Movie Overview
What We Do in the Shadows is a 2014 comedy-horror mockumentary that reimagines vampire mythology with a sharp, satirical twist. Directed and co-written by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, the film presents Viago (Waititi), Deacon (Clement), and Vladislav (Jonny Brugh) as centuries-old vampires sharing a flat in modern-day Wellington, New Zealand. Their undead existence is plagued by mundane challenges: paying rent, updating the chore wheel, struggling to get into nightclubs, and overcoming flatmate conflicts—all while dodging the deadly glow of natural light. The mockumentary format lends an intimate, hilarious authenticity to their supernatural lives, blending deadpan humor with genuine horror elements. Clement and Waititi, known for their work on Flight of the Conchords and Thor: Ragnarok respectively, bring their signature wit to every scene, while Brugh’s performance as the flamboyant Vladislav adds memorable comic relief. The film explores themes of adaptation, friendship, and the absurdity of immortal life in a rapidly changing world, all delivered with a tone that balances dark comedy with heartfelt moments. Upon release, What We Do in the Shadows earned widespread critical acclaim, boasting a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a 76/100 Metascore, and a 7.6/10 IMDb rating. It has garnered 26 wins and 18 nominations, including awards for best comedy and best independent film. This R-rated gem is a must-watch for fans of clever horror-comedy and is available to stream online via Netflix. For a fresh, laugh-out-loud take on vampire lore, watch What We Do in the Shadows today.
