New faces gave it their all in this cheap horror/scifi film. You won't recognize a single cast member, but sometimes it's better that way. The special affects were below average, again because of the budget, but the story was superb, and my interest never wavered once the film picked up. A lot better than most 'filmed in my mother's basement' trash that seems to litter movie rental shelves. You can do far worse than this film, rent but worth a purchase.
22 Reviews
Could be worse...
natashabowiepinky17 January 2013
Recently, I've seen a lot of film that range from excellent to just plain awful. This low-low-low-budget effort (Don't deny it) about vampires falls squarely between these two stools. There are times, especially during the first half, that the non-stop jibber jabber gets so boring you want to turn it off. Plus, the miniature bows that the good guys carry around look like they were assembled from a Kinder Surprise egg. However, at least it has an understandable plot, some mildly tense scenes and a climax which is actually quite satisfying. It's also quaint too, to see the size of mobile phones only 11 years ago compared to today. How far we've come..
If you like Vampire type things, you should probably look for this and rent it before you buy
igor-8624 October 2003
If you are into "Buffy" or "Angel" or any of the bad guy vs. good guy vampire type shows, you are sure to get a kick out of this movie. The theme we seem to have going in this movie is the guy turned vampire but wants to do good instead of bad. Eventually, Kaitlin Moore (Played by: Jacqueline Anderson) from the "good team" gets a soft spot for Christian Grey; the good Vampire (played by: Matthew Thomas) always keeping him one step ahead of the NCA and ends up wanting to become a vampire after finding out about her health situation.
The Special effects are kind of fun, and the setting is mostly dark, dim lit, or just plain night, for obvious reasons. There are things that will make you cringe, laugh, and roll your eyes. However there is not much in the way of dead silence, there is always "effect music" in the background which always helps.
If you like Vampire type things, you should probably look for this and rent it before you buy. 4 out of 5 stars from Igor.
The Special effects are kind of fun, and the setting is mostly dark, dim lit, or just plain night, for obvious reasons. There are things that will make you cringe, laugh, and roll your eyes. However there is not much in the way of dead silence, there is always "effect music" in the background which always helps.
If you like Vampire type things, you should probably look for this and rent it before you buy. 4 out of 5 stars from Igor.
Good B-Movie
JoeB13117 April 2008
This movie, although it moved slow in parts and the acting was marginal, had a lot to redeem it. If they made it with a budget and people who could act, it might be pretty good.
The story is that a government agency is hunting down vampires, while the lead vampire takes control of a Scientology-type church. An agency operative has identified a 'good' vampire who only takes enough blood to live. She concludes he's on their side, a claim rejected by the agency head. She teams up with the good vampire, on the promise he'll turn her before she dies of cancer.
Overall, not a bad little movie made for all of $10.53.
The story is that a government agency is hunting down vampires, while the lead vampire takes control of a Scientology-type church. An agency operative has identified a 'good' vampire who only takes enough blood to live. She concludes he's on their side, a claim rejected by the agency head. She teams up with the good vampire, on the promise he'll turn her before she dies of cancer.
Overall, not a bad little movie made for all of $10.53.
UNIQUE LOW-BUDG VAMPIRE FLICK DEFINITELY WORTH A LOOK
A-Frayn8 January 2004
This is one of the more unusual entries I've seen in the low budget horror DTV market. Instead of going the usual route of near pornographic violence,the writer/director takes the virtually untrammeled path of character driven drama. What a concept!
A good way to describe it would be- Dark Shadows meets Dracula AD 1972: The Necromorph Control Agency (sort of an anti-vampire Swat team) wages war against the urban undead, their principle target being the followers of the evil Malgard -an ancient vampire set on ruling the world. Christian is a vampire hunter tragically turned vampire, who wrestles with his blood hunger, and walks the night world alone, an outcast from both the living and the undead. Kaitlin is the NCA cop who accidentally discovers Cristian during her investigative work . One day Kaitlin gets some information that compels her out into the night, on her own, with the dangerous intent of finding this lone vampire...
The principal leads are attractive, and by and large good to adequate in their roles. There are plenty of places where it would be easy for an inexperienced actor to fall flat on his or her face, and the actors playing Christian and Kaitlin come through in convincing form. Other secondary characters are also well handled.The film is also nicely paced and moves quickly.
The scene I was most impressed with was the NCA team's raid on a Malgard compound. Despite a 2 dollar budget, this scene is convincingly handled, and tersely edited. It reminds me of a bit of George Romero, and also, some of the fight action scenes in Peter Jackson's earlier efforts (such as Bad Taste) that showed the promise of that director, in spite of budget limitations.
If you're a horror/vampire film buff, do yourself a favor, and check this film out.
A good way to describe it would be- Dark Shadows meets Dracula AD 1972: The Necromorph Control Agency (sort of an anti-vampire Swat team) wages war against the urban undead, their principle target being the followers of the evil Malgard -an ancient vampire set on ruling the world. Christian is a vampire hunter tragically turned vampire, who wrestles with his blood hunger, and walks the night world alone, an outcast from both the living and the undead. Kaitlin is the NCA cop who accidentally discovers Cristian during her investigative work . One day Kaitlin gets some information that compels her out into the night, on her own, with the dangerous intent of finding this lone vampire...
The principal leads are attractive, and by and large good to adequate in their roles. There are plenty of places where it would be easy for an inexperienced actor to fall flat on his or her face, and the actors playing Christian and Kaitlin come through in convincing form. Other secondary characters are also well handled.The film is also nicely paced and moves quickly.
The scene I was most impressed with was the NCA team's raid on a Malgard compound. Despite a 2 dollar budget, this scene is convincingly handled, and tersely edited. It reminds me of a bit of George Romero, and also, some of the fight action scenes in Peter Jackson's earlier efforts (such as Bad Taste) that showed the promise of that director, in spite of budget limitations.
If you're a horror/vampire film buff, do yourself a favor, and check this film out.
Fangtastic!
masibindi16 November 2003
Craving a 'tasteful' vampire movie? A talented to-die-for cast that chews up the spooky scenery will satisfy your yearning for an exciting, original and poignant film.
An exquisite, fresh treatment of the genre shot from a tight script features polished performances, superlative direction, world-class production values, seamless editing, atmospheric locales, a scary score, delicious camera angles, chemistry between actors and an exciting denouement.
An exquisite, fresh treatment of the genre shot from a tight script features polished performances, superlative direction, world-class production values, seamless editing, atmospheric locales, a scary score, delicious camera angles, chemistry between actors and an exciting denouement.
low budget but good acting and story
traskathand11 December 2003
This film has a really low budget look that might hurt its chances of reaching a big audience which is too bad because this is mostly a pretty good job.Especially good is the storyline which works in some variations on vampire themes while still staying pretty faithful to the spirit of classic vampire movies.I would say the script for this one is the best of any of the low budget vampire films I've seen lately. And most of the actors here are much better than the actors you usually see in these types of low budget movies.This is a film which if you're in the right mood can be very enjoyable for its eerie atmosphere and the underlying romantic quality.I don't know how well a movie like this will stand the test of time but I think that, with its focus on interesting characters and plot, it'll probably hold up better in the long run than most of the recent special effects-filled Hollywood vampire movies, which look good now but don't offer much for the head or heart.So I give Sleepless Nights *** out of ****, mostly for its script, actors and good intentions.
Interesting and effective
Desigroup26 November 2003
Sleepless Nights manages to remain interesting and effective by highlighting its talented cast, which is its strongest asset. The film, for the most part, steers clear of the sort of elaborate special effects (and action sequences) that seem to be de rigeur for this type of film. The script, by director William Hopkins, is straightforward and involving, and his direction serviceable enough, favoring cuts between static shots over elaborate camera movement. I think the biggest compliment I can pay this film is that it manages to avoid looking like another Blade/Underworld rip-off. Though its old-fashioned approach to the genre may make it boring to those brought up on such action fare as the Blade films, it should find a ready audience among those partial to older vampire films and television series like Dark Shadows. With most of the film taking place at night and in candlelit rooms, the film has a dark, creepy atmosphere which, if you like that sort of thing, almost compensates for the absence of any real scares (but then again, when was the last time you saw a vampire movie that was really scary??)
It's easy to imagine this little gem becoming a favorite of vampire fans in years to come. In the long annals of vampire movie history, it should definitely qualify for an honorable mention.
It's easy to imagine this little gem becoming a favorite of vampire fans in years to come. In the long annals of vampire movie history, it should definitely qualify for an honorable mention.
Better then average
prty1knoby31 March 2004
This movie was better then most independent horror films I've seen. It has a good and believable story, well filmed. The low budget had an impact, especially on the special effects, but it is still worth viewing. The characters are well performed and believable. You can see the producers certainly tried to do a better then average job on this flick and they succeeded. Not only is there typical vampire action, but the story and personal conflicts makes us feel for the characters. The ending leaves us sad and happy at the same time. I would love to see a sequel. A treat in this type of film. Well done to the writer and director. Vampire lovers will enjoy this one.
Dark and sultry
sredzins7 April 2004
It's refreshing to see a low-budget movie achieve such a realistic and original story line, definitely strays from the "typical" vampire movie. The lighting is dark and sultry like a well polished wine and the fight scenes were expertly choreographed. I would not classify this a your typical "B" movie. I have always enjoyed vampire movies and I rate Sleepless Nights next to one of my favorites, Near Dark. This movie goes to show that you don't need a 20 million dollar actor to carry the movie. I have added this to my list of movies that I own. Another combination with this cast and crew would be a sure hit.
WORTH A LOOK
joseph22625 December 2003
SN uses kind of a low key, subtle approach to the vampire/horror thing. More talk than actions. Its pretty well written though so it's not dumb and annoying like so many cheap horror movies. Has an Anne Rice feel to it, like what she might come up with if she was making a pilot for a tv show. If you watch alot of these things like I do, you appreciate a good story and this one has one. Even though its pretty obviously a cheap flick, it has a pretty "pro" look to it. Could have been a "made for TV" thing. Its sort of on that level. Not sure why there hasnt been any publicity about this movie. I'm into horror and vampire stuff but I heard zero about this until I saw it at the video store. Maybe the budget was so low they couldnt afford a publicity department :) It would probably do well if the vampire movie fans knew it was out there though. I enjoyed it.
Better than expected for a low-budget Vampire movie.
Katatonia13 November 2003
Warning: Spoilers
=========== POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD ========== I'd seen a trailer for Sleepless Nights before renting it, and I wasn't too impressed with the trailer of the film at all. I really wasn't expecting too much from this movie as a result. It turned out to be much better than I had initially expected for a Vampire movie.
The best thing is a plot structure that is well developed and actually half believable. The characters are much more likable than many of the really disappointing Vampire "Direct-To-Video" movies I've rented lately. There are good and evil Vampires used throughout the movie complementing the dual human characters as well, with plot ties to the ancient order of the Templar Knights. You won't see any generic staple Crosses, Garlic or Holy Water used against the creatures of the night in this one.
Sleepless Nights has a dark atmosphere throughout the movie that is quite effective and brooding. It appeared to have been shot on either 16mm film or Digital Video, or both perhaps. The clarity of the picture (on DVD at least) could have been better at times, but it almost adds to the overall oppressive feel of the movie.
Sleepless Nights was obviously shot on a low-budget, but it still looks pretty good as far as indie films are concerned. It uses many locations and sets which make it appear as a bigger picture than it actually is. The acting is better than most movies of the same caliber. CGI effects are used only a few times during the film.
Don't expect a movie with a major Hollywood budget and you'll probably enjoy this one. I would definitely recommend Sleepless Nights to fans of the genre.
The best thing is a plot structure that is well developed and actually half believable. The characters are much more likable than many of the really disappointing Vampire "Direct-To-Video" movies I've rented lately. There are good and evil Vampires used throughout the movie complementing the dual human characters as well, with plot ties to the ancient order of the Templar Knights. You won't see any generic staple Crosses, Garlic or Holy Water used against the creatures of the night in this one.
Sleepless Nights has a dark atmosphere throughout the movie that is quite effective and brooding. It appeared to have been shot on either 16mm film or Digital Video, or both perhaps. The clarity of the picture (on DVD at least) could have been better at times, but it almost adds to the overall oppressive feel of the movie.
Sleepless Nights was obviously shot on a low-budget, but it still looks pretty good as far as indie films are concerned. It uses many locations and sets which make it appear as a bigger picture than it actually is. The acting is better than most movies of the same caliber. CGI effects are used only a few times during the film.
Don't expect a movie with a major Hollywood budget and you'll probably enjoy this one. I would definitely recommend Sleepless Nights to fans of the genre.
Dark Shadows and Ann Rice fans will probably like this one.
kaleoromualdo13 August 2003
I got this movie on VHS after reading the Tim Lucas review in Video Watchdog and I got to admit, I got nostalgic watching it. Not just for the old TV soap opera Dark Shadows, which is its main inspiration, but also for all those low budget horror films that no one seems to be making anymore. Here you have a film which doesn't look like it cost anything to make but somehow it's involving and fun. You would think by now there wouldn't be anything new to say about vampires, but somehow they managed to come up with some interesting twists. They borrow from every vampire movie or book there ever was, swiping from Richard Matheson's book, "I Am Legend," Hammer vampire films, "Dark Shadows," of course, Anne Rice books, even Forrest J. Ackerman's old "Vampirella" comics. But a unique spin is put on all of it and it's nice to see a movie like this that actually has some original ideas. Though the film isn't that long, it drags in spots, getting weighed down with alot of talk at times. But overall it's easy to watch and enjoyable with a very satisfying and touching end scene. The door is left open for sequels and I wouldn't mind seeing these characters again. So I guess I'm glad I took Tim Lucas' advice and bought this film. I would recommend it to other vampire film fans especially "Dark Shadows" fans. According to the Video Watchdog review, a DVD version is supposed to come out soon, which would be nice to see especially if it has some extras.
Horror Rules!!!
vti6 November 2003
The movie was well written, produced and most of the acting more than satisfactory. I enjoy vampire movies and especially liked the twists and turns that this movie presented. Appreciated the story line and felt that there was a real continuity from beginning to end. With a hint of sexuality and the lack of explicit sex (T&A..cheap grab for movie watchers)it kept you from being deterred from the story and only seemed to add to the suspense. The action scenes were well directed and most of the effects were pulled off well. This was an enjoyable independent horror flick that deserves credit and will hopefully be given the chance by other horror fans to be viewed and enjoyed.
Would definitely recommend for an evening's entertainment.
ValerieY30 December 2003
Very interesting storyline, lots of surprises. The love story is an interesting twist from the typical vampire film. The script is well-written and although obviously filmed on a low budget, is quite entertaining. Love the special effects!!
Great script!
mrsjm29 November 2003
I am not a huge fan of Vampire movies, but my husband loves them, so I have seen my fair share. I really liked "Sleepless Nights" because the script was so well written. I loved the storyline and became very involved in the movie. It is obvious that the creative team knows a lot about the genre, especially the old serials. I found myself enjoying the movie a lot.
Imaginative and Entertaining
tim_harasek11 November 2003
This is not your run of the mill vampire story. Sleepless Nights has an original and imaginative storyline. It also has the right mix of character development, vampire "blood and guts" action, and witty one-liners. It was very entertaining.
Very worth the watch!
snowmail2 November 2003
I confess I started watching it (as I try to do with any film) from a DP's POV - watching the shot, lighting, angles, effects, visual metaphors, architectural / structural relationships in the shot that relate to the story, colors, continuity, etc.
But alas, the film got me and I also found myself watching as is meant to bewatched, with "suspended disbelief".
The script was strong. While it would seem like a tough order to make a vampire sympathetic, Mr. Hopkins seems to have the gift (maybe he's been bitten?). Ahh, that fine line between between sucking all of a victim's blood, or just enough to get what you need. Sounds a bit like like life, no?
Also, the actors really kicked into high gear the further we got into it.
Had a great time watching it! And i would definitely recommend it for anyone who loves movies, or who is interested in movie-making on a low budget!
Steven
But alas, the film got me and I also found myself watching as is meant to bewatched, with "suspended disbelief".
The script was strong. While it would seem like a tough order to make a vampire sympathetic, Mr. Hopkins seems to have the gift (maybe he's been bitten?). Ahh, that fine line between between sucking all of a victim's blood, or just enough to get what you need. Sounds a bit like like life, no?
Also, the actors really kicked into high gear the further we got into it.
Had a great time watching it! And i would definitely recommend it for anyone who loves movies, or who is interested in movie-making on a low budget!
Steven
I like the fact that the movie actually had a good plot which had plenty of surprises.
TheMageKnight29 October 2003
I've seen tons of these kinds of quickie low budget horror movies and they're almost always total junk but this one is pretty good. Some scenes are a little slow and some of the acting is kind of wooden but no more so than the movies and tv shows that the filmmakers were paying tribute to. I like the fact that the movie actually had a good plot which had plenty of surprises and keeps you interested even though there weren't many big action scenes. And at the end of it there's a very good conclusion which makes you feel that it was worth sticking through the whole thing to the end.
So, of all the low budget horror movies that I've seen lately, I'd say this is about the only one that comes close to looking and sounding like a real movie. Compared to alot of the other cheap junk thats out there this thing looks like a masterpiece.
So, of all the low budget horror movies that I've seen lately, I'd say this is about the only one that comes close to looking and sounding like a real movie. Compared to alot of the other cheap junk thats out there this thing looks like a masterpiece.
An entertaining low-budget vampire flick....
VideoMonster10 November 2002
This vampire flick is obviously a labor of love, created by fans of the genre who have been able to compensate for their meager budget by infusing their work with ingenuity and imagination. With its atmospheric music and earnest performances, it takes an old-fashioned approach to the material and manages to deliver something we don't see much of these days: a low-budget genre film which relies more on its involving plot and interesting characters than on excessive gore. That's not to say the film doesn't have some genuinely gruesome moments. But what makes Sleepless Nights work is its screenplay, a solidly crafted piece that is several notches above the average for films of this type. The film is also well served by its cast, an attractive group of newcomers led by Jacqueline Anderson, Matthew Thomas and Richard Ryan. Anderson, a glamorous presence with great sex appeal is ably supported by Thomas and Ryan, two handsome, talented actors we expect to see more of in the future. Also making an impression is Duke York, who plays the villainous Lord Malgaard in a delightfully campy style that brings to mind Vincent Price in his scenery-chewing prime. Malgaard has in his thrall a dog collar-wearing mortal named Stritch, entertainingly played by Adrian Alvarado, who, with his intense expression and emphatic line readings, comes across like a Latin Udo Kier. To be sure, the telltale signs of Sleepless Nights' tiny budget are evident in the sets, costumes and special effects, leaving us to wonder what it would've looked like if the filmmakers had had some real money to work with. But it's a mark of the producers' courage that they attempted to make a film as lavish as this on such limited funds and it's to their credit that they've succeeded as well as they have. And so, while vampire fans are waiting for the next Lestat installment or the next incarnation of Dark Shadows, they might sample this intelligent little flick. At its best, it provides some genuinely pleasurable moments of escapist entertainment, something which--in the horror genre, at least--is in short supply these days.
Dark shadows meets Interview with the Vampire!!!!
BoooNoz9 December 2003
Not just your usual blood and gore. A flick for your intellect as well as as for you eyes. Cool special effects. Kind of took me back to the afternoons of watching DARK SHADOWS when I was a kid. Kick back with your popcorn, ( and maybe some garlic). Great movie for a rainy night, or a full moon!!!!!!!!!!!!
Promising but Unsatisfying
moviemanic0713 November 2004
A good vampire teams up with a federal agent to kill a master vampire in this promising but ultimately unsatisfying thriller. The script and direction by William Hopkins was passable, but the film suffered more as a result of its humanity than its vampirism. The cast of unknowns, although lacking charisma, make the best of the action scenes, but they lack the acting chops to make the 'human' moments believable. That's a pity since, unlike a lot of horror films in this budget range, the script does endeavor to give the characters some depth and genuine emotion and motivation. I would have liked to have seen this film done on a bigger budget. (I'm sure the director would say the same thing.) Also, I was little confused about the initial situation. Is this a global intense plague of vampires? The darkened lights of New York made me think so. But if that's the case, why does the rest of the general public like the people in the bar -- seem unconcerned? If it isn't such a huge problem, why is there a new government agency created to battle them.
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