The Radleys review: A fresh and funny British spin on the vampire genre

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the supernatural realm of vampire lore, I must say that “The Radleys” has managed to breathe fresh life into this tired genre. The film, which premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival and is set to hit cinemas and Sky Cinema on October 18, is a delightful British take on the undead.

Imagine, as a fan, pondering over this intriguing scenario: If the seemingly ordinary, somewhat pale family residing next door were actually vampires? That’s the delightful premise behind Sky’s fresh British vampire film titled “The Radleys“. This captivating movie made its world debut at the Edinburgh International Film Festival.

Originally titled “The Radleys“, this novel brings Damian Lewis and Kelly Macdonald together as Peter and Helen. In their past, they were active vampires, but more than ten years ago, they chose to abstain from consuming human blood. They’ve also managed to hide their true nature from their children.

However, when their daughter Clara (Bo Bragason) is viciously assaulted on her way home from a party, an overwhelming need for vengeance takes over. She mercilessly slays her attacker. Consequently, Peter and Helen are faced with not only disposing of the body, but also having to explain their daughter’s violent actions to Clara and her brother Rowan (Harry Baxendale).

In the realm of vampire films, there are numerous options available, yet authentic homegrown interpretations of the genre are relatively scarce (it’s worth noting that we’re excluding Lesbian Vampire Killers from our count). _The Radleys_ aspires to break this pattern by blending traditional vampire genre elements with a unique British perspective.

As a devoted admirer, I’d describe this captivating film as a subtle, suburban tale woven around book clubs, hidden emotions, and those unforgettable neighborhood soirees that are equal parts charm and discomfort. Unlike traditional vampire narratives, this movie takes a more introspective approach, focusing on the heart of the story – the family at its core. While it maintains the classic allure of vampirism’s sensuality, it diverges from the usual bloodbaths, instead offering a profound exploration of familial bonds.

In one of the more impactful shifts from Haig’s book, Rowan is grappling not only with his vampire existence, but also his burgeoning affection for neighbor Evan (Jay Lycurgo). This new dimension to his emotions intensifies his sense of being an outcast and aids in his self-discovery. Harry Baxendale delivers a compelling portrayal as the socially awkward adolescent.

In the course of events leading up to the screen, Peter’s brother Will, who openly embraces his vampire identity, has essentially become Peter’s twin. This setup provides Damian Lewis with an opportunity to deliver a standout performance in a double role, particularly as the licentious Will. Moreover, it serves as a striking visual symbol of the divergent paths that Rowan and Clara are now navigating, each grappling with their own true nature.

We aim to avoid making “The Radleys” seem too serious since it’s a witty, dark satire that explores the humorous aspects of middle-class suburban existence. Damian Lewis and Kelly Macdonald showcase their exceptional comedic timing, masterfully depicting the suppressed emotions of being abstaining vampires while relishing in the tantalizing moments of indulgence.

Readers who are fond of “The Abstainer’s Handbook”, a pivotal book within “The Radleys”, might feel let down by the limited exploration it receives in the novel, which serves as a guide for newly turned vampires similar to the book for the deceased in “Beetlejuice”. Nevertheless, author Talitha Stevenson creatively pays tribute to this and other unique aspects of Matt Haig’s portrayal of vampires in an engaging manner.

What stands out most in “The Radleys” is that its skillful cast and thoughtful adaptations of the original tale make you empathize with this family as they face their bloody conclusion. Despite being vampires, they exhibit human-like emotions and fears that seem genuine and, to some extent, familiar.

Regarding whether one would choose to reside near them is a different question altogether, yet undeniably, you’d eagerly invite “The Radleys” into your home once it’s launched in October.

The Radleys is released in cinemas and on Sky Cinema on October 18.

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2024-08-21 02:19