These are reviews for three horror films that were adaptations of video games or had elements of the vampire genre. Let’s take a closer look at each film:
Since their inception in the silent film era with classics like “Nosferatu” and Bela Lugosi’s “Dracula” in 1931, vampire movies have left an indelible mark on cinematic history. The fascination with these mythical creatures peaked in the 2000s through blockbuster franchises such as “Twilight,” but their allure has remained consistent throughout the decades. Despite the numerous vampire films produced over the years, not every production managed to garner critical acclaim.
In the realm of Rotten Tomatoes, numerous vampire tales fail to secure the highest ranks. A number of these movies were commercial disappointments and received harsh criticisms upon their release. However, some managed to generate enough intrigue to spawn sequels and offshoots. Over time, certain films amass a dedicated fanbase who discover unique value in these stories. The undead nature of vampires seems to make it challenging for them to remain so in the public’s imagination.
12 Underworld: Evolution (2006) – 17%
The film “Underworld: Evolution” is the second part in the “Underworld” movie franchise, following up on the 2003 release. In this continuation, the character Selene endeavors to protect the half-werewolf Michael amid confrontations with the powerful vampire leader Kraven. New insights into the longstanding conflict between vampires and werewolves emerge, shedding light on the origins of the first vampire, the first werewolf, and Michael’s forebear.
Some Thought the Story Was Too Complicated
The intricate storyline of the film was a point of criticism for some viewers, who believed that the visuals received excessive emphasis at the expense of clarity. Nevertheless, the movie spawned several sequels, including “Underworld: Rise of the Lycans,” “Underworld: Awakening,” “Underworld: Blood Wars,” and the animated series “Underworld: Endless War.”
11 Queen of the Damned (2002) – 17%
The Queen of the Damned, penned by Anne Rice, serves as a continuation of sorts to her earlier work, Interview with the Vampire. In this tale, the vampire Lestat endeavors to transform into a rock star frontman. Yet, his newfound pursuit stirs up animosity among other vampires who fear the potential human exposure. Unbeknownst to them, Lestat’s music inadvertently summons an ancient Egyptian queen of the undead, Akasha, whose thirst for power will lead her to wipe out both humans and vampires indiscriminately.
The Film Topped the Box Office, But Was Still a Bomb
The production of this movie is notoriously problematic, with several challenges that arose during its making. Time pressures may have forced the rushed completion of the storyline, as Warner Bros.’ rights to Anne Rice’s work were about to expire. Tragically, Aaliyah, who played Akasha, passed away in a plane crash after finishing her scenes; her brother, Rashad Haughton, filled in for some of her dialogue. Despite opening at the box office upon release, the film went on to be panned financially and critically as a failure.
Rent on Apple TV
10 30 Days of Night: Dark Days (2010) – 17%
The fourth part in the “30 Days of Night” series, titled “30 Days of Night: Dark Days“, follows Stella Oleson’s journey as she endeavors to uncover the truth about vampires existing in the world. With the help of a clandestine informant called Dane, she is led to Los Angeles. However, her mission takes a darker turn when she becomes a target of Agent Norris, a human servant to the vampire regime. To her surprise, Stella discovers that she has been chosen to hunt down Lilith, the powerful queen of the vampires.
Fans Thought It Wasn’t As Subversive As the First
In contrast to the initial film, “Dark Days” stood out with more action scenes, whereas its prequel had a stronger focus on survival.
9 Dracula 2000 (2000) – 17%
In “Dracula 2000,” the horror story unfolds as Count Dracula, awakened by intruders, sets out in search of Mary, the estranged daughter of his long-time adversary, Van Helsing. Unbeknownst to Mary, her lineage with Van Helsing has kept her alive through transfusions of Dracula’s blood, forging an extraordinary telepathic connection between them. This film is known for its shocking revelation: Count Dracula is none other than the Biblical Judas Iscariot, who was transformed into a vampire as a result of his eternal curse from God.
The Film Still Got a Few Sequels
The film, notorious for its problematic and hurried production, failed to impress financially and critically. Yet, it spawned two follow-ups. Contrary to popular belief, Wes Craven only presented the project; in reality, it was Patrick Lussier who helmed the director’s chair.
Stream on Max
8 Immortally Yours (2009) – 11%
As a fan, I’d rephrase it this way: In the movie “Immortally Yours” or “Kiss of the Vampire,” which is a direct-to-DVD production, I was captivated by a strange man named Alex Stone at the opera. Unbeknownst to me, he was actually a vampire and part of a coven. His goal was to enlist my father, a renowned scientist, in an attempt to find a cure for his affliction. Simultaneously, my father was intrigued by the possibility that such research could unveil the mysteries of immortality. However, it turns out I wasn’t the only one with those aspirations.
The Story Was Unfavorably Compared to Twilight
Katherine Hawks, the actress behind Estelle Henderson in the movie, contributed as a scriptwriter as well. Some audiences speculated that the film bore resemblance to the freshly released adaptation of “Twilight” due to its newfound popularity.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video
7 Vampire in Brooklyn (1995) – 11%
In “Vampire in Brooklyn,” directed by Wes Craven, Eddie Murphy portrays multiple characters including the main character, Maximillian the vampire. Upon his arrival in New York City via boat, Max embarks on a quest to find a half-vampire woman before the upcoming full moon. Unbeknownst to him, this woman is none other than Rita Veder, an NYPD detective. Simultaneously, Julius, who is gradually morphing into a ghoul, assists Max in his search.
Considered a Weak Film For Both Murphy & Craven
During the making of the intended horror film, Sonja Davis, an accomplished stunt performer, tragically lost her life. It’s worth noting that Wes Craven initially envisioned a more comedic approach for this production. Debuting during the Halloween season, the movie was often criticized as one of Craven and Murphy’s less impressive works.
6 Dracula: Dead and Loving It (1995) – 11%
Dracula: Dead and Living It is a comical take on the horror genre, featuring Leslie Nielsen in the iconic role of Count Dracula and Mel Brooks portraying Dr. Van Helsing. The plot essentially adheres to the structure of Bram Stoker’s novel and the 1931 Universal film adaptation.
“Children of the Night… What a Mess They Make…”
In contemporary tales of vampires, Dracula is depicted as being vulnerable to sunlight. This notion is playfully mocked in a dream scene where Dracula steps out into the sun, believing he has overcome his vampiric nature, only to find himself smoldering. Ultimately, both the sun’s rays and Renfield’s bungling lead to Dracula’s demise.
The movie underperformed financially and received criticisms harsher than those for “Young Frankenstein.” It was also deemed one of Mel Brooks’ less impressive works. Nevertheless, it has developed a devoted fanbase since its initial release.
Rent on Apple TV
5 Once Bitten (1985) – 10%
In “Once Bitten,” Jim Carrey portrays the role of Mark, a teenage student who becomes enchanted by the Countess, an ancient vampire played by someone else, who relies on the blood of virgin males for her eternal youth and charm. As time passes, Mark starts transforming into a vampire himself. His girlfriend Robin then faces the responsibility to find a way and save him from this unfortunate fate.
An Early Film Role For Jim Carrey
The film is known for being an early film role of Jim Carrey. Much of the film’s humor comes from that it is becoming increasingly hard for the Countess to find virgin blood in a setting as hedonistic as 1980s Los Angeles. The film has often been compared to a vampiric version of Teen Wolf, which premiered a few months earlier. Interestingly enough, Michael J. Fox had originally been considered for Mark.
Stream on Fubo
4 Ultraviolet (2006) – 8%
In the captivating world of science fiction, I find myself enthralled by the film “Ultraviolet,” where I, as an ardent fan, follow Milla Jovovich’s character, Violet Song. Diagnosed with a vampiric illness that renders her an outcast in society, she resides in a future where those afflicted face certain death.
It Later Inspired an Anime
The movie unfortunately flopped at the box office and had to contend with rival vampire films, “Underworld: Evolution” and “Blade: Trinity,” during its premiere. Despite this rocky start, the film, featuring a comic book-like aesthetic, eventually served as a source of inspiration for the anime series, “Ultraviolet Code 044.”
3 Vampires Suck (2010) – 4%
As a gamer, I’d put it this way: In “Vampires Suck,” a hilarious comedy film, I discover that it pokes fun at the first two installments of “The Twilight Saga.” Moving to the quirky town of Sporks with my sheriff father, I cross paths with the enigmatic Edward Sullen. At first, I mistake him for one of the Jonas Brothers due to his alluring charm. Furthermore, I rekindle my friendship with Jacob White, who possesses an extraordinary ability to transform into a Chihuahua.
Concurrently, wicked vampires have been preying upon locals, sparking accusations against Canadians.
“From the Guys Who Couldn’t Sit Through Another Vampire Movie!”
The critically-panned movie surprised audiences with strong box office sales. Some viewers found certain gags to be incongruous, such as Alice from “Wonderland” making a surprise appearance. Nevertheless, many considered it one of Seltzer and Friedberg’s more successful spoof productions. Notably, Jenn Proske’s portrayal of Becca was highly commended by critics.
2 BloodRayne (2005) – 4%
The film “BloodRayne” is an enthralling fusion of action and horror genres, derived from the popular video game series of the same title. It lays the groundwork for the events depicted in the first installment in the game, providing a captivating prequel storyline. In this narrative, Rayne is portrayed as a unique character – a vampire-human hybrid, or “dhampir.” Her lineage is traced back to her father, Kagan, who holds the ominous title of the vampire king. He harbors an insidious plan to annihilate mankind, enlisting both human and vampire forces to carry out his malevolent intentions. Simultaneously, the “Brimstone Society,” a tenacious band of vampire hunters, endeavors to enlist Rayne’s formidable abilities to thwart these imminent threats to humanity.
The Story of a Dhampir
Critics harshly dismissed the movie, with audiences in particular expressing disapproval towards its portrayal of fight sequences. The production was also faulted for straying from the original storyline. Surprisingly, the film spawned a couple of sequels: “BloodRayne 2: Deliverance” and “BloodRayne: The Third Reich”.
Stream on Fubo
1 Dracula II: Ascension (2003) – 0%
Dracula II: Ascension is the continuation of the story told in Dracula 2000. In this installment, Dracula’s corpse is shipped to New Orleans and ends up in the hands of medical student Elizabeth Blaine. Unknowingly pricking herself with one of the vampire’s fangs, Elizabeth unwittingly revives Dracula. An unusual connection forms between them as Elizabeth becomes entwined in his dark world. Simultaneously, Father Uffizi endeavors to grant absolution to Dracula, who was previously recognized as Judas Iscariot. However, the father will have to confront the monster himself during this process.
“No, God Gets Your Soul. I Just Want Your Head.”
The storyline of the movie is reportedly derived from an earlier proposal for “Dracula 2000,” in which the iconic vampire would have been the subject of research. Initially, Father Uffizi was a figure omitted from the initial production. However, the film drew harsh criticism for its excessive gore instead of instilling fear and underutilizing Dracula himself.
Stream on Max
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2024-07-14 23:02