Review of Lust for a Vampire (1971) by Whit W — 22 Oct 2012

The film is trying to do with Vampire Lovers what Prince of Darkness did with The Horror of Dracula back in the 50's. Doesn't work. The plot is almost a copy of the first movie, with similar characters, similar turns of story, but only so much simpler and poorer. The effects are obvious low-budget, with red paint for blood and the occational wax dolls. The film has been oddly edited, in some scenes one may see how the person is walking in the late evening darkness and goes into a restaurant, and when inside, one may clearly see how sun is shining through the windows and doorways. And one was wondering, since when can old-style vampires walk in broad daylight, have a crush on mortals and smile warmly? Since this movie, probably.

The storytelling is predictable and not very original. What is going to happen, is rather easy to guess before midway to the film.

The movie does have some nice things which prevent it becoming a complete disaster, such as well-thought of sets and the music, which is actually quite atmospheric. The acting is very nice, and one may observe how the actors and actresses try their best. It's just that the film is over all so very silly, that even nice, sincere try on the part of the actors is not enough from saving it from sinking into the mire of low-budget studio horror. Not very good as a vampire film, but nice 19th century horror-drama from the 70's with a low-budget feeling and sequel mentality to it..