by Peyton May 02,2025
Vampires have been a staple of horror cinema since the early days of Hollywood, evolving from Universal's iconic Dracula to the myriad of modern interpretations, including sparkling romantics, grotesque monsters, and even comedic roommates. These creatures of the night have continuously captured our imaginations, offering a rich tapestry of stories that span across different horror movements. Our mission is to showcase the top vampire movies throughout history, celebrating the best of the genre as it has evolved over time.
While we've curated a list of the 25 best vampire movies, there are always personal favorites that might not have made the cut but are still worthy of mention. Films such as "Suck," "The Transfiguration," "Byzantium," "Blood Red Sky," and "Blade" are notable entries that deserve recognition. We encourage you to share your own top picks in the comments section after exploring our selections below.
Now, let's delve into the fascinating world of vampire cinema. Here are the 25 best vampire movies of all time. For more horror thrills, don't miss our list of the best monster movies.
View 26 Images
25. Vampyr (1932)
Image credit: General Foreign Sales CorpDirector: Carl Theodor Dreyer | Writer: Carl Theodor Dreyer, Christen Jul | Stars: Julian West, Rena Mandel, Sybille Schmitz | Release Date: May 6, 1932 (Germany), August 14, 1934 (US) | Runtime: 75 minutes | Review: IGN's Vampyr review | Where to watch: Stream on Max and The Criterion Channel
Criterion has rightly hailed "Vampyr" as a horror classic. Danish filmmaker Carl Theodor Dreyer masterfully uses the limited technology of the era to craft a haunting black-and-white vampire mystery with a dreamlike quality. The film's use of shadows that move with a life of their own adds a ghostly dimension to the supernatural narrative. While it may not reach the fame of "Nosferatu," "Vampyr" showcases how vampire films can stand out through innovative visual techniques and ethereal storytelling, even in times of limited resources.
Image credit: Vertical EntertainmentDirector: Brad Michael Elmore | Writer: Brad Michael Elmore | Stars: Nicole Maines, Diana Hopper, Zolee Griggs | Release Date: April 24, 2020 | Runtime: 90 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Prime Video, Hoopla, or Freevee (with ads)
Brad Michael Elmore's "Bit" vibrantly captures the essence of Los Angeles with its neon-lit scenes and a compelling narrative. The film follows a transgender teenager, played by Nicole Maines, who joins a fierce all-female vampire crew led by the charismatic Diana Hopper. "Bit" stands out for its authentic portrayal of LA culture, stylish indie aesthetic, and a strong feminist message, all while delivering satisfying horror elements that appeal to a broad audience.
Image Credit: Focus FeaturesDirector: Robert Eggers | Writer: Robert Eggers | Stars: Bill Skarsgård, Lily-Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Willem Dafoe | Release Date: December 25, 2024 | Runtime: 132 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Peacock
Robert Eggers' passion project, "Nosferatu," is a visually stunning and atmospheric reimagining of the classic tale. The film's meticulous cinematography by Jarin Blaschke, which earned four Oscar nominations, reflects Eggers' dedication to creating an immersive and haunting experience. Bill Skarsgård's transformation into Count Orlok is both terrifying and mesmerizing, while Lily-Rose Depp's performance adds depth to the film's gothic allure. Eggers' interpretation of the vampire curse is both sublime and grotesque, setting a new standard for horror cinema.
Image credit: Walt Disney Studios Director: Craig Gillespie | Writer: Marti Noxon, Tom Holland | Stars: Anton Yelchin, Colin Farrell, David Tennant | Release Date: August 19, 2011 | Runtime: 106 minutes | Review: IGN's Fright Night review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon Prime Video
The 2011 remake of "Fright Night" earns its spot on this list for its enhanced intensity and brisk pacing. Colin Farrell's portrayal of the vampire Jerry Dandridge is menacing and captivating, while David Tennant brings a unique flair to the role of Peter Vincent. Although the original 1985 film has its merits, particularly in practical effects, the 2011 version excels in performance and modern storytelling, delivering a relentlessly predatory experience from start to finish.
Image credit: Scream FactoryDirector: Brian James O'Connell | Writer: Brian James O'Connell, Ryan Mitts, Dr. God | Stars: Fran Kranz, Pedro Pascal, Joey Kern | Release Date: September 4, 2015 | Runtime: 86 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Peacock, Pluto TV, and Prime Video
"Bloodsucking Bastards" cleverly uses vampirism as a metaphor for the soul-draining nature of corporate life. The film follows a sales office that transforms into a den of nocturnal sales agents, blending horror and comedy in a way that satirizes the monotony of office work. With a strong cast led by Fran Kranz and Pedro Pascal, the movie offers a humorous take on vampirism that resonates with fans of "Worksploitation" horror.
Image credit: Warner Bros. PicturesDirector: Joel Schumacher | Writer: Janice Fischer, James Jeremias, Jeffrey Boam | Stars: Kiefer Sutherland, Corey Haim, Dianne Wiest | Release Date: July 31, 1987 | Runtime: 97 minutes | Review: IGN's The Lost Boys review | Where to watch: Rent from Amazon Prime Video and other platforms
"The Lost Boys" is a quintessential '80s horror film that combines elements of youth culture with vampire lore. Director Joel Schumacher's extravagant vision, complete with iconic vampire makeup and memorable scenes, captures the essence of the era. The film's blend of humor, horror, and style makes it a standout, especially with Kiefer Sutherland's chilling portrayal of the vampire leader.
Image credit: Horsefly ProductionsDirector: Yannis Veslemes | Writer: Yannis Veslemes | Stars: Vangelis Mourikis, Alexia Kaltsiki, Daniel Bolda | Release Date: January 3, 2015 (Greece), December 19, 2017 (US) | Runtime: 73 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Screambox
"Norway" is an under-the-radar gem that blends '80s nightclub culture with vampirism in a unique Eurotrash style. Yannis Veslemes' film is a vibrant and chaotic exploration of a vampire who must dance to survive, weaving in elements of Nazi conspiracies and vibrant music video aesthetics. It's an unconventional yet captivating take on the genre that promises a visually and audibly rich experience.
Image credit: October FilmsDirector: Guillermo del Toro | Writer: Guillermo del Toro | Stars: Federico Luppi, Ron Perlman, Claudio Brook | Release Date: December 3, 1993 (Mexico), March 30, 1994 (US) | Runtime: 94 minutes | Review: IGN's Cronos review | Where to watch: Stream on Max, The Criterion Channel
Guillermo del Toro's "Cronos" is a unique take on vampirism, focusing on a golden scarab that grants eternal life. The film delves into themes of addiction and the human desire for immortality, featuring a young Ron Perlman and a compelling performance from Federico Luppi. Del Toro's signature style of humanizing monsters is evident here, setting the stage for his later works.
Image credit: New Line CinemaDirector: Guillermo del Toro | Writer: David S. Goyer | Stars: Wesley Snipes, Kris Kristofferson, Ron Perlman | Release Date: March 22, 2002 | Runtime: 117 minutes | Review: IGN's Blade 2 review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and other platforms
"Blade 2" surpasses its predecessor with Guillermo del Toro's distinctive directorial flair. The film enhances the vampire mythology with colorful landscapes and terrifying creatures, while Wesley Snipes delivers a powerful performance as the titular vampire hunter. Del Toro's love for practical effects and his ability to craft compelling horror narratives make "Blade 2" a standout sequel.
Image credit: IFC FilmsDirector: Jim Mickle | Writer: Jim Mickle, Nick Damici | Stars: Connor Paolo, Nick Damici, Kelly McGillis | Release Date: October 1, 2010 | Runtime: 98 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Kanopy and Prime Video
"Stake Land" offers a post-apocalyptic take on vampirism, presenting a world overrun by vampire hordes. The film follows a mentor-student relationship between a vampire hunter and his young charge as they navigate a dangerous landscape. Its intense atmosphere and relentless action make it a compelling addition to the genre, especially as a response to the romanticized vampire narratives of the time.
Image credit: Soda PicturesDirector: Jim Jarmusch | Writer: Jim Jarmusch | Stars: Tilda Swinton, Tom Hiddleston, Mia Wasikowska | Release Date: November 7, 2013 (Lithuania), April 11, 2014 (US) | Runtime: 123 minutes | Review: IGN's Only Lovers Left Alive review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and other platforms
Jim Jarmusch's "Only Lovers Left Alive" is a stylish and cool take on vampirism, blending indie rock vibes with a narrative about eternal love and existential dread. Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston deliver captivating performances as centuries-old vampires, while Jarmusch explores themes of addiction and human corruption. The film's unique blend of genres and its atmospheric storytelling make it a standout in the vampire canon.
Image credit: Sony PicturesDirector: David Slade | Writer: Steve Niles, Stuart Beattie, Brian Nelson | Stars: Josh Hartnett, Melissa George, Danny Huston | Release Date: October 19, 2007 | Runtime: 113 minutes | Review: IGN's 30 Days of Night review | Where to watch: Stream on Paramount+ Apple TV, rent on Amazon and most platforms
"30 Days of Night" is a gripping comic book adaptation that plunges viewers into a relentless vampire siege in an Alaskan town engulfed in darkness. Josh Hartnett and Melissa George lead a desperate fight for survival against Danny Huston's terrifying vampire leader. The film's intense focus on horror and its graphic portrayal of vampire violence make it a memorable entry in the genre.
Image credit: Kelly-Jordan EnterprisesDirector: Bill Gunn | Writer: Bill Gunn | Stars: Duane Jones, Marlene Clark, Bill Gunn | Release Date: April 20, 1973 | Runtime: 112 minutes | Where to watch: Stream on Kanopy
"Ganja & Hess" is a groundbreaking vampire film that explores themes of race and identity through a unique lens. Bill Gunn's experimental approach to storytelling, combined with powerful performances from Duane Jones and Marlene Clark, creates a haunting and thought-provoking narrative. The film's raw depiction of vampirism as a metaphor for societal entrapment and its focus on the Black experience make it a significant work in horror cinema.
Image credit: Warner Bros.Director: Neil Jordan | Writer: Anne Rice | Stars: Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Antonio Banderas | Release Date: November 11, 1994 | Runtime: 123 minutes | Review: IGN's Interview with the Vampire review | Where to watch: Rentable on Amazon and other platforms
"Interview With the Vampire" is a lush and decadent adaptation of Anne Rice's novel, featuring standout performances from Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, and Kirsten Dunst. The film's opulent settings and intricate character dynamics capture the allure and tragedy of vampirism, making it a beloved classic. Its bold exploration of themes and its lavish production design set it apart as a landmark in vampire cinema.
Anne Rice's "Interview with the Vampire" has also been adapted into a TV series in 2022, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic story.
Image credit: Miramax FilmsDirector: Robert Rodriguez | Writer: Quentin Tarantino | Stars: George Clooney, Juliette Lewis, Quentin Tarantino | Release Date: January 19, 1996 | Runtime: 108 minutes | Review: IGN's From Dusk Till Dawn review | Where to watch: Watch free (with ads) on Pluto TV, rentable from other platforms
"From Dusk Till Dawn" is a thrilling blend of crime and horror, seamlessly transitioning from a tense kidnapping plot to a wild vampire showdown. Directed by Robert Rodriguez and written by Quentin Tarantino, the film features memorable performances and inventive action sequences. Its mix of genres and its bold storytelling make it a cult favorite among vampire movie enthusiasts.
Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: Tod Browning, Karl Freund | Writer: Garrett Fort | Stars: Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler, David Manners | Release Date: February 14, 1931 | Runtime: 75 mins | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon Prime Video and other platforms
Tod Browning's "Dracula" is a foundational work in vampire cinema, introducing audiences to Bela Lugosi's iconic portrayal of the titular character. The film's atmospheric setting and gothic architecture create a haunting backdrop for the story, while Lugosi's mesmerizing performance sets the standard for vampire portrayals. Despite its age, "Dracula" remains a compelling and influential film.
See more of the best horror movies of all time.
Image credit: Kino Lorber/Vice FilmsDirector: Ana Lily Amirpour | Writer: Ana Lily Amirpour | Stars: Sheila Vand, Arash Marandi, Mozhan Marnò | Release Date: November 21, 2014 | Runtime: 101 minutes | Review: IGN's A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night review | Where to watch: Stream on Kanopy
Ana Lily Amirpour's "A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night" is a visually striking and thematically rich vampire film set in an Iranian ghost town. The black-and-white cinematography and Sheila Vand's captivating performance as the vampire protagonist create a haunting and stylish narrative. The film blends elements of horror, romance, and social commentary, making it a standout in modern vampire cinema.
Image credit: MGM/UA Entertainment Co.Director: Tony Scott | Writer: Ivan Davis, Michael Thomas | Stars: Catherine Deneuve, David Bowie, Susan Sarandon | Release Date: April 29, 1983 | Runtime: 97 minutes | Review: IGN's The Hunger review | Where to watch: Rent Amazon and more
"The Hunger" is a seductive and stylish vampire film that blends horror with elements of eroticism. Directed by Tony Scott and starring Catherine Deneuve, David Bowie, and Susan Sarandon, the film explores themes of eternal life and the consequences of immortality. Its lush visuals and compelling performances make it a memorable entry in the genre.
Image credit: Unison/PaladinDirector: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi | Writer: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi | Stars: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi, Cori Gonzalez-Macuer | Release Date: June 19, 2014 (NZ), February 13, 2015 (US) | Runtime: 86 minutes | Review: IGN's What We Do in the Shadows review | Where to watch: Rent from Apple TV and more
"What We Do in the Shadows" is a hilarious mockumentary that offers a fresh and comedic take on vampire lore. Directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, the film follows a group of vampires navigating modern life with humor and absurdity. Its clever writing and memorable characters make it a standout in both horror and comedy genres.
Make sure to check out the spin-off "What We Do in the Shadows" TV show for even more laughs.
Image credit: Sandrew MetronomeDirector: Tomas Alfredson | Writer: John Ajvide Lindqvist | Stars: Kåre Hedebrant, Lina Leandersson, Per Ragnar | Release Date: October 24, 2008 | Runtime: 114 mins | Review: IGN's Let the Right One In review | Where to watch: Stream on FuboTV and Hoopla
"Let the Right One In" is a poignant and haunting vampire film that focuses on the bond between two outcast children. Directed by Tomas Alfredson and based on the novel by John Ajvide Lindqvist, the film explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and survival. Its sensitive storytelling and emotional depth make it a standout in the genre.
Image credit: De Laurentiis Entertainment GroupDirector: Kathryn Bigelow | Writer: Eric Red, Kathryn Bigelow | Stars: Adrian Pasdar, Jenny Wright, Bill Paxton | Release Date: October 2, 1987 | Runtime: 94 minutes | Review: IGN's Near Dark review | Where to watch: Not available to stream
"Near Dark" is an unconventional vampire western that blends elements of horror and action. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, the film follows a young man drawn into a group of nomadic vampires. Its gritty atmosphere and intense performances make it a unique and compelling entry in vampire cinema.
Image credit: Entertainment OneDirector: Derek Lee, Clif Prowse | Writer: | Stars: Derek Lee, Clif Prowse, Baya Rehaz | Release Date: April 4, 2014 | Runtime: 85 minutes | Review: IGN's Afflicted review | Where to watch: Rent from Apple TV
"Afflicted" is an innovative found footage vampire film that blends horror with elements of action and adventure. Directed by Derek Lee and Clif Prowse, the film follows a man documenting his transformation into a vampire. Its unique perspective and intense storytelling make it a standout in the genre.
Image credit: Film Arts GuildDirector: F. W. Murnau | Writer: Henrik Galeen | Stars: Max Shcreck, Alexander Granach, Gustav von Wangenheim | Release Date: March 4, 1922 (Germany), 1929 (US) | Runtime: 94 mins | Where to watch: Stream on Prime Video, Screambox, Kanopy, and more
"Nosferatu" is a silent horror classic that remains influential a century later. Directed by F. W. Murnau and featuring Max Schreck's iconic performance as Count Orlok, the film's atmospheric visuals and haunting narrative set the standard for vampire cinema. Its enduring impact and historical significance make it a must-watch.
Image credit: Focus FeaturesDirector: Park Chan-wook | Writer: Park Chan-wook, Jeong Seo-kyeong | Stars: Song Kang-ho, Kim Ok-bin, Seo Dong-soo | Release Date: April 30, 2009 | Runtime: 134 minutes | Review: IGN's Thirst review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and more
"Thirst" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning vampire film from director Park Chan-wook. The film explores themes of desire, morality, and the consequences of immortality through the story of a priest turned vampire. Its unique narrative and striking visuals make it a standout in the genre.
Image credit: Columbia PicturesDirector: Francis Ford Coppola | Writer: James V. Hart | Stars: Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves | Release Date: November 13, 1992 | Runtime: 128 minutes | Review: IGN's Bram Stoker's Dracula review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon Prime Video and more
Francis Ford Coppola's "Bram Stoker's Dracula" is a visually opulent and emotionally charged adaptation of the classic novel. The film's use of practical effects and its lush production design create a captivating and immersive experience. Gary Oldman's commanding performance as Dracula and the film's bold storytelling make it a definitive work in vampire cinema.
See our list of the best Keanu Reeves movies for more of his work.
And that's our pick of the 25 best vampire movies of all time! What do you think of our picks? If we missed your favorite, let us know in the comments. You can also rank the best vampire films yourself using our tier list tool below!
### Rank The Best Vampire MoviesLooking for more vampire content? We've got you covered with the best vampire anime to watch and the classic top 10 vampire movie deaths.
New vampire movies are constantly coming out. Late 2024 saw the release of Robert Eggers' Nosferatu remake, and we've got a few more vampire films to look forward to this year.
Here are the vampire movies coming down the pipeline:
Dracula: A Love Tale - July 30, 2025Devour - TBA 2025Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires - TBA 2025Brides - TBAFlesh of the Gods - TBA
Girls Frontline 2: Exilium Global Website Goes Live, Along With Its Socials!
Marvel Rivals: Understanding Bussing and Catching It
New Game Plus in Assassin's Creed Shadows: Confirmed?
Top Skills to Prioritize for Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Pokemon GO Leak Teases New Adventure Effects
Assassin’s Creed Shadows Movements Reviewed by Two Parkour Athletes
Amazon Music Unlimited: Free 3-Month Trial Available
Death Stranding 2 Release Date Unveiled in Massive Trailer
Category 
