. However, these unconventional ideas help this lesser-known horror-comedy-Western distinguish itself from the ’80s vampire genre. In this film, David Carradine portrays a kind Count Dracula who aims to establish peace with humans by inventing an artificial blood substitute. Unfortunately, his forward-thinking strategies are disrupted by his former loyal lieutenant (John Ireland), who desires to resume biting people, and the inept grandson of Professor Van Helsing (Bruce Campbell), who shows that vampire hunting is not necessarily a skill passed down through generations.

Anthony Hickox, the late filmmaker of “Waxworks”, skillfully balances both good and not-so-good concepts, but the most entertaining ones, such as a gunfight between vampires and cowboys armed with wooden bullets, are pure delight. Campbell’s comedic performances are always enjoyable, and there are humorous contributions from Maxwell Caulfield, M. Emmet Walsh, and Deborah Foreman. Among the cast, Carradine, portraying Dracula following his father John Carradine’s rendition in “Billy the Kid vs. Dracula”, delivers a dedicated performance that stands out. As Warped Perspective puts it, this film offers traditional entertainment with an authentic appeal, even in its less impressive moments, filled with likable characters and never failing to keep viewers engaged for a single second.

Starring: David Carradine, Bruce Campbell

Director: Anthony Hickox

Year: 1989

Runtime: 104 minutes

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 53%

9. Vamp

1986’s “Vamp” is not generally considered a great vampire movie or even a good movie overall. It’s more of a wide-ranging mix of horror, comedy, and teen sex comedy. The plot revolves around college guys going to a strip club to hire a dancer as part of an initiation for their fraternity. Things improve slightly when the dancer is revealed to be a vampire, but not by much. However, the film’s co-writer and director, Richard Wenk (who later became a popular action screenwriter like in “The Equalizer”), manages to save it with some eccentric scenes and Grace Jones’ captivating performance as the titular character.

Reddit users have suggested that the TV series “Vamp” shares many characteristics with the film “From Dusk Till Dawn.” Both stories take place in strip clubs inhabited by vampires, and both feature a powerful female vampire as the main character. At first, these settings are portrayed humorously; for instance, in “Vamp,” Sandy Baron plays a comically aware club owner who accepts that his customers are creepy enough to be easily preyed upon by the dancers. However, the humor soon gives way to horror. While Salma Hayek’s character in “From Dusk Till Dawn” is captivating, the main vampire in “Vamp,” Katrina, is a more intriguing figure. She remains completely silent, dresses in metal attire and body paint designed by Keith Haring, and leaves ’80s screen vampires appearing almost amateurish in comparison. As the Los Angeles Times noted, Katrina’s heavy-lidded stare and sinuous physique make her a nocturnal creature brimming with brooding, sexual menace.

Starring: Chris Makepeace, Grace Jones

Director: Richard Wenk

Year: 1986

Runtime: 93 minutes

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 40%

8. Graveyard Shift

The term “Graveyard Shift” being used here isn’t related to one of Stephen King’s worst films, but instead refers to the 1986 Canadian indie movie titled “Central Park Drifter.” Despite its modest budget, this film creates an eerie atmosphere and presents a unique narrative. The vampire character, Stephen Tsepes (played by Michael A. Miranda credited as Silvio Oliviero), works the night shift as a New York City cab driver to feed on the city’s undesirables unnoticed. Although this arrangement satisfies his thirst for blood and provides him with a group of vampire brides, Tsepes yearns for a more profound connection—which he finds in a struggling music video director (Helen Papas) dealing with a broken marriage and a terminal illness diagnosis.

Despite being constrained by budgetary restrictions and an emphasis on neon-lit erotic scenes, director Jerry Ciccoritti manages to infuse “Graveyard Shift” with a captivating blend of urban grittiness and visual flair. At its finest, it hints at a dark alliance between the early works of Abel Ferrara, renowned for his provocative films like Pasolini, and the arthouse-influenced, hormonally charged vampire movies of French cult director Jean Rollin. As Kim Newman, a critic, noted, it has clever nuances, such as the climactic battle staged on a makeshift gothic rock video set, yet it maintained an earnest approach to its subject matter when most vampire films were leaning towards self-parody during that period. A 1988 follow-up titled “The Understudy: Graveyard Shift II” resurrected the characters Oliviero/Miranda as a new vampire starring in a horror film.

Starring: Michael A. Miranda, Helen Papas

Director: Gerard Ciccoritti

Year: 1987

Runtime: 89 minutes

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 36%

7. The Trail

As a gaming enthusiast who’s always on the lookout for unique characters, I can tell you that the Jiangshi, a Chinese hopping vampire, gained global fame post 1985’s horror-comedy “Mr. Vampire.” But did you know these chilling creatures were already appearing in Chinese films as early as 1936? One of the best pre-“Mr. Vampire” Jiangshi flicks was “The Trail,” directed by Ronny Yu, who later became famous for his critically acclaimed fantasy films like “The Bride with White Hair.” Before moving to Hollywood, he made “Bride of Chucky.” “The Trail” blends the humor and wild special effects of “Mr. Vampire,” but Yu infuses it with his signature visually stunning scenes and clever dialogue. He also brought in Ricky Hui, the star of “Mr. Vampire,” to play a bumbling sidekick opposite Kent Cheng’s Captain, who runs a sham jiangshi transportation service using Taoist spells to move them towards their graves. However, things get complicated when a real Jiangshi joins the group, forcing Cheng and Hui to act heroic.

In the movie “The Trail,” Yu’s jiangshi character appears and behaves more like a zombie rather than a traditional Chinese movie vampire, with its green complexion and braided hairpiece. This gives the horror elements of the film a stronger emphasis, while the comedic aspects take a back seat. However, “The Trail” is not devoid of humor: The movie contains plenty of physical and crude comedy (including a scene involving a jug of urine), as well as an homage to “The Exorcist” in its climax. Eastern Kicks’ review describes the film as being drenched in atmospheric creepiness, and highly praises the director’s unique visual style, arguing that it is worthy of rediscovery.

Starring: Ricky Hui, Kent Cheng

Director: Ronny Yu

Year: 1983

Runtime: 87 minutes

Rating: Not Rated

Rotten Tomatoes Score: N/A

6. Mr. Vampire

In brief, the character of the jiangshi transitioned from a figure rooted in Chinese folklore to a screen monster sensation following the release of “Mr. Vampire” in 1985. Much like other global monsters, it presents an unusual premise: A revived corpse that drains its victims’ life force (though exceptions exist, such as in “The Trail,” where they behave more like traditional vampires). Due to rigor mortis, these creatures can only hop, although some versions can run or fly. Despite being designed to instill fear, there’s an inherent humor in the image of a green-faced corpse dressed in traditional Chinese garb stiffly bouncing while hunting for food. The martial arts icon Sammo Hung was the first to capitalize on the comical aspects of jiangshi with the 1981 film “Encounters of the Spooky Kind,” and he continued to showcase them in “Mr. Vampire.

The movie titled “Ricky Lau’s directorial work”, produced by Hung, is a chaotic, rebellious comedy, reminiscent of a Hong Kong rendition of “Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein” blended with “Evil Dead II”. Set in the backdrop of two bumbling assistants unleashing chaos after freeing a jiangshi, the plot thickens with an amorous ghost and an incompetent police inspector. The action, a blend of meticulously choreographed martial arts and slapstick, follows the efforts of Ching-ying to contain the vampire and his cronies. Humor is derived from diverse methods to ward off jiangshi, such as sticky rice or a Taoist scroll. Later, Ching-ying reprised his stern role as a jiangshi hunter in numerous sequels.

Starring: Lam Ching-ying, Ricky Hui

Director: Ricky Lau

Year: 1985

Runtime: 96 minutes

Rating: Not Rated

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%

5. The Hunger

The character Miriam, a sophisticated vampire played by Catherine Deneuve, gets confused between addiction and affection when she leaves her current partner (David Bowie) for a human scientist (Susan Sarandon). However, the ending is weak and reminiscent of a B-movie, as Deneuve’s former undead lovers reappear to seek vengeance. Despite these issues, the film benefits from its impressive cast – especially the inspired choice of David Bowie as a vampire – and Tony Scott’s striking, eerie visual style.

The movie’s adoption of the flourishing New York New Wave culture, symbolized by Bauhaus playing “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” during its initial scenes, has kept it alive, much like a vampire, within today’s goth subculture. Its blend of horror, fashion, LGBTQ, and punk elements can be traced in every gloomy, leather-clad, and queer vampire character that emerged after it. As The New York Times review put it, “This film is perfectly suited to its quick cuts, overlapping dialogues, dazzling cinematography, trendy attires, and decor so exquisite that only legendary beings could lounge around in it.

Starring: Catherine Deneuve, Susan Sarandon, David Bowie

Director: Tony Scott

Year: 1983

Runtime: 97 minutes

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 58%

4. Vampire Hunter D (1985)

An extended anime version based on Hideyuki Kikuchi’s widely acclaimed fantasy-horror novels, “Vampire Hunter D,” might appear somewhat dated to contemporary animation and horror enthusiasts, who have been exposed to more advanced and gorier anime horror (ranging from mature anime like “Hellsing” to “Vampire Princess Miyu”) since its 1985 debut. However, “Vampire Hunter D” maintains its relevance due to its eclectic mix of genres — incorporating post-apocalyptic science fiction, Italian Westerns, among other unique elements.

The story unfolds on a world scarred by nuclear conflict and infested with vampires, where the fearsome Count Magnus Lee clashes with D, a dhampir (half-human, half-vampire) monster hunter. Doris, a human, is the person Lee seeks to control, while D aims to rescue her from the count’s grasp. Remarkably, D possesses a hidden advantage—a sentient symbiote in his left hand that grants him various abilities.

Director Toyoo Ashida fearlessly incorporates violence, yet skillfully creates a hauntingly Gothic ambiance throughout the film. He masterfully weaves multiple storylines and influences together, resulting in a compelling (though bizarre) narrative. Remarkably, “Vampire Hunter D” is an enthralling viewing experience for fans of anime, fantasy, and horror alike. Those who missed it in ’85 will have another opportunity to watch it, as “Vampire Hunter D” will be screened in U.S. theaters in 2025 to mark its 40th anniversary celebration.

Starring: Kaneto Shiozawa (Japanese version), Michael McConnohie (English dub)

Director: Toyoo Ashida

Year: 1985

Runtime: 80 minutes

Rating: Not rated

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 78%

3. Near Dark

In Kathryn Bigelow’s vampire thriller “Near Dark”, there are numerous striking aspects that might overshadow its flaws. It serves as a strong demonstration of Bigelow’s abilities, particularly in creating tense action sequences and setting an eerie mood. The film is enlivened by compellingly wild performances from three actors who worked with her on “Aliens” – Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, and Jenette Goldstein, portraying the powerful members of a bloodsucking family roaming the American Southwest. The leads, Adrian Pasdar (known for voicing Iron Man in various Marvel animated series) and Jenny Wright, are endearing couples, and the movie offers three outstanding scenes: An attack on a bar and its patrons, a motel gunfight, and Paxton’s confrontation with a big rig.

This film, despite being a modest flop at the box office, has an impressive impact due to its depth in the vampire genre during a time when they were often portrayed comically. It showcases the late Paxon’s captivating screen presence, stands out as a notable contribution to the Weird Old West subgenre, and served as a precursor for movies like “From Dusk Till Dawn,” “John Carpenter’s Vampires,” and the edgy vampires of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” As the Chicago Reader’s review noted, this film’s terror is both powerful and invigorating, making it an exceptional movie.

Starring: Adrian Pasdar, Bill Paxton, Lance Henriksen

Director: Kathryn Bigelow

Year: 1987

Runtime: 95 minutes

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%

2. The Lost Boys

1987’s “The Lost Boys,” directed by Joel Schumacher, manages an impressive feat by creating a horror film that appeals to both genre enthusiasts and those who usually avoid such films. This success is largely due to clever casting and a distinctive visual style. The movie captures teen idols Corey Haim and Corey Feldman at the peak of their popularity, while introducing three newcomers – Kiefer Sutherland, Jason Patric, and Jami Gertz – as promising rising stars. Additionally, Dianne Wiest, Edward Herrmann, and Barnard Hughes provide solid support as more realistic adult characters.

In the screenplay written by Jeffrey Boam, Janice Fischer, and James Jeremias, you’ll find thrilling moments that will make you jump out of your seat and humorous scenes that will bring a smile to your face. However, these two elements don’t always blend seamlessly. The true brilliance lies in the layers it adds – it explores teenagers’ conviction of their own invincibility, intertwined with timeless tales such as J.M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan” and rock and roll immortality. According to The Guardian, this film, in its unassuming manner, invites us to ponder that eternal youth isn’t a charming Edwardian symbol of innocence but rather a chilling depiction of hell, similar to vampirism.

In simpler terms, it all combines to create an exciting rollercoaster experience that has managed to captivate audiences for almost four decades, still receiving praise from fans today.

Starring: Corey Haim, Jason Patric, Kiefer Sutherland

Director: Joel Schumacher

Year: 1987

Runtime: 97 minutes

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 75%

1. Fright Night (1985)

Essentially, Tom Holland’s “Fright Night” effectively delivers a captivating take on the vampire genre in various aspects. The horror-comedy, set in a suburban neighborhood, cleverly combines traditional vampire lore with contemporary elements as it follows high school student Charley Brewster (William Ragsdale), who uncovers his neighbor’s (Chris Sarandon) true identity as a vampire. Moreover, the film acknowledges and respectfully pays tribute to the rich history of vampire movies by featuring a less-than-fearless vampire slayer, TV horror host Peter Vincent, portrayed brilliantly by Roddy McDowall. This character’s name serves as a nod to renowned horror actors Peter Cushing and Vincent Price.

Additionally, Jerry Dandridge, portrayed brilliantly by Sarandon, serves as an outstanding antagonist in this film. He openly performs his vampire duties, relying on people’s disbelief, yet his charm is so subtly disguised that he seems harmless to Charlie’s mother (Dorothy Fielding) and eludes complete comprehension by his girlfriend, Amy (Amanda Bearse). The movie, “Fright Night,” stands out for its authentic blend of humor and horror (thanks to Richard Edlund and Steve Johnson’s exceptional practical effects), and it insightfully addresses the challenges that come with teenage life, which, surprisingly, seem only slightly amplified by a monster. As Starburst puts it, “Fright Night” is a playful, affectionate tribute to the golden age of horror, yet it remains unique, offering a delightful rollercoaster ride of fear and excitement.

Starring: William Ragsdale, Roddy McDowall

Director: Tom Holland

Year: 1985

Runtime: 106 minutes

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%

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2025-05-02 17:32