The ultimate vampire movie

Rating: 9/10 (7 October 2010)

I first watched Interview with the Vampire some years ago and have seen it again recently. I find it a very gripping and atmospheric film with a haunting music score and an excellent script. All the actors give fine performances. I have never been a fan of Tom Cruise, but think his betrayal of Lestat was brilliant, by far the best I have ever seen him. Brad Pitt as Louis, while good, did irritate occasionally, for example, in his final scene with Armand his continuous monotone became wearisome. Kirsten Dunst also put in an exceptional performance as Claudia the child vampire.
Although I have never read the book on which the film was based, I understand the portrayal of Armand by Antonio Banderas was contrary to his description in the book. I have read however, that the director Neil Jordan stated that this was because of the sexual undertones between Louis and Armand. With there already being undertones between Louis and Claudia, Jordan felt that an older Armand would be preferable. That having been said I think that Banderas turned in a captivating performance and truly conveyed a vampire that was "powerful, beautiful and without regret".
You can keep the Twilights and New Moons etc. – this is THE vampire movie!