Vampires have long been a staple of horror cinema, captivating audiences since the early days of film with Universal's iconic portrayal of Dracula. Over the decades, vampires have evolved through various interpretations—from the sparkling romantic figures to grotesque creatures, comedic roommates, and beyond. These nocturnal beings continue to thrive in the cinematic world, their dark allure undiminished. In this article, we delve into the finest vampire movies across history, reflecting on how the genre has transformed alongside the shifting tides of horror cinema.
While we have curated a list of what we believe to be the best vampire films, there are several noteworthy movies that did not make the cut but are still highly regarded by fans. Films like "Suck," "The Transfiguration," "Byzantium," "Blood Red Sky," and "Blade" are all worthy contenders and we encourage you to share your personal favorites in the comments section after exploring our selections below.
Now, let's sink our teeth into the rich tapestry of vampire cinema and explore the 25 best vampire movies of all time. For those interested in more horror, don't miss our list of the best monster movies.
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Image credit: General Foreign Sales CorpDirector: Carl Theodor Dreyer | Writer: Carl Theodor Dreyer, Christen Jul | Stars: Julian West, Rena Mandel, Sybille Schmitz | Release Date: May 6, 1932 (Germany) August 14, 1934 (US) | Runtime: 75 minutes | Review: IGN's Vampyr review | Where to watch: Stream on Max and The Criterion Channel
Criterion has hailed "Vampyr" as a horror classic, and for good reason. Danish filmmaker Carl Theodor Dreyer masterfully uses the limited technological advancements of his time to craft a black-and-white vampire mystery that dances with surrealism. The film is renowned for its use of shadows that seem to have a life of their own, lending a dreamlike quality to the supernatural elements. While it may not reach the heights of "Nosferatu," "Vampyr" showcases how vampire films can stand out through innovative visual effects and a ghostly ambiance, even with the constraints of early cinema.
Image credit: Vertical EntertainmentDirector: Brad Michael Elmore | Writer: Brad Michael Elmore | Stars: Nicole Maines, Diana Hopper, Zolee Griggs | Release Date: April 24, 2020 | Runtime: 90 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Prime Video, Hoopla, or Freevee (with ads)
Brad Michael Elmore's "Bit" shines brightly with its vibrant aesthetic and compelling narrative. The film follows a transgender teenager, played by Nicole Maines, who moves to Los Angeles and becomes entangled with a fierce group of female vampires led by the charismatic Duke, portrayed by Diana Hopper. "Bit" captures the essence of LA with its stylish depiction of nightlife and a soundtrack featuring Starcrawler's "I Love LA." Despite its indie budget, the movie boasts a bold feminist message and delivers thrilling horror elements, appealing to both younger audiences and hardcore horror fans.
Image Credit: Focus FeaturesDirector: Robert Eggers | Writer: Robert Eggers | Stars: Bill Skarsgård, Lily-Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Willem Dafoe | Release Date: December 25, 2024 | Runtime: 132 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Peacock
Robert Eggers's passion project, "Nosferatu," is a visually stunning and atmospherically rich reinterpretation of the classic tale. Jarin Blaschke's cinematography, which earned an Oscar nomination, perfectly captures Eggers's meticulous vision. Bill Skarsgård's transformation into the menacing Count Orlok is both terrifying and mesmerizing, while Lily-Rose Depp delivers a captivating performance as his tormented muse. Supported by a stellar cast including Nicholas Hoult, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Willem Dafoe, Eggers's film is a gothic masterpiece that blends horror with sublime artistry.
Image credit: Walt Disney Studios Director: Craig Gillespie | Writer: Marti Noxon, Tom Holland | Stars: Anton Yelchin, Colin Farrell, David Tennant | Release Date: August 19, 2011 | Runtime: 106 minutes | Review: IGN's Fright Night review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon Prime Video
The 2011 remake of "Fright Night" earns its place on this list for its heightened intensity and dynamic pacing. With standout performances from Colin Farrell as the menacing vampire Jerry Dandridge and David Tennant as the flamboyant Peter Vincent, this version distinguishes itself from the beloved 1985 original. While the original may excel in practical effects, the remake offers a fresh take that is relentlessly predatory and thrilling from start to finish.
Image credit: Scream FactoryDirector: Brian James O'Connell | Writer: Brian James O'Connell, Ryan Mitts, Dr. God | Stars: Fran Kranz, Pedro Pascal, Joey Kern | Release Date: September 4, 2015 | Runtime: 86 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Peacock, Pluto TV, and Prime Video
"Bloodsucking Bastards" cleverly uses vampirism as a metaphor for the soul-sucking nature of corporate life. This horror comedy follows a sales office that turns into a den of vampires, with Fran Kranz and Pedro Pascal delivering hilarious performances. The film satirizes office culture with its undead twist, offering a unique blend of humor and horror that resonates with fans of "Worksploitation" films.
Image credit: Warner Bros. PicturesDirector: Joel Schumacher | Writer: Janice Fischer, James Jeremias, Jeffrey Boam | Stars: Kiefer Sutherland, Corey Haim, Dianne Wiest | Release Date: July 31, 1987 | Runtime: 97 minutes | Review: IGN's The Lost Boys review | Where to watch: Rent from Amazon Prime Video and other platforms
"The Lost Boys" is a quintessential '80s horror film that blends teenage rebellion with supernatural thrills. Set in the vampire-infested town of Santa Carla, the movie features Kiefer Sutherland's menacing gang of vampires and a memorable soundtrack, including the iconic "Sexy Sax Man." Joel Schumacher's direction captures the era's excess, making "The Lost Boys" a standout with its mix of style and scares.
Image credit: Horsefly ProductionsDirector: Yannis Veslemes | Writer: Yannis Veslemes | Stars: Vangelis Mourikis, Alexia Kaltsiki, Daniel Bolda | Release Date: January 3, 2015 (Greece) December 19, 2017 (US) | Runtime: 73 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Screambox
"Norway" is an under-the-radar gem that blends Eurotrash aesthetics with a unique take on vampirism. The film follows a vampire who claims he'll die if he stops dancing, set against the backdrop of 1980s nightclubs and Nazi conspiracies. Yannis Veslemes's ambitious vision results in a visually stunning film that feels like a series of glitzy music video segments, making "Norway" a truly distinctive entry in vampire cinema.
Image credit: October FilmsDirector: Guillermo del Toro | Writer: Guillermo del Toro | Stars: Federico Luppi, Ron Perlman, Claudio Brook | Release Date: December 3, 1993 (Mexico) March 30, 1994 (US) | Runtime: 94 minutes | Review: IGN's Cronos review | Where to watch: Stream on Max, The Criterion Channel
Guillermo del Toro's debut feature, "Cronos," introduces a fresh take on vampirism through the story of a golden scarab that grants eternal life. The film features a young Ron Perlman and delves into themes of addiction and the humanization of monsters. Del Toro's signature style is evident in every frame, setting the stage for his future explorations of the macabre.
Image credit: New Line CinemaDirector: Guillermo del Toro | Writer: David S. Goyer | Stars: Wesley Snipes, Kris Kristofferson, Ron Perlman | Release Date: March 22, 2002 | Runtime: 117 minutes | Review: IGN's Blade 2 review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and other platforms
"Blade 2" stands out as a superior sequel in the comic book franchise, thanks to Guillermo del Toro's direction. The film enhances the original's industrial aesthetic with more colorful landscapes and terrifying vampire designs. Wesley Snipes's iconic portrayal of Blade remains a highlight, complemented by del Toro's flair for practical effects and action-packed sequences.
Image credit: IFC FilmsDirector: Jim Mickle | Writer: Jim Mickle, Nick Damici | Stars: Connor Paolo, Nick Damici, Kelly McGillis | Release Date: October 1, 2010 | Runtime: 98 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Kanopy and Prime Video
"Stake Land" offers a gritty, apocalyptic take on vampirism, serving as a stark contrast to the romanticized vampires of the "Twilight" era. The film follows survivors navigating a vampire-infested wasteland, with Nick Damici's vampire hunter mentoring a young protégé. Its relentless action and bleak atmosphere make "Stake Land" a compelling entry in the genre.
Image credit: Soda PicturesDirector: Jim Jarmusch | Writer: Jim Jarmusch | Stars: Tilda Swinton, Tom Hiddleston, Mia Wasikowska | Release Date: November 7, 2013 (Lithuania) April 11, 2014 (US) | Runtime: 123 minutes | Review: IGN's Only Lovers Left Alive review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and other platforms
Jim Jarmusch's "Only Lovers Left Alive" is a stylish and contemplative take on vampirism, blending indie rock vibes with themes of addiction and corruption. Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston deliver mesmerizing performances as ancient vampires navigating the modern world. The film's cool aesthetic and thoughtful exploration of eternal life make it a standout in vampire cinema.
Image credit: Sony PicturesDirector: David Slade | Writer: Steve Niles, Stuart Beattie, Brian Nelson | Stars: Josh Hartnett, Melissa George, Danny Huston | Release Date: October 19, 2007 | Runtime: 113 minutes | Review: IGN's 30 Days of Night review | Where to watch: Stream on Paramount+ Apple TV, rent on Amazon and most platforms
"30 Days of Night" is a gripping comic book adaptation that plunges viewers into an Alaskan town besieged by vampires during its month-long night. Josh Hartnett and Melissa George anchor a tense survival story, while Danny Huston's portrayal of the vampire leader adds a chilling dimension to the film. Its relentless pace and graphic violence make it a standout in modern horror.
Image credit: Kelly-Jordan EnterprisesDirector: Bill Gunn | Writer: Bill Gunn | Stars: Duane Jones, Marlene Clark, Bill Gunn | Release Date: April 20, 1973 | Runtime: 112 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Kanopy
"Ganja & Hess" is a groundbreaking vampire film that explores themes of race and addiction through the lens of a Black vampire narrative. Bill Gunn's experimental approach, combined with a haunting score and raw depiction of vampirism, makes this film a significant contribution to horror cinema. Its focus on the Black experience adds a unique layer to the genre.
Image credit: Warner Bros.Director: Neil Jordan | Writer: Anne Rice | Stars: Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Antonio Banderas | Release Date: November 11, 1994 | Runtime: 123 minutes | Review: IGN's Interview with the Vampire review | Where to watch: Rentable on Amazon and other platforms
"Interview With the Vampire" is a lavish adaptation of Anne Rice's novel, featuring standout performances from Tom Cruise as the charismatic Lestat and Brad Pitt as the conflicted Louis. The film's sumptuous visuals and exploration of vampire family dynamics make it a memorable entry in the genre. Its bold embrace of queer subtext and ornate production design set it apart from other vampire films.
Anne Rice's "Interview with the Vampire" was also adapted into a TV series in 2022, offering a fresh perspective on the story.
Image credit: Miramax FilmsDirector: Robert Rodriguez | Writer: Quentin Tarantino | Stars: George Clooney, Juliette Lewis, Quentin Tarantino | Release Date: January 19, 1996 | Runtime: 108 minutes | Review: IGN's From Dusk Till Dawn review | Where to watch: Watch free (with ads) on Pluto TV, rentable from other platforms
"From Dusk Till Dawn" is a thrilling blend of crime and horror, masterfully directed by Robert Rodriguez and written by Quentin Tarantino. The film's unexpected shift from a kidnapping thriller to a vampire siege is both shocking and exhilarating. With standout performances and inventive action sequences, it remains a cult favorite in vampire cinema.
Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: Tod Browning, Karl Freund | Writer: Garrett Fort | Stars: Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler, David Manners | Release Date: February 14, 1931 | Runtime: 75 mins | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon Prime Video and other platforms
"Dracula" marks the iconic debut of Bela Lugosi's Count Dracula, setting the standard for vampire portrayals. Tod Browning's film, despite its limited technology, creates an atmospheric masterpiece with its gothic settings and eerie black-and-white visuals. Lugosi's hypnotic performance and the film's enduring legacy make it a cornerstone of vampire cinema.
See more of the best horror movies of all time.
Image credit: Kino Lorber/Vice FilmsDirector: Ana Lily Amirpour | Writer: Ana Lily Amirpour | Stars: Sheila Vand, Arash Marandi, Mozhan Marnò | Release Date: November 21, 2014 | Runtime: 101 minutes | Review: IGN's A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night review | Where to watch: Stream on Kanopy
"A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night" is a visually striking debut from Ana Lily Amirpour, blending elements of horror, romance, and spaghetti Westerns. Set in the fictional Bad City, the film follows a female vampire who seeks justice and connection. Its black-and-white cinematography and unique storytelling make it a standout in contemporary vampire cinema.
Image credit: MGM/UA Entertainment Co.Director: Tony Scott | Writer: Ivan Davis, Michael Thomas | Stars: Catherine Deneuve, David Bowie, Susan Sarandon | Release Date: April 29, 1983 | Runtime: 97 minutes | Review: IGN's The Hunger review | Where to watch: Rent Amazon and more
"The Hunger" is a sultry and chaotic vampire film that blends horror with eroticism. Directed by Tony Scott, it features captivating performances from Catherine Deneuve, David Bowie, and Susan Sarandon. The film's stylish visuals and intense themes of desire and decay make it a memorable entry in the genre.
Image credit: Unison/PaladinDirector: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi | Writer: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi | Stars: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi, Cori Gonzalez-Macuer | Release Date: June 19, 2014 (NZ) February 13, 2015 (US) | Runtime: 86 minutes | Review: IGN's What We Do in the Shadows review | Where to watch: Rent from Apple TV and more
"What We Do in the Shadows" is a hilarious mockumentary that lovingly parodies vampire tropes. Directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, the film follows a group of vampires navigating modern life. Its clever humor and affectionate nod to vampire lore make it a standout comedy and horror film.
Make sure to check out the spin-off "What We Do in the Shadows" TV show for even more laughs.
Image credit: Sandrew MetronomeDirector: Tomas Alfredson | Writer: John Ajvide Lindqvist | Stars: Kåre Hedebrant, Lina Leandersson, Per Ragnar | Release Date: October 24, 2008 | Runtime: 114 mins | Review: IGN's Let the Right One In review | Where to watch: Stream on FuboTV and Hoopla
"Let the Right One In" is a poignant and chilling tale of friendship and vampirism. The film follows the bond between two outcast children, one of whom is a vampire. Its tender yet brutal narrative and atmospheric setting make it a standout in modern vampire cinema.
Image credit: De Laurentiis Entertainment GroupDirector: Kathryn Bigelow | Writer: Eric Red, Kathryn Bigelow | Stars: Adrian Pasdar, Jenny Wright, Bill Paxton | Release Date: October 2, 1987 | Runtime: 94 minutes | Review: IGN's Near Dark review | Where to watch: Not available to stream
"Near Dark" is an unconventional vampire western that blends horror with the ruggedness of the American frontier. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, it features a compelling story of a young man drawn into a family of vampires. Its unique setting and intense action sequences make it a memorable entry in the genre.
Image credit: Entertainment OneDirector: Derek Lee, Clif Prowse | Writer: | Stars: Derek Lee, Clif Prowse, Baya Rehaz | Release Date: April 4, 2014 | Runtime: 85 minutes | Review: IGN's Afflicted review | Where to watch: Rent from Apple TV
"Afflicted" is an innovative found footage vampire film that combines horror with parkour action. The story follows a man's transformation into a vampire, captured through dynamic GoPro footage. Its fresh approach and intense physical performances make it a standout in recent vampire cinema.
Image credit: Film Arts GuildDirector: F. W. Murnau | Writer: Henrik Galeen | Stars: Max Shcreck, Alexander Granach, Gustav von Wangenheim | Release Date: March 4, 1922 (Germany) 1929 (US) | Runtime: 94 mins | Where to watch: Stream on Prime Video, Screambox, Kanopy, and more
"Nosferatu" is a seminal vampire film that remains influential a century later. F. W. Murnau's silent masterpiece features Max Schreck's haunting portrayal of Count Orlok. Its atmospheric black-and-white visuals and eerie storytelling make it a foundational work in horror cinema.
Image credit: Focus FeaturesDirector: Park Chan-wook | Writer: Park Chan-wook, Jeong Seo-kyeong | Stars: Song Kang-ho, Kim Ok-bin, Seo Dong-soo | Release Date: April 30, 2009 | Runtime: 134 minutes | Review: IGN's Thirst review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and more
"Thirst" is a provocative and artful exploration of vampirism, directed by Park Chan-wook. The film follows a priest turned vampire and his complex relationships. Its bold storytelling and stunning visuals make it a standout in vampire cinema.
Image credit: Columbia PicturesDirector: Francis Ford Coppola | Writer: James V. Hart | Stars: Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves | Release Date: November 13, 1992 | Runtime: 128 minutes | Review: IGN's Bram Stoker's Dracula review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon Prime Video and more
Francis Ford Coppola's "Bram Stoker's Dracula" is a visually stunning and emotionally rich adaptation of the classic novel. With Gary Oldman's commanding performance as Dracula and a sumptuous gothic aesthetic, the film is a landmark in vampire cinema. Its use of practical effects and deep emotional resonance make it the ultimate vampire movie.
See our list of the best Keanu Reeves movies for more of his work.
And that's our pick of the 25 best vampire movies of all time! What do you think of our picks? If we missed your favorite, let us know in the comments. You can also rank the best vampire films yourself using our tier list tool below!
### Rank The Best Vampire MoviesLooking for more vampire content? We've got you covered with the best vampire anime to watch and the classic top 10 vampire movie deaths.
New vampire movies are constantly coming out. Late 2024 saw the release of Robert Eggers' Nosferatu remake and we've got a few more vampire films to look forward to this year.
Here are the vampire movies coming down the pipeline:
Dracula: A Love Tale - July 30, 2025Devour - TBA 2025Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires - TBA 2025Brides - TBAFlesh of the Gods - TBA
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