The 2010s witnessed a resurgence in the popularity of vampire films, bringing fresh blood to a genre that has long captivated audiences. From comedies that highlight the everyday challenges of undead life to atmospheric dramas exploring the weight of immortality, this decade has proven that the allure of the vampire narrative is undying. Whether you’re drawn to tales of eternal love, the struggles of blending into modern society, or the classic horror elements associated with vampires, this selection is sure to have something to sink your teeth into. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best vampire films of the 2010s.
10. Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter – Timur Bekmambetov (2012)
In “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,” an alternative version of history unfolds, suggesting that vampires were the hidden force behind the southern states during the Civil War era. The film focuses Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, who secretly dedicates his life to eliminating these undead creatures after witnessing his mother’s death by a vampire. As he rises to power, Lincoln discovers that these vampires plan to take over the U.S., leading him to wage war against the Confederate states and another against the relentless bloodsuckers. His journey from a young man seeking vengeance to a leader facing a national crisis blends historical drama with gothic horror.
Timur Bekmambetov’s adaptation of Seth Grahame-Smith’s novel of the same name takes historical fiction to a new level. Bekmambetov’s direction gives the film a distinctive visual style that complements its inventive narrative. The film perfectly balances horror, action, and historical drama, creating a gripping narrative that captivates from start to finish. It masterfully combines the thrills of a vampire movie with the scope of a historical epic. With high-octane action sequences and a fresh twist on vampire lore, elevating it beyond conventional genre limitations and into a unique cinematic experience.
9. Dark Shadows – Tim Burton (2012)
“Dark Shadows” follows the life of Barnabas Collins, a wealthy playboy who breaks the heart of a witch named Angelique Bouchard. In a fit of jealousy, Angelique turns Barnabas into a vampire and buries him alive. This curse marks the beginning of a centuries-long slumber, removing Barnabas from the world he knows. He awakens in 1972, discovering that his once-thriving estate is in ruins and the current Collins family is in disarray, all while Angelique still seeks to torment him. Barnabas finds himself struggling to adapt to the radical changes of the new era. Despite his undead state, Barnabas still yearns for love and redemption, even as he navigates the chaotic world of the 1970s.
Directed by Tim Burton, “Dark Shadows” is a delightful blend of gothic horror and dark comedy. Drawing inspiration from the 1960s television series, the film showcases Burton’s signature quirky style and unique visual aesthetics. His vision brings the peculiar world of Barnabas Collins to life with a whimsical yet eerie flair. The star-studded cast, led by Johnny Depp, delivers a set of compelling performances, making “Dark Shadows” a must-watch for fans of both the vampire genre and Burton’s filmography. The soundtrack and period-accurate set design further immerse viewers in the era.
8. Stake Land – Jim Mickle (2010)
In a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a vampire epidemic, “Stake Land” follows the journey of a young boy named Martin and his mentor, a vampire hunter known simply as Mister. The duo traverses the devastated American landscape, seeking a rumored safe haven called New Eden. In this lawless new world, they encounter pockets of civilization fighting to reclaim a semblance of normal life. Along the way, they face not only bloodthirsty vampires but also dangerous religious cults and other human threats. As they forge new alliances and confront betrayals, the line between friend and foe becomes increasingly blurred.
Jim Mickle’s “Stake Land” offers a gritty, bleak take on the vampire apocalypse theme. His direction creates a tense and immersive atmosphere, immersing the viewer in the film’s dystopian world. The film’s focus on survival and human connections amidst chaos sets it apart from traditional vampire narratives, going beyond mere horror, exploring the psychological impacts of a world torn apart. Atmospheric cinematography and intense performances contribute to the movie’s suspenseful tone, making “Stake Land” an engaging and haunting experience. The film’s raw emotions and stark portrayal of humanity’s perseverance make it a powerful commentary on the human spirit.
7. Afflicted – Derek Lee, Clif Prowse (2013)
“Afflicted” introduces us to best friends Derek and Clif, who embark on a trip around the world. Their journey takes a terrifying turn when Derek has a mysterious encounter in Paris, which grants him superhuman abilities but also a deadly ailment. This sudden and inexplicable change turns their travel vlog into a chilling chronicle of transformation. As Derek’s condition worsens, the duo races against time to find a cure, documenting their harrowing experiences along the way. The line between gift and curse blurs, forcing them to question the price of power and the nature of their friendship, highlighting the profound impact of Derek’s affliction on their bond.
The creation of Derek Lee and Clif Prowse, “Afflicted” effortlessly combines the found footage genre with vampire mythology, creating a gripping narrative that blurs the lines between documentary and horror.. The film uses its format to create a sense of realism, immersing viewers in the protagonists’ desperate quest. With its innovative approach and intense pacing, “Afflicted” emerges as a refreshing take on vampire films, offering both thrills and an emotional core. The suspense is relentless, making the viewer question reality and the lengths to which one would go to save a loved one, making this one of the best vampire films of the 2010s.
6. Let Me In – Matt Reeves (2010)
In the film “Let Me In”, Owen, a lonely and bullied 12-year-old boy, befriends his mysterious neighbor Abby. As their bond deepens, Owen discovers that Abby is a vampire, forever trapped in a child’s body. This revelation forces Owen to confront the harsh realities of Abby’s existence. While she brings solace to Owen’s isolated life, her very nature also ushers in a series of chilling events that disrupt the community. Their relationship challenges traditional boundaries, highlighting a complex interaction between innocence and darkness, and raising questions about the cost of companionship under extraordinary circumstances..
Matt Reeves’ “Let Me In” is an American adaptation of the Swedish novel “Let the Right One In” and its subsequent film adaptation. The story’s chilling atmosphere and the relationship between the two leads make it a standout in the genre. The film gracefully balances horror elements with a touching story of friendship and acceptance. It explores the delicate line between human vulnerability and the monstrous, telling a tale of two young souls seeking solace in each other. Stellar cinematography and an eerie score amplify the film’s unsettling yet tender mood, driving home its themes of loneliness and the desire for connection.
5. Byzantium – Neil Jordan (2012)
In “Byzantium,” Clara and her daughter Eleanor lead a nomadic existence, constantly on the move to evade their mysterious past. They find solace in a coastal resort town, but as Eleanor reveals their secret life as vampires to a local boy, their sanctuary comes under threat. As memories of their origin emerge, they face persecution from both mortal and immortal entities determined to end their existence. The coastal setting adds a moody ambiance, enhancing the film’s gloomy atmosphere. Eleanor’s struggle for truth and acceptance becomes a central theme, challenging viewers’ perceptions of morality and family, and questioning the lengths one would go to protect those they love.
Neil Jordan’s “Byzantium” stands out as a unique entry in vampire cinema with its hauntingly beautiful visuals. It masterfully portrays a mother-daughter relationship struggling with the burdens of immortality. Their relationship, characterized by love and conflict, forms the emotional core of the film. The combination of gripping storytelling and captivating performances, particularly from Gemma Arterton and Saoirse Ronan, enhances the impact of this atmospheric film. Their portrayals add depth and complexity to their characters, making them both relatable and otherworldly. Jordan’s direction creates a compelling world where ancient legends confront modern realities, making this one of the best vampire films of the 2010s.
4. The Transfiguration – Michael O’Shea (2016)
In “The Transfiguration”, Milo, an isolated teenager with a dark obsession for vampire lore, meets the equally troubled Sophie. Their budding friendship offers a semblance of normalcy in their otherwise troublesome lives. However, Milo’s nocturnal habits and thirst for blood place both of them in grave danger, testing the bounds of their relationship and humanity. As Milo grapples with his disturbing impulses, Sophie becomes a beacon of hope in his bleak world. The streets of New York serve as a silent observer to Milo’s dark tendencies, and Sophie’s introduction brings a new layer of complexity to his world. As the plot unfolds, viewers are left questioning the boundaries of morality in a world filled with gray areas.
Michael O’Shea creates a deeply psychological narrative in “The Transfiguration,” combining elements of urban realism with classic horror. Instead of focusing on grandiose displays of vampirism, the film instead shows an intimate portrayal of its characters’ inner struggles. Milo’s journey is portrayed with a raw authenticity that challenges conventional vampire tropes. The nuanced performances and the slow-burn narrative approach make this a unique and thoughtful addition to vampire cinema. O’Shea manages to successfully contrast the allure of the supernatural with the gritty reality of urban life.
3. Only Lovers Left Alive – Jim Jarmusch (2013)
In “Only Lovers Left Alive”, a pair of centuries-old vampires, Adam and Eve, reunite in the desolate city of Detroit. Their reunion is a bittersweet reminder of the changes they’ve witnessed over the centuries, combining nostalgia with a sense of loss. Disillusioned with the modern world and its challenges, the couple contemplate their eternal existence while drawing comfort from each other’s company. Their peaceful retreat is interrupted when Eve’s reckless younger sister arrives, bringing chaos in her wake. Detroit, with its decaying beauty, acts as a silent character in the film, echoing the vampires’ own sense of timeless decay. The relationship dynamics, especially the intrusion of the younger sister, underscore the complexities of immortal relationships.
Jim Jarmusch’s exploration of love and eternity is mesmerizing in its approach. His direction gives the film a sense of otherworldly elegance, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and deeply personal. “Only Lovers Left Alive” captures the weariness and wisdom that come with immortal life. The film, starring Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston, combines wit with brooding reflection, making it a stylish and introspective take on the vampire genre. Its focus on character development sets it apart from more conventional vampire tales, and the soundtrack, infused with a mix of rock and ethereal tones, further accentuates the film’s melancholic vibe.
2. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night – Ana Lily Amirpour (2014)
“A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” is set in the ghostly Iranian town called Bad City, where residents are stalked by a lonesome vampire. The story focuses on the enigmatic vampire and her relationship with Arash, a young man grappling with his own set of troubles. As their paths cross, a unique bond forms between them in the town’s stark landscape filled with death and despair. Their relationship unfolds in a dance of curiosity and caution, reflecting the complexities of their individual struggles. Bad City becomes a character in itself, representing societal decay and lost souls. The silent interactions between the characters, filled with tension and desire, provide an insight into their isolated worlds.
Ana Lily Amirpour’s debut feature stands out as a genre-defying masterpiece. Her unique directorial style fills the narrative with a sense of otherworldliness and poetic grace. It beautifully merges Western motifs with a vampire tale, all set against the backdrop of Iranian culture. Shot in black and white, the film’s visuals are as powerful as its storyline, offering a fresh perspective on age-old vampire legends. Amirpour’s vision transcends cultural barriers, creating a story that is universally relatable while also creating tension and mystery, making this one of the best vampire films of the 2010s.
1. What We Do in the Shadows – Taika Waititi, Jemaine Clement (2014)
A comedic take on the vampire genre, “What We Do in the Shadows” is a mockumentary that follows the lives of four vampire roommates trying to cope with modern life in Wellington, New Zealand. From paying rent to navigating the club scene, these ancient vampires hilariously grapple with mundane challenges, all while a documentary crew captures their escapades. Their attempts to maintain a low profile are often thwarted by their antiquated ways and lack of understanding of modern society. Their interactions with humans and other supernatural entities, like werewolves, provide many comedic moments. The film’s blend of deadpan humor and supernatural lore creates a unique narrative that has garnered a huge following.
Co-directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, this film redefines the vampire genre with its brilliant humor and sharp wit. Their unique storytelling approach combines elements of horror and comedy in a way that’s both refreshing and entertaining. Drawing humor from the contrast of immortal beings in a contemporary setting, it remains an iconic comedic masterpiece. The film pokes fun at traditional vampire tropes while also paying homage to them, striking a perfect balance between satire and tribute. The characters, each with their own distinct personalities and quirks, bring a laugh-out-loud style of humor that has cemented “What We Do in the Shadows” place as one of the best vampire films of the 2010s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best vampire films of the 2010s:
- Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter – Timur Bekmambetov (2012)
- Dark Shadows – Tim Burton (2012)
- Stake Land – Jim Mickle (2010)
- Afflicted – Derek Lee, Clif Prowse (2013)
- Let Me In – Matt Reeves (2010)
- Byzantium – Neil Jordan (2012)
- The Transfiguration – Michael O’Shea (2016)
- Only Lovers Left Alive – Jim Jarmusch (2013)
- A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night – Ana Lily Amirpour (2014)
- What We Do in the Shadows – Taika Waititi, Jemaine Clement (2014)
