Shadow of the Vampire (2000)

Shadow of the Vampire
JOIN NOW

low level violence, low level coarse language, drug use

Director: E. Elias Merhige
Actors: Willem Dafoe, Cary Elwes, John Malkovich, Udo Kier, Eddie Izzard, Catherine McCormack, Ronan Vibert, John Aden Gillet

Rapturously received at its world premiere in Directors' Fortnight at Cannes 2000, 'Shadow of the Vampire' is a witty, atmospheric and deliciously feverish tale inspired by the great German film director F.W.Murnau and the making of his unforgettable 'Nosferatu'.

Produced by Nicolas Cage, 'Shadow of the Vampire' deservedly received two Oscar nominations.

The film dares to suggest that Murnau made a Faustian pact with an actual vampire to play the title role in exchange for the neck of the leading lady. Anchored by an astounding performance by Willem Dafoe, the film's distinct, offbeat sensibility and its ability to steer a course between its slightly tongue in cheek premise and some genuinely disturbing moments make this one of the most talked about films of the year.

DVD
Status: Normal
Run time: 91mins
Origin: UNITED KINGDOM
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 Enhanced

Member Reviews (13)

13 Member Reviews
Rick
says
This would have been the most boring movie I have seen in the last 25 years.
Posted Wednesday, 2 May 2012 See my other reviews
BrianM
says
Fabulous film for cinema buffs and vampire freaks. Based on the premise that famouse silent director D W Mirneau(?) employed a real vampire, Max Schreck, in the silent classic "Nosferatu". John Malcovich and Willem Dafoe are brilliant. Watched it a second toime with the director's commentary-fascinating stuff.
Posted Monday, 14 November 2011 See my other reviews
Elspeth N.
says
Rather strange - quite witty and a good show of single minded obsession from Malkovich. The vampire was quite funny in a pathetic sort of way. Probably better for having seen Nosferatu.
Posted Tuesday, 11 August 2009 See my other reviews
Murray O.
says
pathetic, i felt cheated of time for watching
Posted Monday, 3 March 2008 See my other reviews
Matt C.
says
Great theme, great acting. My only reservation that when the theme is this good you always feel that they could have done a lot more with it.
Posted Tuesday, 28 November 2006 See my other reviews
Suzannah E.
says
For lovers of the original Nosferatu. Eine symphonie des grauens.
Posted Monday, 7 August 2006 See my other reviews
Chris R.
says
A good concept (that the genuis isn't necessarily a nice human being) and great acting, but the whole thing left me a bit cold. I didn't really engage with it, and I'm not sure why it was so highly acclaimed at the time. A pleasant enough diversion, however.
Posted Monday, 7 August 2006 See my other reviews
Daniel Midson-Short
says
A stylish movie, although perhaps a little obvious and surreal in some parts. The storyline is an interesting twist on reality, like many a 'based on a true story' films. Both John Malkovich and Willem Dafoe are well cast and bring that extra eerieness to the movie. If you like vampire/mystery movies, then check it out.
Posted Monday, 21 February 2005 See my other reviews
Carole Bois De Chesne
says
Posted Monday, 31 January 2005 See my other reviews
Corrine Pearce
says
A good idea but it takes itself a little too seriously. Still, good performances by all esp. Eddie Izzard.
Posted Thursday, 30 December 2004 See my other reviews
Maurice
says
Very quirky and off beat story, not a lot of suspense. Willem Dafoe great as a vampire.
Posted Tuesday, 15 June 2004 See my other reviews
Michelle Gibson
says
Nice little obsessive movie with a fantastic cast.
Posted Thursday, 6 May 2004 See my other reviews
Cinefile
says
Posted Thursday, 29 April 2004 See my other reviews