Vampyres (1974)

Very Nice, 19 June 2005

Over the past few months, I've watched three non-traditional vampire movies - Martin, Daughters of Darkness, and, now, Vampyres. These aren't your black-cape-wearing, fanged, turn-into-bats type of vampires. Instead, these vampires rely on luring an unsuspecting victim with their charms and, when the time is right, cutting them open to drink their blood. The vampires in Vampyres display a real viciousness when faced with blood. In all other respects, they appear to be quite normal.

Vampyres features some wonderful atmosphere. The old castle is a perfect setting for this kind of movie. Although we only see a couple of the rooms (due more than likely to budget restraints), both are ideal for a vampire's lair. While some of the acting is less than perfect, it's never a distraction. The music is wonderful. The theme that plays over the titles is haunting and vicious at the same time. And, while there is a considerable amount of sex and nudity, it never feels out of place. After all, it's the preferred method in Vampyres to trap a victim.

There are one or two plot points that make little sense. One that really bothers me is near the beginning of the movie when a future victim is checking-in to the local inn. The innkeeper goes on and on about knowing him and how he had stayed there before. The man claims that the innkeeper is mistaken. What's that all about? Why go through this scene of mistaken identity and never bring it up again? What's the point? Oh well, it's a small scene and easily overlooked.

8/10