32 Best Vampire Movies And TV Shows You NEED To Watch

For more than a hundred years, tales about vampires have been popular, featuring different representations of the undead bloodsuckers across various forms of media. Ranging from amusing to terrifying or a delightful mix of both, vampire stories are hard to resist. If you’re interested in spending time with these night-dwelling beings, take a look at this compilation of top vampire movies and TV series! (Regrettably, Twilight fans, your favorite series didn’t make it onto the list.)

The Lost Boys (1987)

Among the greatest ’80s films is the timeless classic, “The Lost Boys,” which first introduced us to David (Kiefer Sutherland), the charismatic vampire version of Peter Pan. Director Joel Schumacher skillfully blended horror and comedy in this film, making vampires both fearsome and appealing – a combination that has been echoed in many subsequent adaptations. Moreover, it boasts one of the most memorable and powerful endings a movie has ever delivered.

True Blood (2008 – 2014)

Revisiting Charlaine Harris’ novels featuring Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin), HBO’s smash hit, True Blood, remains a subject of ongoing discussion among fans. Throughout its seven-season run, the town of Bon Temps was filled with passionate romances, witty humor, and chilling fear brought on by werewolves, fairies, and witches. However, the core essence of this series has always been the social critique presented in a world where vampires are openly recognized…and often mistreated.

Interview With The Vampire (1994)

Despite Tom Cruise’s versatility, it’s regrettable that he didn’t get another shot at reprising his role as Lestat de Lioncourt. In the 1994 film adaptation of “Interview with the Vampire,” Brad Pitt portrayed Louis de Pointe du Lac while Cruise brought a chaotic edge to the sadistic Lestat, creating a striking contrast that’s captivating to behold. Additionally, Kirsten Dunst delivers an outstanding breakout performance as Claudia, adding depth to this unsettling vampire family.

Fright Night (1985)

Charley Brewster, played by William Ragsdale, was your typical 80’s high school student, but his ordinary life took a turn when Jerry Dandridge, portrayed by Chris Sarandon, moved into the neighborhood. In Tom Holland’s iconic vampire film, we witness the chaotic encounter between an unsuspecting teenager and a captivating yet menacing supernatural entity. The movie doesn’t hold back on either the blood or the humor as Charley faces this challenge.

What We Do In The Shadows (2019 – 2024)

The adaptation of FX’s “What We Do in the Shadows” leaves me yearning for more than just six seasons. Transforming Taika Waititi’s 2014 mockumentary into an expansive lunatic universe centered around Long Island’s unique bloodline of vampires (and Harvey Guillén’s character, Guillermo), has been one of those extraordinary instances where the television adaptation surpassed its cinematic precursor. From its humble beginnings to the flawless series finale of “What We Do in the Shadows,” the show was a continual source of laughter and joy.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

2024’s version of “Nosferatu” aimed to breathe new life into F.W. Murnau’s timeless masterpiece, while 1992’s “Bram Stoker’s Dracula” offered a fresh take on the age-old tale for fans. In this rendition by Francis Ford Coppola, Gary Oldman skillfully portrays Dracula as both a pitiable romantic figure and a formidable enemy.

Dark Shadows (1991)

In 1991, NBC attempted to give the traditional ABC soap opera “Dark Shadows” a darker, brooding twist with its revival. Actor Ben Cross took on the famous role of Barnabas Collins in this adaptation, which was quite different from the 2012 Tim Burton film version that transformed the story’s gothic elements into a comedic spectacle. Unfortunately for NBC, this serious reinterpretation met an early end after only one season.

Shadow Of The Vampire (2000)

Prior to Willem Dafoe’s portrayal as a human in Robert Eggers’ “Nosferatu,” he had already delved into the role of the enigmatic vampire in the unconventional remake of “Dracula” titled “Shadow of the Vampire.” This dark comedy, starring John Malkovich as F.W. Murnau, suggests that Dafoe’s character, Max Schreck, was both a real-life vampire and a demanding film star, depicting the supposed true events surrounding the production of Murnau’s horror classic.

Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1997 – 2003)

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that Joss Whedon’s horror/comedy cult classic, initially a movie, morphed into an engrossing seven-season TV series. Sarah Michelle Gellar breathed life into a more realistic version of Buffy the Vampire Slayer in this new iteration. The shift wasn’t just about tone; it also brought about enhancements. Some of the most captivating episodes dared to push boundaries with innovative storytelling and introduced us to remarkable guest stars like John Ritter and a then-unknown Pedro Pascal. It was more than just a heartbreaker, thanks to its poignant deaths and romances that transcended the realm of the undead.

Nosferatu (2024)

Robert Eggers showcases a contemporary expertise in horror, drawing upon traditional techniques. His 2024 reinterpretation of the timeless film “Nosferatu” serves to underscore this aptitude, offering a fresh perspective on F. W. Murneau’s original masterpiece. Although Bill Skarsgard’s grotesque latex portrayal and Count Orlock’s imposing appearance are striking, the mysterious and captivating love story between him (Count Orlock) and Ellen (played by Lily-Rose Depp) is equally chilling and intriguing.

The Strain (2014 – 2017)

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but share my excitement for “The Strain” trilogy, a chilling horror saga co-written by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan. This captivating tale of vampires and the apocalypse quickly became a literary sensation. When it came time to bring this gripping story to life on TV, FX didn’t hold back, delivering a four-season odyssey that took us from the very origins of this catastrophic event. The series was rich in vampire lore, while skillfully crafting intriguing characters on both sides of the conflict. Even Stephen King, the master of horror himself, couldn’t help but appreciate one of his favorite TV monster hunters that graced our screens!

From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)

It’s unfortunate when the surprising twist in Robert Rodriguez’s film From Dusk Till Dawn has to be revealed because of situations like this. Initially, it appears to be a crime thriller with the Gecko Brothers, played by George Clooney and Quentin Tarantino, kidnapping a family as a disguise for their journey to Mexico. However, as the story unfolds, it transforms into something far more lethal – something that, if you’re familiar with the movie or this list, you can easily guess what it is. (Without giving it away, I’ll say it’s not vampires, but it’s a common enough element of this film that those in the know will catch on quickly.)

Midnight Mass (2021)

In the Netflix miniseries Midnight Mass, filmmaker Mike Flanagan crafted a chilling blend of fear and empathy. Essentially, this narrative can be summed up as “evolution.” The enigmatic Father Paul Hill (Hamish Linklater) makes his appearance on Crockett Island at a crucial moment, when strange events begin to unfold. Be prepared for moments that will scare you, but also don’t be shocked if you find yourself shedding tears now and then.

Let The Right One In (2008)

In a different phrasing: The film “Let The Right One In” is, at first glance, a chilling vampire story. However, as Oskar (Kåre Hedebrant), a solitary victim of bullying, forms a bond with Eli (Lina Leandersson), their relationship unfolds into an unforeseen chain of mortality. Beneath the eerie veneer of author John Ajvide Lindqvist’s screenplay, based on his own novel, lies a delicate blend of unsettling and melancholic undertones.

Angel (1999 – 2004)

As a devoted fan, I seldom encounter a spin-off series that matches the intensity of its original counterpart, but “Angel” was an exception to this rule. Starring David Boreanaz, this captivating offshoot from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” managed to hold its own and even surpassed its viewership in later seasons. Despite being abruptly cut short after Season 5, it’s worth noting that the show experienced a significant surge in audience. If you’re up for an intriguing noir-influenced journey through Los Angeles, this is just the series to immerse yourself in, albeit with a somewhat premature conclusion.

Van Helsing (2004)

If you’ve achieved success with two “Mummy” films starring Brendan Fraser, and you’re director Stephen Sommers, you might decide to explore the rest of the Universal Monsters universe in one grand move, like with the film “Van Helsing”. In this case, Hugh Jackman takes on a version of the main character, the legendary vampire hunter. This movie is filled with various monstrous creatures for him to handle, creating an action-packed and humorous adventure that’s reminiscent of “The Mummy”.

Castlevania (2017 – 2021)

As a dedicated cinephile, I must admit that Netflix’s take on Konami’s classic video game “Castlevania” was more intense than necessary. However, they managed to capture the eerie religious undertones and gory imagery with such precision, it felt like Dracula himself had risen from the grave in Romania, intent on unleashing a reign of terror. This outstanding adaptation is not just a faithful video game rendition, but also an exceptional animated series. The legacy lives on as we eagerly anticipate the next installment, “Castlevania: Nocturne.

The Last Voyage Of The Demeter (2023)

After many years, The Last Voyage of the Demeter was brought to life, based on the part of Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula where the terrifying vampire embarks on his journey to England. This horror series, featuring an impressive ensemble cast, builds tension slowly and beautifully, akin to a nightmare drawn richly by director André Øvredal. Initially, it may not have been well-received, but now, it offers a hidden gem for viewers seeking something underappreciated.

The Munsters (1964 – 1966)

Absolutely! In my view, “The Munsters” can definitely be considered a vampire-themed show, given that Lily (Yvonne DeCarlo) and Grandpa (Al Lewis) are the bloodsucking members of the family. Alongside the bumbling Herman (Fred Gwynne), they created an unforgettable blend of humor in this classic TV sitcom. It’s fascinating to consider that, amidst the arrival of “The Addams Family” and “Batman,” television executives somehow felt there wasn’t enough space for this unique portrayal of monstrous day-to-day life.

Blade II (2002)

One could potentially view the first two “Blade” films as identical if listed together. However, such a perception would be incorrect. Although Wesley Snipes’ origin story in the Marvel Comics universe is compelling, it’s “Blade II” that truly showcases his talent. Director Guillermo del Toro had an opportunity to experiment with his vampires for “The Strain” through the design of the Reapers, and also provided intriguing interactions between Snipes and Ron Perlman, which added even more thrilling moments to the action.

Being Human (2008 – 2013)

Have I ever wondered if a ghost, a vampire, and a werewolf could genuinely coexist? It might seem like the premise for a humorous tale, but the BBC series “Being Human” delved into and addressed this very question over the course of five seasons. The character of John Mitchell (portrayed by Aidan Turner) originally filled the vampire role, with Hal Yorke (played by Damien Molony) taking over later on. This intriguing show, created by Toby Whitehouse, was even remade in the United States, maintaining the integrity of its original concept despite any casting changes from its source material.

Abigail (2024)

In the film “Abigail“, Radio Silence combines humor and terror, adding a touch of fangs to the mix. A group of inexperienced kidnappers find themselves in over their heads when they’re tasked with abducting a 12-year-old girl (played by Alisha Weir). However, things quickly take a turn as this seemingly older than she looks antagonist goes after her potential captors instead. If you’re a fan of Kevin Durand’s vampire performances, particularly from “The Strain“, then you might want to check out this movie.

Rosario + Vampire (2008)

Vampires can be adorable when portrayed appropriately, and the two-season anime adaptation of the manga “Rosario + Vampire” is an excellent example. This series revolves around Tsukune Aono, a young man who unintentionally ends up attending a school for monsters. Fortunately, Moka Akashiya, a charming vampire girl, assists him in getting by at this unusual institution, as she not only displays friendliness but also harbors affection for our protagonist.

Vampires Vs. The Bronx (2020)

One excellent way for fans of vampires to enjoy the delightful blend of horror and comedy in the movie “Vampires vs. The Bronx” is because it creatively employs gentrification as a symbol of a vampire invasion, making it quite insightful. Moreover, this contemporary film pays tribute to the classic character “Blade,” played by Wesley Snipes, elevating it to a revered piece of vampire literature. If you’re a fan of Snipes’ portrayal of the Daywalker, this Netflix original could be an appealing choice for you.

Anne Rice’s Interview With The Vampire (2022 – )

In the mid-’90s, there was a significant amount of underlying queer themes in the movie adaptation of Anne Rice’s “Interview with the Vampire” that weren’t fully explored. However, when AMC acquired the rights to remake the entire book series, the new characters Louis (Jacob Anderson) and Lestat (Sam Reid) were given the opportunity to delve deeper into the well-known aspects of these vampire counterparts, reflecting what fans had already understood about them.

Fright Night (2011)

As a movie critic, I can’t help but marvel at the rare instances when a remake manages to carve its own identity while still paying homage to its roots. The 2011 reimagining of “Fright Night” serves as an excellent example of this artistic balancing act, particularly in the portrayal of the enigmatic vampire Jerry Dandridge.

Colin Farrell breathes life into a character that’s been transformed from romantic melancholy to full-blown sociopathic dude bro, creating a chilling contrast with Anton Yelchin’s Charlie Brewster. Moreover, David Tennant’s Peter Vincent, who channels the mystique of mid-2000s illusionist Criss Angel, adds another layer of adult-oriented appeal to this movie’s impressive roster of characters.

The Vampire Diaries (2009 – 2017)

Blending some elements of “Twilight”, a hint of “Supernatural”, and a generous serving of “Dracula”, you create the recipe for The CW’s popular series, “The Vampire Diaries”. With two spin-offs and an abundance of captivating charm from actors like Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev, this show truly embodies the essence of what The CW was famous for during its prime.

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation (2018)

As a film enthusiast, I firmly believe that every kid should be introduced to the captivating world of vampires at some point. In my opinion, the Hotel Transylvania series is an excellent starting point for youngsters to get acquainted with these nocturnal creatures. However, if you’re aiming for a side-splitting good time, I highly recommend watching Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation. This hilarious film finds our lonely widower Drac (Adam Sandler) butting heads with his potential love interest, Ericka (Kathryn Hahn), who just so happens to be a descendant of the legendary vampire hunter, Van Helsing (Jim Gaffigan).

American Horror Story: Hotel (2015 – 2016)

In the fifth series of Ryan Murphy’s “American Horror Story,” two highly popular elements were skillfully blended: the eerie murder hotels and their mysterious managers. The narrative unfolded like a tangled web of chaos, mystery, and gore under the enchanting control of the seductive Countess (portrayed by Lady Gaga). As you might anticipate from FX’s enduring terror classic, the storyline became as twisted and intensely steamy as usual.

Jesus Christ: Vampire Hunter

The movie titled “Jesus Christ Vampire Hunter” is not meant to be taken seriously, unless you’re the type who takes light-hearted, low-budget musical horror comedies very seriously. If that’s the case, then go ahead. Directed by Lee Demarbre and written by Ian Driscoll, this film is so absurdly funny that no summary could do it justice. You’ll just have to trust your instincts and maybe even a higher power on this one.

NOS4A2 (2019 – 2020)

Joe Hill’s novel NOS4A2 is a captivating masterpiece that Stephen King likely takes great pride in, as it shares many horror sensibilities with its author’s father. In this tale, the vampire Charlie Manx, portrayed by Zachary Quinto, preys on children to maintain his immortality, using a malevolently sweet Christmas village for his sinister deeds. However, the balance of power is somewhat shifted when a seemingly psychic woman starts tracking him down (Ashleigh Cummings), making their confrontation a two-season battle of wits.

Vamp (1986)

If you’re planning a night out, it’s crucial to know your destination. Unfortunately, the main characters in the 1986 film “Vamp” didn’t heed this advice, which led them straight to a nightclub where they encountered the mysterious Katrina, played by Grace Jones. What ensued was a fateful night filled with mishaps, as this horror-comedy in the vein of “After Hours” didn’t show any mercy to our heroes.

2025-01-16 18:39