Near Dark:
Director: Kathryn Bigelow
Year: 1987
Rated: R
Genre: Horror
Length: 1 hour 34 minutes
Country of Origin: United States
Language: English
Streaming on: This sucks. The film is currently unavailable to stream. It’s also difficult to find a decent upload on YouTube. DVD’s are available but Used copies may be the only option for some choices.
Summarizing the film
Next on Day 6 of 31 Days of Horror Movie Challenge is Kathryn Bigelow’s 1987 gem, Near Dark. A mid-western farm boy’s life takes a dark turn when he encounters a bewitching girl, only to discover she belongs to a band of southern vampires cruising the highways in stolen cars. To join their ranks, he undergoes a blood-soaked initiation involving a brutal assault on a local bar.
A Modern Vampire Classic Of Its Time
Heralded as one of the finest modern vampire films, Near Dark is a stylish, humorous, and adventurous cult classic. The narrative unfolds as a young cowboy, bitten by a beautiful stranger, becomes entangled with a nomadic family of blood-suckers roving the American heartland.
Kathryn Bigelow’s Cinematic Mastery
Despite being overshadowed by The Lost Boys, Near Dark captivates horror fanatics with its juicy tale of human nature versus savage lust. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, in her solo debut, the film skillfully weaves an old-fashioned struggle into a modernist framework, avoiding the clichés of the vampire genre. Bigelow’s direction adds scenic beauty, intense action, and occasional gore, while Tangerine Dream’s music score enhances the cinematic experience.
Standout Performances
The cast shines with Adrian Pasdar delivering a believable performance as the once-human hero. Lance Henriksen authentically portrays the vampiric band’s leader, but it’s Bill Paxton who steals scenes with both menace and cheeky humor. The infamous bar sequence stands out as a favorite among fans, accentuated by great makeup FX.
Cult Following
Despite a modest box office performance, Near Dark garnered positive reviews and has since achieved cult status. Its legacy endures as a favorite of the genre, offering a unique blend of horror and dark humor. The film’s entertainment value solidifies its place as a legendary horror vampire film from the 80s, which is why it’s a Day 6 of 31 Days Of Horror Movie Challenge: Bloodsucking Vampires must see.Â