Vampire mythology or lore is ever-present on television. Dark, thrilling, funny or moralistic, these shows have become an essential part of American culture. Most are aimed at the teeny bopper demographic (TV-14) and often based on YA (young adult) books or movies. Not all are as shockingly bad as Shadow Hunters or ridiculously formulaic as Vampire Academy. Some are a bit novel and well produced like Reginald The Vampire. Then there are the uber popular ones which strike the right balance between fantasy, action and romance. Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Being Human, The Vampire Diaries and its spin-off The Originals were long-running. Predictable and nearly interchangeable, they rarely rise to the level of excellence or innovation to be awarded. But they are perfect for escapism and bingeing.
So what is your favorite vampire television show? I prefer the darker, horror shows, with a unique twist on the genre. Here are my current top 5 vampire shows.
True Blood (2008-14, Fantasy, TV-MA)
Telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse encounters a strange new supernatural world when she meets the mysterious Bill Compton, a southern Louisiana gentleman and vampire (IMDB).
As explicit as it is comedic, this story is entertaining. The cast of scene stealers ground this zany and heart-warming show, but, the life-long friendship between Sookie and Tara lacked authenticity. While Sookie, a white, blond woman is centered, the show makes room for all of humanity, regardless of race, sexuality or species. The supernatural world of Bon Temp is truly fantastical. (4/5)
The Strain ( 2014-7, Fantasy-Horror, TV-MA)
A mysterious viral outbreak with hallmarks of an ancient and evil strain of vampirism ravages the city of New York. (IMDB).
Based on a graphic novel and led by an all-star creative team including Guillermo del Torro, this scientific spin on vampirism is gory. Light on the usual vampire lore and heavy on storytelling conventions, this has something for everyone; its a medical procedural (House), CDC thriller (Contagion) and even a divorce drama (Kramer vs Kramer). Above all, from the pilot (plane crash) to the finale (nuke), it is dark and twisty; the imagery is stomach curdling with refreshingly flawed characters. A compelling and entertaining binge for vampire aficionados! (4/5)
Preacher (2016-19 Fantasy-Adventure, TV-MA)
After a supernatural event at his church, a preacher enlists the help of a vampire and his ex to find God (IMDB).
Based on a comic book series, the characters, storytelling and visuals are unique. This wickedly funny and insightful vampire tale leans into religious redemption. This fangless vampire story rejects much of the genre’s lore and tropes Genre hooping, ping-ponging between serious and silly this is the kind of engaging prestige tv you don’t have to love nor hate, but you’ll watch nevertheless. In this Tarantino meets Dexter world angels, demons and monsters are all very, very real. (4/5)
A Discovery of Witches (2018-22, Fantasy-Romance, TV-MA)
Diana Bishop, historian and witch, accesses Ashmole 782 and knows she must solve its mysteries. She is offered help by the enigmatic Matthew Clairmont, but he’s a vampire and witches should never trust vampires (IMDB).
Equal parts historical fiction and fantasy, this time-traveling love story is a heightened fairytale. This world of witches, vampires and demons is not immune to white privilege, sexism, xenophobia… Dubbed Twilight for grown-ups, it ain’t the antiracist escapism of Bridgerton, but the tale’s allegory is sufficient and the imagery is often stunning. (3/5)
Interview With The Vampire (2022- Horror-Fantasy.TV-MA)
Based on Anne Rice’s iconic novel, follow Louis de Pointe’s epic story of love, blood and the perils of immortality, as told to the journalist Daniel Molloy (IMDB).
Daring from its diverse cast to its commentary on history, race, sexuality, love and friendship, the series refuses to be blindly faithful to the original. The premise remains, but the intention, indeed vision is culturally different than Anne Rice’s 1976 book or Neil Jordan’s 1994 movie. The exploration of Louis, Lestat and Claudia ‘s relationship is unfettered. At its core, the series centers the American idea of family as much as it unveils the life of a purported vampire.
Imaginative and revealing, this is a thoughtful adaptation. The dialogue is lush with quips and expansive monologues. The performances are transcendent hitting familiar and otherworldly notes; this includes New Orleans. The series’ restraint elevates the story. The silent moments are as rewarding as the action sequences. No doubt, this show will be recognized during award season. (Curated Ramblings). (5/5)
Curated Ramblings 