The 15 Best Vampire Movies Ever Made, Ranked

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For more than a century, vampires have captivated audiences in films by both terrifying and enticing them. Consequently, the mythology surrounding vampire movies is extensive. Over the years, they’ve been shown as enchanting seductresses, suave playboys, ancient bloodthirsty creatures, innocent youngsters, and everything else in between. The allure of vampires lies in their ability to seem human at first sight, making them capable of being whomever or whatever we imagine them to be.

The following list of vampire films spans a wide range, having been narrowed from our writer’s personal encounters with various types of vampire movies. Originating from diverse regions worldwide, these films span different eras and encompass varied themes. However, they share two key characteristics: They center on nocturnal beings with an insatiable thirst for blood, and are essential viewing for horror enthusiasts. Here you’ll find Looper’s top 15 picks of the greatest vampire movies ever produced.

15. Martin

As a gamer, I’ve always been fascinated by George A. Romero, the man behind the chilling zombie trilogy that started with “Night of the Living Dead” in 1968. However, among his masterpieces, it’s his lesser-known film, “Martin,” from 1977, that resonates most deeply with me. This movie tells the story of a young man who believes himself to be an elderly vampire, but the line between reality and obsession becomes blurred as we watch. Is Martin truly a creature of the night or just a troubled boy enthralled by vampire lore? That’s the question that keeps me hooked every time I revisit this film.

It’s clear that he’s both sexually troubled and potentially dangerous, yet his heartfelt confessions almost make us sympathize with him. Martin moves in with his distant cousin Tata Cuda (Lincoln Maazel) in a quiet Pennsylvania town. His abrasive cousin views him as a vampire, and Martin struggles to find any connection with those around him. In essence, “Martin” is a somber tale about a character who is equally pitiful and frightening.

Cast: John Amplas, Lincoln Maazel, Christine Forrest

Director: George A. Romero

Year: 1977

Rating: R

Runtime: 95 minutes

Where to watch: Tubi

Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%

14. Vampyr

In the 1930s, the release of “Vampyr” was seen as a low point in the esteemed career of Danish director Carl-Theodor Dreyer, renowned for his work on “The Passion of Joan of Arc.” Based on Sheridan Le Fanu’s short story collection “In a Glass Darkly,” this film follows Julian West’s character, Allan Gray, as he journeys to Courtempierre, France in search of vampires. Upon his arrival at an inn, he encounters an old man (Maurice Schutz) who leaves behind a package with instructions for it to be opened upon his death. As the story unfolds, Allan follows eerie shadows to discover the eldest daughter (Sybille Schmitz) of the man is plagued by an unexplained affliction.

The film ‘Vampyr’ shares many characteristics with Dracula and his kin, featuring a woman with a puzzling bite, vampires, their minions, and so forth. However, it possesses an innovative style that sets it apart and makes it intriguing and original. With captivating special effects, particularly the shadows that preoccupy Gray’s thoughts, this is an engaging viewing experience for aficionados of vampire films.

Cast: Julian West, Maurice Schutz, Rena Mandel

Director: Carl-Theodor Dreyer

Year: 1932

Rating: Not rated

Runtime: 73 minutes

Where to watch: Max, Philo, PLEX

Rotten Tomatoes score: 98%

13. The Hunger

The film ‘The Hunger’ centers around three principal characters: Dr. Sarah Roberts (portrayed by Susan Sarandon), a scientist studying premature aging; Miriam Blaylock (played by Catherine Deneuve), a centuries-old vampire from ancient Egypt; and her partner, John (David Bowie), a cellist hailing from the 18th century. One day, John experiences rapid aging after 200 years with Miriam, prompting him to seek out Sarah for a possible cure. However, Sarah is skeptical of his tale and John departs disheartened. In her pursuit of John, Sarah encounters Miriam instead, leading them to embark on a romantic relationship as Miriam endeavors to teach Sarah the secrets of vampirism.

Initially met with a mix of opinions from critics, watching “The Hunger” back then was an experience. Yet, in the ensuing years, it transformed into a cult classic, largely due to its chilling aesthetic that any vampire enthusiast would appreciate wholeheartedly. This film has an undeniable timeless charm about it – dimly lit rooms, bluesy hues, and occasional splashes of crimson blood. Some might say it’s more about style than substance, but let me tell you, this style never fails to impress!

Cast: Catherine Deneuve, David Bowie, Susan Sarandon

Director: Tony Scott

Year: 1983

Rating: R

Runtime: 97 minutes

Where to watch: Buy or rent on major platforms

Rotten Tomatoes score: 58%

12. The Lost Boys

The Lost Boys” is packed with elements that make for an outstanding vampire tale. It boasts an attractive cast, witty dialogue, and a shocking finale. The story revolves around Michael (Jason Patric) and Sam (Corey Haim), who along with their mother, relocate to a coastal town shrouded in mystery. As the younger brother Sam bonds with the Frog brothers, Edgar (Corey Feldman) and Alan (Jamison Newlander), who pretend to be vampire hunters, Michael becomes entangled with a group of men wearing leather through his fascination with the captivating Star (Jami Gertz).

As time went on, my two brothers and I discovered that Santa Clara was teeming with active vampires, and unfortunately, Michael started getting drawn into their clutches. This captivating movie, brimming with standout acting and oozing ’80s style, significantly altered the image of bloodsuckers in the media: “The Lost Boys” sparked a new generation of vampire mythos and left an indelible mark on the genre, turning hot vampires into the norm rather than the traditional old ghasts.

Cast: Jason Patric, Kiefer Sutherland, Corey Haim

Director: Joel Schumacher

Year: 1987

Rating: R

Runtime: 97 minutes

Where to watch: Roku Channel

Rotten Tomatoes score: 75%

11. Bram Stoker’s Dracula

In the iconic movie adaptation of Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” directed by Francis Ford Coppola, there’s a significant twist: Mina, played by Winona Ryder and Jonathan Harker’s (Keanu Reeves) fiancée, bears an uncanny resemblance to Dracula’s deceased wife Elisabeta from the 15th century. This alteration in the story creates a unique narrative, as unlike the original novel, this version has Mina drawn to the vampire, despite her initial disgust.

Beyond that, the movie remarkably stays true to the narrative where Count Dracula ventures into London and preys upon Lucy (Sadie Frost), a friend of Mina. This inevitably triggers the arrival of Abraham Van Helsing (Anthony Hopkins), an authority on vampires. Every aspect of this production is grand, with some critics arguing it’s excessive. However, if you manage to sync with its rhythm, you’re in for a captivating spin on this timeless story.

Cast: Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins

Director: Francis Ford Coppola

Year: 1992

Rating: R

Runtime: 128 minutes

Where to watch: Buy or rent on major platforms

Rotten Tomatoes score: 69%

10. Thirst

Director Park Chan-wook offers his interpretation of the supernatural creatures known as vampires in this film, introducing an innovative spin on their folklore. Notably, this adaptation – inspired by Émile Zola’s novel ‘Thérèse Raquin’, loosely speaking – follows the story of Sang-hyun (played by Song Kang-ho), a revered priest who attends to the sick at the local hospital. He participates in a study aimed at discovering a cure for a lethal virus, but the treatment fails, leaving him ill. Unlike the other participants, however, Sang-hyun doesn’t perish; instead, he receives a blood transfusion and recovers. The townspeople view this as a miracle, unaware that their beloved priest is transforming into a vampire.

In the story, Sang-hyun starts joining his old friend Kang-woo (Shin Ha-Kyun)’s game nights and develops feelings for Kang-woo’s wife, Tae-ju (Kim Ok-vin). As their affair blossoms, Sang-hyun grapples with a loss of faith and an unexpected twist in his life: he becomes a vampire. This narrative is intricate as not only does Sang-hyun face challenges from the supernatural world, but Tae-ju, Kang-woo, and Kang-woo’s mother Mrs. Ra (Kim Hae-sook) each possess their unique motivations and desires. Although filled with horror elements such as blood and gore, this film is more than just a vampire movie – it delves into a forbidden love affair that spirals out of control.

Cast: Song Kang-ho, Kim Ok-vin, Kim Hae-sook

Director: Park Chan-wook

Year: 2009

Rating: R

Runtime: 134 minutes

Where to watch: Buy or rent on major platforms

Rotten Tomatoes score: 81%

9. Only Lovers Left Alive

Jim Jarmusch has delved into numerous peculiar characters throughout his career, yet none as distinctly as the vampires portrayed in “Only Lovers Left Alive.” To encapsulate this film, one could say it’s quintessentially Jarmuschian – it’s more akin to a contemplative verse than a traditional narrative. The story revolves around Eve (played by Tilda Swinton), a vampire, who sets out to save her long-time partner, Adam (Tom Hiddleston), from his melancholy. Spanning centuries, their love persists, despite their differences. However, the arrival of Ava (Mia Wasikowska), Eve’s impetuous sister, tests their bond and compels them to navigate through the tumultuous times together.

In an unusual narrative, “Only Lovers Left Alive” presents the story of two lovers who appear to be polar opposites, yet their affection endures despite their stark differences. This intriguing premise (accompanied by a fantastic soundtrack showcasing diverse music genres, reflecting Adam’s extensive musical tastes) makes for a leisurely but rewarding viewing experience. If you appreciate a more artistic take on vampire films, this is definitely worth your time.

Cast: Tilda Swinton, Tom Hiddleston, Mia Wasikowska

Director: Jim Jarmusch

Year: 2013

Rating: R

Runtime: 123 minutes

Where to watch: Tubi

Rotten Tomatoes score: 86%

8. Cronos

In the horror masterpiece “Cronos,” directed by Guillermo del Toro, we find a mysterious artifact offering eternal life. This inventive creation was crafted in 1536 by an alchemist and stumbled upon by an antique dealer named Jesus Gris (Federico Luppi) in 1996. Upon activation, the object latches onto his hand and injects a needle. Gris experiences a revitalization; his energy surges, his wrinkles vanish, and he enjoys a fresh start on life—yet this rejuvenation comes with an insatiable hunger for blood. As his appetite for blood increases, so does the interest of others who covet the device for their own purposes.

This movie offers a unique perspective on the lore of vampires and introduces an innovative protagonist. The intriguing duo of Jesus and his granddaughter Aurora (Tamara Shanath) adds a deeply compassionate twist to the story, a dimension that is rarely explored. Del Toro’s collaboration with vampires, as demonstrated in “Cronos,” is a perfect union, leaving no room for doubt.

Cast: Federico Luppi, Ron Perlman, Claudio Brook

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Year: 1992

Rating: R

Runtime: 94 minutes

Where to watch: Max

Rotten Tomatoes score: 88%

7. Near Dark

Katherine Bigelow’s movie “Near Dark” follows the story of Caleb Colton (Adrian Pasdar), a resident from a peaceful Oklahoma town, who finds himself entangled with a mysterious girl named Mae (Jenny Wright). However, Mae has a secret – she is a vampire. Along with her band of roaming bloodsuckers, they travel the country and cause havoc. When Caleb discovers Mae’s true nature, he becomes a reluctant part of their group, as they demand that he learn to hunt and kill within a week. But Caleb resists this violent lifestyle, leading Mae to take on the task of safeguarding him instead.

In ‘Near Dark’, you get a thrilling blend of a bloodthirsty vampire tale and a gripping Western narrative. Bill Paxton’s portrayal of Severen, the bloodthirsty yet seductive vampire, stands out among the group. The film offers a gory spectacle, boasting stunning visuals and a tender teenage romance that, together with ‘The Lost Boys’ (released in the same year), redefined the concept of vampires by offering a unique perspective.

Cast: Adrian Pasdar, Bill Paxton, Lance Henriksen

Director: Katherine Bigelow

Year: 1987

Rating: R

Runtime: 1h 34m

Where to watch: Shudder

Rotten Tomatoes score: 83%

6. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night

In the movie titled “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night,” the setting, an Iranian ghost town known as Bad City, adds a unique twist to its title’s meaning. The girl character, played by Sheila Vand, is not portrayed as weak but rather powerful and strong, given that she’s a vampire. The narrative revolves primarily around her interactions with Arash (Arash Marandi), a character grappling with debts and the care of his drug-addict father. In this story, the girl’s strength is not just physical; it’s also in her resilience against any man she encounters.

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” is a unique, haunting movie that combines elements of feminist art house horror and offers a thought-provoking experience even after the end. This Persian-language film boldly tackles themes of female empowerment and sexuality in ways seldom seen before, elevating it not just as an excellent vampire story, but also as an essential one.

Cast: Sheila Vand, Arash Marandi, Marshall Manesh

Director: Ana Lily Amirpour

Year: 2014

Rating: Not rated

Runtime: 101 minutes

Where to watch: Kino Film Collection

Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%

5. What We Do In the Shadows

What We Do In the Shadows” stands out among this collection not just for its creative spin on vampire folklore, but due to its unique blend of comedy and mockumentary style focusing on these bloodsucking creatures. Although common vampire elements like drinking blood and transforming into bats are present, there’s also an emphasis on everyday scenarios like struggling to enter a club or tracking down old flames online. Essentially, the narrative revolves around a cluster of flatmates who are vampires residing in Wellington, New Zealand, living their ordinary lives.

This amusing and innovative film showcased Taika Waititi’s talent before he gained widespread fame by directing Marvel’s “Thor: Ragnarok.” It also paved the way for the equally entertaining American TV adaptation. Although the mockumentary style had been used before, “What We Do In the Shadows” stood out with its unique genre fusion.

Cast: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi, Jonathan Brugh

Director: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waitiiti

Year: 2014

Rating: R

Runtime: 86 minutes

Where to watch: Buy or rent on major platforms

Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%

4. Sinners

Ryan Coogler’s film “Sinners,” set in 1932, features Michael B. Jordan playing twin brothers, Smoke and Stack, who come back to their Mississippi hometown after earning money working for Al Capone in Chicago. They establish a juke joint that becomes the local hangout, and on its opening night, their cousin Sammie (Miles Caton) astonishes everyone with his guitar skills. The music is captivating, drawing in a group of three white vampires who seek entrance to the club. As people start turning into vampires upon going outside, one of the twins, Smoke, teams up with others to defend against them.

Under a different director’s guidance, the blend of music and supernatural terror might crumble, but Coogler masterfully brings his vision to life. “Sinners,” an extraordinary endeavor for Coogler, is a captivating fairy tale with a potent edge.

Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Miles Caton, Hailee Steinfeld

Director: Ryan Coogler

Year: 2025

Rating: R

Runtime: 137 minutes

Where to watch: Buy or rent on major platforms

Rotten Tomatoes score: 97%

3. Nosferatu

One of the earliest and most well-known examples of a vampire movie is “Nosferatu,” which was based on Bram Stoker’s novel “Dracula,” although some details were altered. Despite these changes, Stoker’s widow still sued for copyright infringement, and many copies of the film were destroyed. However, some survived, and today, over a century later, “Nosferatu” is recognized as one of the most impactful horror films in history.

As a devoted enthusiast, I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in the captivating saga titled “Nosferatu.” This tale unfolds from the perspective of Thomas Hutter (Gustav von Wangenheim), who embarks on an unforgettable journey accompanied by his wife Ellen (Greta Schröder). Along the way, they cross paths with the enigmatic Count Orlok (Max Schreck), a Transylvanian aristocrat whose peculiar thirst for blood gradually reveals itself.

While this narrative may resonate with those who have delved into Bram Stoker’s literary masterpiece or savored film adaptations of “Dracula,” F.W. Murnau’s masterful cinematic craftsmanship, particularly his innovative manipulation of light and shadow, elevates this chilling production to an unparalleled level that no true aficionado of the undead should miss experiencing at least once.

Cast: Max Schreck, Gustav von Wangenheim, Greta Schröder

Director: F.W. Murnau

Year: 1922

Rating: Not rated

Runtime: 81 minutes

Where to watch: Prime Video, The Roku Channel, Tubi, Sling TV, Crackle, Fandango at Home, PLEX

Rotten Tomatoes score: 97%

2. Let the Right One In

In the Swedish film “Let the Right One In,” a 12-year-old boy named Oskar (Kåre Hedebrant), who is often bullied, encounters Eli (Lina Leandersson), who appears to be around his age but is in reality much older. The twist is that Eli is a vampire and relies on blood for sustenance. Initially resistant, Oskar and Eli develop an unlikely friendship, characterized by the innocence and sensitivity typical of someone at Oskar’s age. While they are capable of committing grim acts, they retain the fragility and solitude inherent in lonely individuals. The film masterfully portrays these children from various perspectives.

Experience the captivating tale of “Let the Right One In”, an independent vampire film that every horror enthusiast should watch. This unique production delves into a complex relationship, yet maintains the intense violence and chaos characteristic of the genre. The story presents characters who intrigue and unsettle us in equal measure, all while showcasing stunning, snow-drenched cinematography to evoke an eerie atmosphere.

Cast: Kåre Hedebrant, Lina Leandersson, Per Ragnar

Director: Tomas Alfredson

Year: 2008

Rating: R

Runtime: 114 minutes

Where to watch: Prime Video, Tubi, Fandango at Home, Pluto TV, Xumo Play

Rotten Tomatoes score: 98%

1. Dracula

Among all vampire movies ever made, F.W. Murnau’s “Nosferatu” was the pioneer, but the 1931 film adaptation of Bram Stoker’s novel, “Dracula,” remains our top pick. Bela Lugosi delivers an exceptional portrayal as the captivating Count Dracula. He arrives in England with intentions to seize Carfax Abbey, where he crosses paths with Lucy (Frances Dade), Mina (Helen Chandler), and her fiancé, John Harker (David Manners). As Lucy falls ill and Mina shows symptoms of a mysterious sickness, Professor Van Helsing (Edward Van Sloan) is summoned to combat the vampire.

Influence from both the original “Dracula” film and Bela Lugosi, who played the iconic role, has significantly shaped subsequent vampire movies. Lugosi’s portrayal of Dracula was both captivatingly mesmerizing and terrifyingly monstrous, turning the vampire’s bite into an image of eroticism that remains powerful to this day. The “Dracula” film from 1931 marked the beginning of these enduring themes, making it a groundbreaking and influential movie in the genre.

Cast: Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler, David Manners

Director: Tod Browning

Year: 1931

Rating: Not rated

Runtime: 74 minutes

Where to watch: Buy or rent on major platforms

Rotten Tomatoes score: 94%

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2025-07-14 13:32