Review of Fright Night (1985) by Matt G — 15 Aug 2011

As I finally watched the original (and always superior) 'Fright Night' for the first time, I was overwhelmingly and indescribably blown away, as well as disappointed in myself that it took me this long to see it.

Aside from being a magnificent horror film, it is a standalone comedy, with a witty script that is delivered well by the actors performances. Chris Sarandon gives a pitch perfect performance as Jerry Danridge who masterfully plays a truly mind-blowingly creepy vampire.

Aside from the obvious scene stealer, the young actors do a fine job in their roles, as well as the vampire hunter himself, Peter Vincent (brilliantly played by Roddy McDowall, who was Cornelius and Caesar in the original 'Planet of the Apes' films).

What I enjoyed the most about 'Fright Night' was the fact that these are characters we really care about, and are very likable, primarily [Evil] Ed, brilliantly portrayed by Stephen Geoffreys who was one of the funniest characters in the film, and was easily the most likable character aside from Charlie, played by William Ragsdale in yet another pitch-perfect performance from this film.

. Amanda Bearse who portrayed Amy was just average, nothing important, not so stunning or totally memorable, but still acceptable enough for the role written. The horror is quite well-executed in this; and while it may not take itself completely seriously, frights and scares are delivered well and with ease, and it still serves itself as a standalone genre, making 'Fright Night' a likable, chilling, magnificent film, and a admirably flawless cult classic that will never be inferior to a sequel, rip-off, nor remake (although I can understand why studios would want to remake this considering the never ending wave of teen-oriented "vampire" films).

Knowing that CGI wasn't used at all for this, I was astonished with the admirably scary makeup, along with superb costume design. The effective makeup works best with Evil Ed, most notably when the cross is burning on his head, which was extremely well done, along with all of the other effects throughout the film.

Another great effect for its time was Jerry's transformation into a bat, and although I don't quite know how it was done, it was undeniably impressive for the late 80s. My only major complaint would be that the ending was a bit cliche and predictable, but that by no means did not stop me from enjoying 'Fright Night' as a magnificent horror film.