Vampires have been represented with slight variations throughout cinematic history. In Interview with a Vampire (1994), we see vampires represented in Victorian style, pale and beautiful, portrayed by the only and only Brad Pitt. The film addresses some of the myths and characteristics of vampires, confirming that these particular vampires do sleep in coffins but aren’t afraid of crosses.

In Underworld (2003) we are presented with a group/coven of vampires who live together underground, notably there are some female vampires represented as well. Twilight (2008) presents a romance similar to Romeo and Juliet, a couple who can’t be together due to Edward’s vampirism. Twilight is the only film that I’ve seen prior to the screening and is the representation of vampires that I am most familiar with. The whole idea of vampires being these beautiful and desirable yet deadly creatures; forbidden fruit.

A representation of vampires that I found particularly interesting was the character of Spike in the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003. Initially Spike is just another vampire that Buffy has to kill, another monster and enemy. In an interview the actor who played Spike, James Marsters said that”Spike was supposed to be dirty and evil, punk rock, and then dead.” Apparently due to Spike’s like-ability the writers chose to bring back Spike where he soon became Buffy’s love interest. Buffy demonstrates the character of Spike as the stereotypical initial monster and scary vampire but then changes to the desirable and romantic representation.