Not your typical vampire horror filmand that's a good thing

Rating: 8/10 (26 January 2009)

30 DAYS OF NIGHT is for those who have become fed-up of Hollywood's tendency to cast vampires as pretty-boy, emo, tortured soul types with whom the audience is supposed to sympathise. The 'vampires' in 30 DAYS OF NIGHT (at least we are made to assume that they are vampires) are nowhere near worthy of sympathy, and are some of the most horrific and frightening monsters seen on film in recent years.
The movie is continually adrenaline-filled, and is paced well in order to maintain the tension. The story itself is a decent one, and while maintaining the requisite visceral appeal of a film of this nature, begs a critical question at its core: "How much would one sacrifice to save the one(s) he love(s)?" This question becomes apparent and palpable during the last hour or so of the Motion Picture, leading to the chilling climax, which blends together aspects of beauty and of horror.
The cast is adequate, and Josh Hartnett manages to shine in his protagonist hero role. Not a classic by any stretch of the imagination, but it remains to be seen whether this film will withstand the test of time 8/10. A solid 3 stars (out of 4). May garner a place in my Honourable Mention list. David Slade's follow-up to the tasteless HARD CANDY is quite recommended.