Review of Byzantium (2013) by Marischa B — 22 Oct 2013

Neil Jordan's brilliant return to the vampire genre is an accomplished horror film that brings back key elements to what vampire films should be. After the absolutely dreadful Twilight books and subsequent films polluted vampires from being creepy to ridiculous.

Byzantium is the best vampire film since Let the Right One In, and it a brilliant tour de force from a director who treats the vampire with respect. Jordan previously helmed the classic vampire film Interview with the Vampire, and he proves that he is suited for the job; Byzantium is a brilliant film with a tense, dark atmosphere and plenty of bloodletting that will certainly delight genre fans that enjoy a classic style vamp flick.

The film boasts some great performances by its cast, and even if it movies a bit slow, the plot unravels well enough to keep you interested from start to finish. This is a fine return of what made vampires scary.

With effective direction and a great cast and well structured plot, Byzantium is a worthy vampire film that brings back classic genre elements in a refreshing new way. Neil Jordan has crafted something truly engaging here, a highly memorable horror film, and possibly one of the strongest, most evocative horror films of the year.

This film is destined to become a classic with genre fans, and if you've been let down with the likes of Twilight, then give this film is the one that you should see. Byzantium succeeds on many levels, and if you enjoy atmospheric vampire tales, then you owe it to yourself to give this one a shot.

Saoirse Ronan delivers a great performance here, and she is a very talented actress that just lights up every scene that she's in. If you want a well constructed horror film that brings back genre traditions, Byzantium will not disappoint.