A Vampire movie that doesn’t suck
Tampering with an original is always dangerous territory; however with Marti Noxon, one producer and writer of the hit TV series ‘Buffy the vampire slayer’, writing the screenplay it was sure to be a hit with vampire fanatics everywhere.
Firstly, this film is not a replica of the original, know this when you walk in and Fright Night (1985) will not be betrayed in your mind and the film (2011) will not disappoint. It is simply the same story told and presented in a way to suit the present, with humour and language adapted to fit with today’s society.
Charley Brewster (Anton Yelchin) is shocked to discover his burly mysterious new neighbour Jerry (Colin Farrell) is in fact a blood thirsty vampire on a ruthless killing spree in their suburban neighbourhood outside of Las Vegas. It becomes Charley’s mission to take this vampire down before he gets to his mother (Toni Collette) and girlfriend Amy (Imogen Poots). To do so he attempts to enlist the help of alleged vampire expert Vincent Price (David Tennant) who’s tough image is more of an illusion than his Vegas show.
Not since ‘Scream’ have humour and horror fit so well together in one film, the balance of gore and giggles was perfect, making the remake enjoyable to those of all tastes and ages, 15 and over of course. The addition of ‘Superbad’ and ‘Kick-ass’ star Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Ed excelled the laughter from those who recognised him from previous roles, but also from those who had never experienced the McLovin before.
The new craze of everything being in 3D usually goes one of two ways, it can either be spectacular adding depth and new levels to the film or it can seem obvious and tacky. Fright Night pulled off 3D very well, the occasional blood splatter flying towards the audience and added depth made watching the film more of an experience rather than just a viewing.
Colin Farrell’s performance could be compared to that of ‘bad’ Angel (Angelus) from Buffy, the sexy broody muscleman who is also a merciless killer, is portrayed flawlessly by Farrell, and his biceps. David Tennant obviously channelled the likes of Russell Brand and Johnny Depp for the character of Vincent Price. The alcoholic (not-so) bad-ass rock star type was a new look for Mr Tennant, famous for his light-hearted bubbly depiction of Doctor Who; nevertheless he brought sass and humour to the role doing the part justice.
Compared to the original the acting and effects are far superior but it is the tackiness of the 1985 version that makes it such a timeless classic that people love and remember; BUT, to reiterate, do not go in to compare or else you will not enjoy this fabulous modern take on a great story, only find fault with how it does not follow the original. Fright Night proves that vampires are finally biting back into the world of decent cinema.
Fright Night released in cinemas on September 2nd.
Words by Gemma Harling
Tampering with an original is always dangerous territory; however with Marti Noxon, one producer and writer of the hit TV series ‘Buffy the vampire slayer’, writing the screenplay it was sure to be a hit with vampire fanatics everywhere.
Firstly, this film is not a replica of the original, know this when you walk in and Fright Night (1985) will not be betrayed in your mind and the film (2011) will not disappoint. It is simply the same story told and presented in a way to suit the present, with humour and language adapted to fit with today’s society.
Charley Brewster (Anton Yelchin) is shocked to discover his burly mysterious new neighbour Jerry (Colin Farrell) is in fact a blood thirsty vampire on a ruthless killing spree in their suburban neighbourhood outside of Las Vegas. It becomes Charley’s mission to take this vampire down before he gets to his mother (Toni Collette) and girlfriend Amy (Imogen Poots). To do so he attempts to enlist the help of alleged vampire expert Vincent Price (David Tennant) who’s tough image is more of an illusion than his Vegas show.
Not since ‘Scream’ have humour and horror fit so well together in one film, the balance of gore and giggles was perfect, making the remake enjoyable to those of all tastes and ages, 15 and over of course. The addition of ‘Superbad’ and ‘Kick-ass’ star Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Ed excelled the laughter from those who recognised him from previous roles, but also from those who had never experienced the McLovin before.
The new craze of everything being in 3D usually goes one of two ways, it can either be spectacular adding depth and new levels to the film or it can seem obvious and tacky. Fright Night pulled off 3D very well, the occasional blood splatter flying towards the audience and added depth made watching the film more of an experience rather than just a viewing.
Colin Farrell’s performance could be compared to that of ‘bad’ Angel (Angelus) from Buffy, the sexy broody muscleman who is also a merciless killer, is portrayed flawlessly by Farrell, and his biceps. David Tennant obviously channelled the likes of Russell Brand and Johnny Depp for the character of Vincent Price. The alcoholic (not-so) bad-ass rock star type was a new look for Mr Tennant, famous for his light-hearted bubbly depiction of Doctor Who; nevertheless he brought sass and humour to the role doing the part justice.
Compared to the original the acting and effects are far superior but it is the tackiness of the 1985 version that makes it such a timeless classic that people love and remember; BUT, to reiterate, do not go in to compare or else you will not enjoy this fabulous modern take on a great story, only find fault with how it does not follow the original. Fright Night proves that vampires are finally biting back into the world of decent cinema.
Fright Night released in cinemas on September 2nd.
Words by Gemma Harling
