Movies

5 Dark Vampire Movies to Get You Ready for VtM: Bloodlines 2

5 Dark Vampire Movies to Get You Ready for VtM: Bloodlines 2
Image credit: Columbia Pictures, Paradox Interactive

There are no original Vampire: the Masquerade movies. This is a shame, but one that shouldn’t stop you from embracing the darkness in the wake of Bloodlines 2!

5. Let the Right One In (2008)

Stepping away from the typical horror genre for a second, we have Let the Right One In. This Swedish vampire movie is as heartbreaking as it is scary since it doesn’t only show vampires as bloodsucking inhumane monsters. The film explores the desperation and loneliness that those afflicted by the Caine’s curse suffer through.

A beautiful and dark love story set in modern days, Let the Right One In could relate to any Kindred too caught up in their lost Humanity — but we can’t stop thinking about the poor pure souls of clan Salubri when watching this movie.

4. Shadow of the Vampire (2000)

A fresh take on the cult classic Nosferatu (1922), Shadow of the Vampire follows the filming of the legendary movie…which is understandably complicated by the fact that the lead star is, in fact, a vampire. A vampire movie about a vampire starring in a vampire movie might sound too arthouse but is, in fact, a ton of fun to watch.

We didn’t come off with the original Nosferatu because it’s a default must-watch for every Vampire: the Masquerade enjoyer. Shadow of the Vampire is less known but is totally worth your time, especially if you loved the OG Sewer Rat story.

3. Thirst (2009)

Every VtM fan knows that no place on Earth is safe from the vampire menace, so it comes as no surprise that Thirst originates from South Korea. Directed by Park Chan-wook, this movie tackles the issues of faith, love, and humanity, and only Masquerades as a horror. In reality, it’s a deep and visually striking essay of hope.

Nothing gives off such strong Lasombra vibes as a devoted Christian priest who becomes a vampire and struggles with his awoken dark urges and Hunger. Oh, the naivety and beauty of those who seek to keep their Humanity amid this chaos.

2. 30 Days of Night (2007)

David Slade's outstanding entry into the world of the horror genre, 30 Days of Night doesn’t pretend to be anything more than it wants to be. It’s a never-stopping, unhinged, blood-soaked carnage for almost two hours straight, and we’re oh so down for it. Action-packed, Hunger-fueled, and utterly grotesque in its violence.

If you’ve ever wondered what the Sabbat hordes rushing through cities looked like, this is the movie for you. Keep a close look at your Humanity dots as you watch an army of vampires tear a small Alaskan town apart during a month-long night.

1. Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992)

What do you get if you combine Bram Stoker’s iconic gothic novel, Francis Ford Coppola’s movie-making genius, and Gary Oldman ’s phenomenal acting chops? “One of the best vampire movies to have ever existed” is the correct answer. Enter Bram Stoker’s Dracula — the cult classic movie about the cult classic bloodsucker.

Dracula’s story doesn’t need much explanation: it perfectly encompasses the darkest aspects of the vampire lore and resonates with every Masquerade fan. After all, who if not Dracula would be the perfect example of “an Elder wants to have some fun”?