what we do in the shadows movie

 

What We Do in the Shadows

What We Do in the Shadows (2014) is a mockumentary comedy-horror film that redefines the vampire genre by blending traditional horror elements with absurd humour. Written and directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, this New Zealand-based film has earned a cult following and even inspired a popular television series. The movie showcases a fresh, comedic perspective on vampire lore while cleverly satirising modern society.

Plot Summary

Set in Wellington, New Zealand, What We Do in the Shadows follows a documentary crew who have been granted access to film the daily (or rather, nightly) lives of four vampire flatmates. The main characters—Viago, Vladislav, Deacon, and Petyr—are centuries-old vampires struggling to adapt to the modern world.

• Viago (Taika Waititi): A 379-year-old dandy who maintains a polite and refined demeanor.

• Vladislav (Jemaine Clement): An 862-year-old former tyrant known as "Vladislav the Poker," a parody of Vlad the Impaler.

• Deacon (Jonathan Brugh): A 183-year-old rebel who sees himself as the "bad boy" of the group.

• Petyr (Ben Fransham): An 8,000-year-old Nosferatu-style vampire who rarely speaks but is the most terrifying of them all.

The story revolves around their mundane yet bizarre attempts to integrate into human society, navigate flatmate squabbles, and abide by vampire traditions. Things take an unexpected turn when Petyr turns a local man, Nick (Cori Gonzalez-Macuer), into a vampire. Unlike the others, Nick is reckless and enjoys bragging about his new status, much to the dismay of his more traditional housemates. He also introduces them to his human friend, Stu (Stu Rutherford), a mild-mannered IT technician whom the vampires grow fond of.

Throughout the film, the vampires clash with Wellington’s supernatural underworld, including rival werewolves (led by Rhys Darby as Anton), and face challenges such as getting into nightclubs (they need to be invited in) and dealing with modern technology. The climax revolves around the annual "Unholy Masquerade," a gathering of supernatural creatures, where tensions arise after Nick foolishly reveals that Stu is human.

Themes and Satire

Deconstructing the Vampire Mythos

What We Do in the Shadows cleverly dismantles traditional vampire tropes. Instead of the elegant and mysterious creatures of horror films, the vampires are awkward and incompetent at times. They struggle with everyday tasks like doing dishes, dressing themselves properly, and even getting into clubs. The film humorously highlights the absurdity of vampire life, making them relatable despite their supernatural nature.

Flatmate Comedy and Social Commentary

At its core, the film is a flatmate comedy. It explores the struggles of cohabitation—chore disputes, personality clashes, and social obligations. The dynamic between the vampires reflects common roommate conflicts, just exaggerated through their supernatural abilities. The film also touches on themes of loneliness and the passage of time, as each vampire reminisces about their past lives and lost loves.

Satirical Look at Supernatural Beings in the Modern World

By placing ancient beings in a contemporary setting, the film pokes fun at how outdated traditions clash with modern society. The vampires’ struggle with technology, their outdated fashion sense, and their confusion about human customs make for comedic gold. The werewolves, who try to maintain self-control and adhere to a strict code of conduct, provide a hilarious contrast to the messy, self-indulgent vampires.

Impact and Legacy

Cult Following and Critical Acclaim

What We Do in the Shadows received widespread acclaim for its originality, humour, and performances. Critics praised its fresh take on the vampire genre and its effective blend of horror and comedy. The film has since become a cult classic, beloved for its quotable lines, memorable characters, and innovative storytelling.

Spin-offs and Television Adaptation

The success of the film led to a television adaptation of the same name, premiering in 2019. The show, created by Jemaine Clement, follows a different group of vampires living in Staten Island, expanding on the original film’s premise while introducing new characters and storylines. Additionally, a spin-off series, Wellington Paranormal, follows two bumbling police officers dealing with supernatural occurrences in Wellington.

Why What We Do in the Shadows Stands Out

• Unique Mockumentary Format: The film’s documentary style allows for comedic improvisation and naturalistic performances.

• Brilliant Performances: Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement lead a cast that delivers impeccable comedic timing.

• Smart Writing and Subtle Social Commentary: The film blends humour with deeper themes of isolation, nostalgia, and belonging.

• Creative World-Building: The supernatural elements feel fresh and unique, making the film an immersive experience.

Conclusion

What We Do in the Shadows is a comedic masterpiece that redefines vampire cinema. With its witty script, endearing characters, and perfect blend of horror and humour, it has solidified its place as one of the best modern comedies. Whether you’re a fan of vampires, mockumentaries, or just love a good laugh, this film is a must-watch. Its legacy continues to grow through its spin-offs, proving that even centuries-old vampires can find new life in the modern world.