With the release of Dracula, a new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic novel by Luc Besson, we take a moment to look back at our 12 favorite vampire films.
12) What We Do in the Shadows
Undoubtedly the best film from Taika Waititi, What We Do in the Shadows released in 2014, offers a quirky and humorous take on vampire mythology. This faux documentary immerses viewers in the lives of a family of vampires living in suburban Limoges, delivering a comedic exploration of cultural and temporal collisions that breaks conventional vampire film norms.
11) Blade II
Following a strong debut directed by Stephen Norrington, Guillermo Del Toro takes the helm for a sequel that elevates the franchise. Blade II blends a pop aesthetic with gothic themes, showcasing a striking performance from Wesley Snipes alongside Ron Perlman. This film pushes boundaries, offering a radical and eccentric superhero narrative designed for a mature audience.
10) A Humanist Vampire Seeking Suicidal Consent
This Canadian film, released in 2023, offers a unique approach unlike anything else on this list. A Humanist Vampire Seeking Suicidal Consent is an introspective exploration of solitude and depression, filled with appealing sensitivity and corrosive dark humor. This poetic film balances fantasy and existential therapy, painting a vivid picture of a modern society yearning for love.
9) Sinners
Released earlier this year, Sinners is a surprise hit of 2025, directed by Ryan Coogler. A thrilling modern homage to From Dusk Till Dawn, Sinners showcases an impeccable dual performance by Michael B. Jordan. This engaging, fast-paced film is visually stunning and pays a poignant tribute to the blues, offering a vibrant cinematic experience.
8) The Fearless Vampire Killers
Travel back to 1968 with Roman Polanski’s The Fearless Vampire Killers, one of the earliest horror comedies. This eccentric comedy cleverly intertwines horror elements with pure humor, creating a fast-paced narrative that never loses momentum. With its frenetic pace and cartoonish charm, Polanski’s film delightfully subverts the tropes of Dracula.
7) Fright Night
Released in 1985 and directed by Tom Holland, Fright Night offers a delightful blend of horror and dark comedy. With the clever premise of “what if your neighbor is a vampire?”, this film engages in classic vampire tropes while delivering impressive special effects and moments of joyfully excessive violence. It’s a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s, noted for its retro aesthetic and humor. A sequel was released in 1988, followed by a notable remake in 2011 featuring Colin Farrell.
6) Interview with the Vampire
In 1994, director Neil Jordan brought together two cinematic titans, Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise, in Interview with the Vampire. This enchanting gothic tale examines the sexual dimensions of vampirism, set against a backdrop of darkness and sensuality. Through Brad Pitt’s character, the film explores themes of morality and desire in a world where immortality can become tedious.
5) From Dusk Till Dawn
From Dusk Till Dawn is a muscular tour de force, epitomizing the collaboration between directors Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino. Released in 1996, the film artfully blends its first act of clever dialogue and violence with a wildly eccentric second act. This hybrid film embraces both directors’ unique styles, delivering unforgettable moments and performances, particularly George Clooney’s magnetic presence and Salma Hayek’s iconic dance scene.
4) Nosferatu
Nosferatu tells the same story as Dracula, yet without the title. Directed by F.W. Murnau in 1922, this film sought to adapt the Dracula tale without securing rights. The result is a stunningly atmospheric masterpiece. Murnau imbues his character with an iconic, chilling presence and the film remains remarkably modern. Its striking imagery and profound artistry immortalize Murnau’s talent for crafting visual compositions that resonate with audiences even today.
3) Dracula
Among the many adaptations of Dracula, the one directed by Francis Ford Coppola in 1992 stands out as a definitive classic. Featuring an exceptional cast including Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins, and Keanu Reeves, Coppola’s version captures the novel’s gothic and romantic essence. The film boasts remarkable cinematography and presents a lavish, baroque interpretation that remains faithful to Stoker’s original work.
2) The Hunger
Directed by the late Tony Scott, The Hunger released in 1983 is perhaps his most iconic film. This stylish, gothic narrative stars Catherine Deneuve, Susan Sarandon, and David Bowie, encapsulating the vampire mythos with its romantic and baroque sensibilities. The film’s aesthetic, marked by stylish visuals, creates an atmosphere of slow decadence, showcasing Bowie in one of his finest roles as a depressed vampire trapped in a cycle of desire and solitude.
1) Only Lovers Left Alive
In 2013, acclaimed director Jim Jarmusch drew inspiration from The Hunger to create Only Lovers Left Alive. Featuring the talented duo of Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton, this film offers a stunning portrayal of a disillusioned, melancholic world through the lens of immortal vampires. The movie is calm and contemplative, exploring themes of love and knowledge as the characters navigate their endless existence. Only Lovers Left Alive is a timeless masterpiece that beautifully captures the essence of enduring love.
Meet William, a proud Bethel University alumnus with a fervent passion for lifestyle and culture topics. His keen interest doesn’t stop there; he’s also deeply engrossed in current events of all kinds. William dedicates himself wholeheartedly to this site, thriving on the collaborative energy he shares with Suzanne, his long-standing partner in crime.
Having navigated their university courses side by side for years, their teamwork on the site is nothing short of dynamic. Together, they bring a unique blend of insights, proving that two heads are indeed better than one in delivering compelling content.
