Directed by: Craig Gillespie
Starring: Anton Yelchin, Colin Farrell, David Tennant, Imogen Poots, Toni Collette, Christopher Mintz-Plasse
Distributed by Touchstone Pictures
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 106 minutes
Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars
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Click here to read our interview with star Imogen Poots
When it comes to horror films, it is hard for them to remake our “babies”. I happened though to have really enjoyed this film. I have to say it was really well done and it is a great upgrade to the series. It kept the charm of the first film but added more action, humor and class. Plus who doesn’t like vampires in 3D…I sure do!…and yes BTW it was shot in 3D (more on that later). What makes it even better is that you have a fantastic young cast led by the amazing Colin Farrell. NOTE: Die-hard fans of the original make sure to keep an eye out about half way through for a great cameo from the original Jerry, Chris Sarandon.
The story gets an update in this remake and moved to the outskirts of Las Vegas because where else is a perfect setting for people that play all night and sleep all day. We follow Charley (Anton Yelchin) who, of course, suspects that his new neighbor Jerry (Colin Farrell) is a vampire after being convinced by his friend Ed (Christopher Mintz-Plasse). Once Jerry catches on to Charley knowledge of him all war is waged on him and his friends and family. Charley then visits and seeks the help from Las Vegas magician and vampire expert Peter Vincent (David Tennant) to try beat him.
Anton Yelchin and Imogen Poots are great newcomers and are going to be taking over Hollywood soon. Christopher Mintz-Plasse’s role is limited but effective. Christopher really gets a chance to act in this film and not just play the nerd. I have to tell you Roddy McDowall is a hard act to follow but David Tennant (known best for playing the 10th Doctor Who) is simply spectacular!! He is funny and steals most of his scenes. But let’s give it up to Colin Farrell who is such plays the amazingly bad-ass vampire, Jerry. Colin not only hits a home run, he gets a grand slam with this film and the role really suites him well.
The special effects in the film are really well done and the makeup is phenomenal, kudos as usual to KNB EFX team, Howard Berger and Greg Nicotero. The film was shot using 3D cameras like the recent “Final Destination 5” and it really improves the film. The 3D is subtle but adds good depth and a few “whoa” jump moments, especially at the end. Overall if you are fan of the original I suggest you give this film an open-minded chance and if you haven’t seen the original you will still have a blast with this for sure (then watch the original, cause it rules!).