“Lesbian Vampire Killers,” released in 2009, is a British horror-comedy film. It was directed by Phil Claydon and written by Stewart Williams and Paul Hupfield. The movie stars James Corden and Mathew Horne, who were famous for their work on the TV show “Gavin & Stacey.” This film, known for its tongue-in-cheek humor and campy take on the vampire genre, blends horror, comedy, and a touch of eroticism, making it a unique entry in the horror-comedy subgenre.
The story follows two hapless young men, Jimmy (Mathew Horne) and Fletch (James Corden), who decide to escape their problems by going on a hiking trip in the countryside. They end up in a remote village cursed by a vampire queen named Carmilla, who turns women into lesbian vampires upon reaching their 18th birthday. Unbeknownst to them, they arrive on the night of a ritual when the vampires are at their most powerful.
Upon arrival, they meet a group of attractive female students who are researching the local legends. Together, they discover the village’s dark secret and must fend off the vampire threat. With the help of a local priest, who reveals Jimmy’s ancestral connection to the village’s fate, they embark on a mission to stop the vampire queen and break the curse.
Cast and Characters
- James Corden as Fletch: The comedic relief, Fletch is lazy and sarcastic, providing much of the film’s humor.
- Mathew Horne as Jimmy: The reluctant hero, Jimmy’s character evolves from a heartbroken man to a courageous fighter.
- Paul McGann as The Vicar: A knowledgeable and brave local priest who aids Jimmy and Fletch.
- MyAnna Buring as Lotte: One of the female students, she becomes Jimmy’s love interest and plays a significant role in fighting the vampires.
- Silvia Colloca as Carmilla: The seductive and malevolent vampire queen, central to the film’s conflict.
“Lesbian Vampire Killers” is a parody that plays on many horror tropes, especially those from the vampire genre. The film’s title and premise are deliberately provocative, aiming to attract audiences with its blend of horror and humor. It takes inspiration from classic Hammer horror films, known for their gothic style and erotic undertones.
The film’s humor is a mix of slapstick, innuendo, and situational comedy, heavily relying on the chemistry between Corden and Horne. The special effects and makeup are purposefully over-the-top, adding to the film’s campy charm. The use of vibrant colors and exaggerated set designs further emphasizes its parodic nature.
One thing that really impressed me is the music, composed by Debbie Wiseman. The soundtrack brings the entire film to another level, making it seem more of a blockbuster than it may be. The lighting and visual effects are so good, that you would expect this film to have a higher budget than two million dollars. The entire cast and crew make the most of what they have, creating a quality and entertaining film.
“Lesbian Vampire Killers” received mixed reviews upon its release. Critics were divided on its humor and execution. Some praised it for its boldness and comedic moments, while others criticized it for being overly reliant on clichés and crude humor. Despite the mixed critical reception, the film has garnered a cult following, particularly among fans of British comedy and horror parodies.
The film’s release coincided with a period when horror-comedies were gaining popularity. While it may not have achieved mainstream success, “Lesbian Vampire Killers” contributed to the genre by pushing boundaries and experimenting with unconventional storytelling. The film also helped to cement James Corden’s status as a comedic actor, paving the way for his later success in international markets.
“Lesbian Vampire Killers” stands out as a bold and quirky addition to the horror-comedy genre. Its unique blend of humor, horror, and campy style makes it a memorable watch for those who appreciate films that don’t take themselves too seriously. While it may not be for everyone, its cult status ensures that it will continue to be a topic of discussion and enjoyment among fans of offbeat cinema.
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