Above average acting for a Vampire slasher flick

Rating: 7/10 (3 March 2008)

I saw the movie with high expectations due to all the hoopla amongst fans of the vampire genre and horror movies overall. I found that I enjoyed the movie for what it was a little bit more during the 2nd viewing. I understood the ending a bit more, some people might not like the ending, but I'll leave it at that.
Acting by Hartnett and supporting cast was satisfying and enough for integrity's sake, but the true stars were the ghoulish and demonic looking vampires who showcase some super speed and agility in this film. The make-up is astonishing, and jaw dropping. I loved the rubber suits from Underworld, but this is just twisted stuff. There was good tension and the vampires made for an imposing looking bunch and even a bit disturbing for that matter. Gone is the eloquence and vanity and here you will see a whole new vampire, sort a vampire/zombie mix, but very intelligent and even philosophical at some times.
There are no cheap jumpy scenes here, and gore is held to a minimum until the end. Director David Slade did a decent job, nothing spectacular. He had big help from the big B movie budget and beautiful atmosphere created by the expansive set of a whole town. I just thought Slade used some western film noir and could have done a better job with some pacing elements of the plot.
The end will leave you with some questions and some will say you are left hanging at the end and it is likely that another sequel will be produced shortly since this film was successful in box office. There is no doubt that you will remember this film for a while after seeing it.