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Did you know that Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Antonio Banderas, and Kirsten Dunst were all Vampires in a film in 1994? I did not either, but I am glad I know now! Banderas turned Cruise, who turned Pitt, who turned Dunst. Pitt’s character Louis is being interviewed and narrates his path of discovery to the origin of vampires. Dunst was just twelve when she portrayed Claudia, who is forced to remain twelve years old for her entire life.
Vampires have always had a sexual quality to them and this film does not disappoint, especially if you want to see multiple homo-erotic scenes with 1990’s Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise. The plot moves along at a reasonable pace for just over two hours. The film is also self-contained with few opportunities for multiple films. I think the film took itself more seriously than any audience would, so there is both intentional and unintentional comedy, though it is hard to make a serious vampire film.
There is not a lot to say about any deeper meaning in this film. One reading could be looking for a sense of community, which could be extended to a queer reading with all the homo-eroticism. That could be a fun exploration with some of the accusations toward Cruise that he has made homophobic comments in the past. Beyond that, this was an enjoyable, over the top, film with a cast you will recognize from a slew of much better films. You may forget most of the film shortly after seeing it, but you will not forget how over-the-top and self-serious it was for all those involved.