When I was a young Gravedigger, I remember vampires depicted on the screen and in novels as unclean, unholy beings on par with demons. In recent years, vampires have taken on this quirky, sexy appeal where characters in novels, film and television interacting with the vampire are not only unafraid by their unliving associate, but often lustful for their undead friend, so much so that they yearn to be changed.  Now again, superstition teaches that vampires were filthy, sick, demonics that stalked the night feeding and killing human beings. Just a few weeks ago, Bulgarian archeologists unearthed centuries-old skeletons with iron rods pinned down through their chests. This technique was performed on deceased who were likely (alcoholics and criminals) to become vampires. (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2012/jun/08/vampire-beliefs-skeletons-bulgaria)

Today, vampires in literature, film and television are teenage boys and girls that glitter and gush over their friends in the cafeteria in high school. Vampires are also southern royalty that were not only gifted with immortality, but coincidentally amazing looks. Remember my friends, vampirism was thought to be a sickness that brought one in-line with Satan. Lusting over a vampire in the eyes of a medieval believer, would almost be like a modern day person lusting over a serial killer thought to have cannibalized their victim at every opportunity – not necessarily arousing. Imagine if the characters in the Paranormal Activity series went out of their way to convince their violent demons to go out with them on a date, and then back home for some loving and even transformation? It doesn’t translate well there. So why then, and how then, did vampires become attractive hyper-stylized, over-sexualized beings?  When did vampires become soft and fluffy and sexy friends? I don’t know exactly where it happened. We can sit here and trace the literary and cinematic evolution of the vampire for some time, but instead, I would rather discuss some of my favorite modern vampires that exemplified the true terror of vampirism. Continue reading “I Am Legend” »