"What We Do in the Shadows" is a mockumentary-style horror-comedy film that offers a unique and hilarious take on the lives of vampires. Released in 2014, the film is a creation of the talented minds of Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, who co-wrote, co-directed, and starred in this darkly comedic masterpiece.
Release Date and Directors:
The film had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 19, 2014, and was later released in New Zealand on June 19, 2014. Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi shared the directorial duties for this innovative comedy.
Synopsis:
Set in Wellington, New Zealand, "What We Do in the Shadows" follows the lives of four vampire flatmates who share a house. Viago (Taika Waititi), Vladislav (Jemaine Clement), Deacon (Jonathan Brugh), and Petyr (Ben Fransham) navigate the challenges of modern life, including paying rent, doing household chores, and dealing with each other's idiosyncrasies.
The film employs a mockumentary format, as a documentary film crew follows the vampires around to capture their daily (or rather, nightly) activities. From struggling with technology to awkward encounters with humans, the vampires' unlife is portrayed with a perfect blend of horror and humor.
As the story unfolds, the centuries-old vampire flatmates face unexpected challenges, including the introduction of a new, younger vampire named Nick (Cori Gonzalez-Macuer) into their undead household.
The clash of personalities and the absurdity of their existence lead to comedic chaos, making "What We Do in the Shadows" a standout film in the horror-comedy genre.
Significance, Themes, and Why You Should Watch:
"What We Do in the Shadows" stands out for its fresh and inventive approach to the vampire genre. It brilliantly combines elements of horror with absurd humor, providing a unique perspective on the challenges and mundanity of immortality.
The film's clever satire, witty writing, and excellent performances make it a must-watch for those who appreciate unconventional comedies and enjoy a good laugh at the expense of supernatural creatures.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
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Australia (AU):
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United Kingdom (GB):
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Germany (DE):
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Brazil (BR):
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Spain (ES):
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France (FR):
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Canada (CA):
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Production Details:
The film was not without its challenges, as the mockumentary format required careful execution to balance horror and comedy effectively. The co-directors, Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, managed to create a visually engaging and entertaining film despite the constraints of the documentary style.
Filming took place in and around Wellington, New Zealand, adding an authentic backdrop to the vampire tale. The production team successfully navigated the balance between practical effects and digital enhancements to bring the supernatural elements to life.
With a modest budget, "What We Do in the Shadows" showcases the filmmakers' creativity and resourcefulness, proving that a compelling story and strong comedic performances can outweigh the need for extravagant special effects.
Reception and Awards:
Critical Reception: Critics lauded "What We Do in the Shadows" for its innovative concept, sharp humor, and clever writing. The film's mockumentary style and unique take on vampire lore received widespread acclaim.
Audience Reception: Audiences embraced the film for its humor, originality, and memorable characters. It gained a cult following, particularly among fans of offbeat comedies and those who appreciate a fresh perspective on the supernatural.
Awards and Nominations: While not a major blockbuster, the film earned several nominations and awards at various film festivals. It won the People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2014, solidifying its popularity among audiences.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi first collaborated on the film "Eagle vs Shark" in 2007 before co-directing "What We Do in the Shadows."
- The film originated from a short film of the same name, which also featured the mockumentary style and explored the daily lives of vampires.
- Many of the film's scenes were improvised, adding to the natural and spontaneous feel of the mockumentary format.
- The character of Petyr, the ancient and more monstrous vampire, is portrayed by actor Ben Fransham, who is known for his work in special effects makeup.
Controversies and Interesting Stories:
Fortunately, "What We Do in the Shadows" didn't face significant controversies. However, the film's success paved the way for further collaborations between Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, including their work on the television adaptation of the film, which premiered in 2019.
In summary, "What We Do in the Shadows" is a comedic gem that successfully reimagines vampire lore through a mockumentary lens.
With its clever humor, memorable characters, and fresh take on the supernatural, the film has earned its place as a cult favorite and remains a delightful and entertaining watch for fans of both horror and comedy.