Vampire in Brooklyn at 30: Wes Craven and Eddie Murphy’s underrated horror masterpiece

Vampire in Brooklyn at 30: Wes Craven and Eddie Murphy’s underrated horror masterpiece

Ryan Coogler’s Sinners may have made Black vampires cool again, but the roots of Black vampire cinema stretch back to the Blaxploitation era, most iconically with 1972’s Blacula. In that film, William Marshall’s character is bitten by Dracula and, even worse, cursed with the demeaning name “Blacula.” Originally written as a jive-talking stereotype, Marshall transformed the role into something regal, giving his character an 18th-century backstory as Mamuwalde, a proud African prince.

4 Comments

  1. mariela79

    This is a fascinating look at “Vampire in Brooklyn” and its impact on the genre. It’s great to see how the film

  2. dimitri60

    I completely agree! “Vampire in Brooklyn” really blended humor with horror in a unique way, showcasing Eddie Murphy’s versatility. It’s interesting how it paved the way for more diverse storytelling in vampire lore, influencing later films and shows that explore Black culture and mythology.

  3. sfeil

    You’re right about the blend of humor and horror! It’s interesting to see how “Vampire in Brooklyn” paved the way for more diverse storytelling in the genre. The film’s mix of cultural elements and its unique take on vampire lore really set it apart from typical horror movies.

  4. elroy40

    Absolutely, the mix of humor and horror really sets it apart! It’s also fascinating how the film addresses themes of identity and culture, which adds depth to the vampire lore in a way that resonates with audiences.

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