Movie Review: What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
Synopsis
What We Do in the Shadows is a unique mockumentary that delves into the lives of four vampire roommates living in modern-day Wellington, New Zealand. Directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, the film follows the daily routines of the vampires as they navigate the complexities of contemporary life, grappling with mundane issues such as household chores, dating, and their relationships with both other supernatural beings and humans. The film is structured as a documentary, complete with interviews and candid shot compositions, which further enhances its comedic charm. The quirky ensemble features Viago, a romantic softie; Vladislav, a seductive but insecure dark lord; Deacon, a rebellious young vampire; and Nick, a recent convert, whose transition to vampirism brings both hilarity and chaos to their lives. As they struggle to fit into the human world, their antics turn increasingly absurd, leading to laugh-out-loud moments that question what it means to be a vampire in a world dominated by technology and social conventions.
Cast List
- Jemaine Clement as Vladislav
- Taika Waititi as Viago
- Jonathan Brugh as Deacon
- Cori Gonzales-Macuer as Nick
- Jackie van Beek as Lisa
- Angela Delves as the Human Woman
- Rhys Darby as Anton the Werewolf
Review
From its very inception, What We Do in the Shadows immediately distinguishes itself from other vampire films, offering an ingenious blend of comedy, horror, and social commentary. The mockumentary style perfectly captures the absurdity of the protagonists’ eternal existence and highlights their interactions with a world that is often alien and bewildering to them. This format allows the audience a closer look at the vampires’ personalities and quirks, enabling us to relate to their struggles and laugh at their misfortunes.
The quartet of vampires, each embodying various archetypes of the vampire mythos, brings a dynamic yet cohesive vibe to the film. Viago, portrayed by Taika Waititi, is endearingly charming with his gentlemanly manners and hopeless romanticism. He provides the heart of the group, revealing a side of vampirism that defies the stereotypical narrative of bloodlust and evil. Jemaine Clement’s Vladislav, a parody of the archetypal seducer, is steeped in an air of both nostalgia and insecurity, reflecting on his past glory days when he was a fearsome vampire. His charming yet slightly pretentious demeanor contributes to the film’s comedic contrasts.
Jonathan Brugh’s Deacon serves as the embodiment of youthful rebellion, reminiscent of the archetypal "bad boy" with his disregard for rules and a penchant for troublemaking. His character, juxtaposed with the more traditional vampires, brings a refreshing irreverence to the story. Adding another layer to the mix is Cori Gonzales-Macuer’s Nick, a fledgling vampire who stirs up chaos among the others, often aggravating the established order of their lives and leading to comic misunderstandings.
What sets What We Do in the Shadows apart from other comedy films is not just its satirical take on vampirism but also its clever commentary on the human condition. The vampires’ struggles reflect aspects that many viewers can relate to—dating woes, domestic discord, and navigating the intricate web of social expectations. Their timelessness, coupled with an anachronistic perspective on modern technology, lends itself to humorous observations about online dating, nightlife, and friendship.
The film’s brilliance lies in its attention to detail and meticulous execution. Every scene is filled with subtle humour, from the mundane activities of doing the dishes to awkward encounters with humans and other supernatural beings. The vampires’ interactions with werewolves, particularly that of Rhys Darby’s Anton and his wolf-pack friends, further enhance the comedy, cleverly parodying the oft-stereotypical rivalries in horror lore. Anton’s exasperated attempts to explain the differences between werewolves and vampires injects a fresh dose of hilarity while highlighting the film’s commitment to world-building.
Moreover, the use of practical effects rather than CGI adds a nostalgic touch to the film, harkening back to classic horror while embracing modern storytelling techniques. The filmmakers expertly navigate the line between homage and parody, enriching the narrative with a sense of playful reverence towards vampire lore. This homage is evident in the care given to designs for various sequences, such as the bloodsucking scenes and the iconic flight sequences. These moments serve to enhance the viewer’s immersion into the fascinating yet flawed lives of the vampires.
One standout aspect of the film is its ability to balance humour with poignant moments of introspection. The vampires, while inherently comedic, exhibit feelings of loneliness and longing for connection—an aspect that resonates deeply with audiences. Their heartwarming attempts to understand human emotions and interact with humans, especially when faced with rejection or awkwardness, craft an emotional tapestry that adroitly complements the humour.
Clement and Waititi’s screenplay is sharp and witty, expertly weaving in clever one-liners and situational humour that elevates the film beyond typical comedy fare. They maintain an authenticity throughout, ensuring that even the most outrageous scenarios remain grounded in relatable emotions. The dialogue flows organically, punctuated by moments of absurdity that land without feeling forced. This balance between calculated comedy and spontaneous invention is a testament to the duo’s writing prowess.
In addition, the cinematography plays an essential role in establishing the film’s tone. The documentary format invites viewers to witness the vampires’ lives up close and personal, enhancing both the comedic and emotional dynamics. The handheld camera movements and natural lighting lend an air of authenticity to the film, making it feel as though we are privy to a hidden world—one just a bit more eccentric than our own.
In conclusion, What We Do in the Shadows is a masterclass in blending horror with comedy, utilising the familiar trope of vampires to shine a nuanced light on friendship, loneliness, and the struggle of self-identity. The film is not only a celebration of the oddities of life but also a reminder of the fragility of existence—regardless of one’s immortality. Its ability to elicit genuine laughter alongside heartfelt reflections makes it a standout entry in both the mockumentary and vampire genres.
The acting performances are commendable across the board, both for their comedic timing and ability to portray deeper emotional arcs, while the writing and direction offer a fresh and clever take on a well-trodden path. The film’s unique charm, creativity, and biting wit coalesce into an unforgettable viewing experience.
Overall, I would rate What We Do in the Shadows a 9 out of 10. This film succeeds in delivering both laughs and heart while presenting a refreshing perspective on vampires that remains engaging and entertaining from start to finish. Ultimately, it invites us to ponder not only the absurdities of eternal life but also the universal experiences of love, friendship, and finding one’s place in the world.
