Interview with the Vampire (TV Series) In Throes of Increasing Wonder... (2022) User Reviews

FInally, an INTERVIEW done right!

[jensenholmesPA · 9/10 · 2 October 2022]

I loved the novel of Interview with a Vampire and found the 1994 movie disappointing. The new series gets it right. The actor who plays Lestat (Sam Reid) fits the novel's character waaay better than Tom Cruise, and is mesmerizing onscreen. The new Louis is an interesting choice. The point of Louis is that he is incredibly sensitive and thus too squeamish for the life of a vampire. In this series, Louis is a tough guy running prostitutes in New Orleans. So it will be interesting to see how they develop his sensitive side later, but the actor is quite good. I loved the extended New Orleans storyline (which isn't in the book). The first episode is around 75 minutes long, and it all takes place before Louis is converted to a vampire, so there's a good bit of new story involving his family and business in New Orleans as well as Lestat's slow seduction.

The story is nicely updated for 2022 with mention of the pandemic, Louis currently living in Dubai, and a cynical older reporter. It's also more multiracial and more gay. While Rice's novel is certainly homoerotic, in the new series, Lestat's seduction is flat-out sexual. I was pleasantly surprised. Bring it.

Suffice it to say, I highly recommend this series to fans of Rice's work and look forward to the rest of the episodes.

A First Class Production

[ronswilliams-03171 · 9/10 · 3 October 2022]

The writing and performances are excellent. As is the music score! The production values, sets and costumes are solid enough. The necessary homo-sexual content was tasteful and not gratuitous. The blood and gore are ample, but not over the top. (In one instance toward the end of episode 1, a victim's death is delivered in a manner I've never seen before. Wow.)

It's rare, if ever, that I've finished watching a series first entry without some degree disappointment. That wasn't the case here. I'll watch episode 2 in a few days.

(I won't make comparisons to the movie, which I rate an IMDb 7 ... or the Anne Rice book which I haven't read.)

My only complaint is a petty one and has nothing to do with the episode. I personally choose never to watch next episode previews at the end of any show. I generally avoid trailers for movies which I'm looking forward to seeing. I want to experience the entertainment for the first time as brand spanking new. I may be peculiar in that way. And so I am not happy with the way AMC has stacked the videos for this series on the selection page. Behind the scenes videos and Recaps of episodes are listed before the episode itself. I wasn't careful and assumed the top video selection box was episode one. It wasn't, it was a recap of episode 1 which is ridiculous placement. I'll be careful to avoid all of these "extras" videos until I've watched the entire series. I do enjoy behind the scenes videos but only after I've completed a full season. AMC could be more clear about the way they present the selection of videos on their streaming lineup page.

Intriguing first episode.

[GraXXoR · 8/10 · 3 October 2022]

I first heard about this show just six hours ago when someone was talking about a reworking of Anne Rice's classic story.

With all the recent reworkings that don't actually... ahem... work, let's just say I was not looking forward to this.

But 70 minutes later, I came out the other side impressed.

From start to finish, this show has a sheen of class and respect for the source material that many reworkings unfortunately lack, reviving much of the atmosphere and foreboding of the original.

The 500 pound gorilla in the room is obviously the reworking of the protagonists' relationship, since the obvious homosexual undertones of the original 90s novel have definitely been broken "out", shall we say, and placed in full display of the audience, which may well scare off some of some of them.

But for me, from incredibly convincing opening "Masterclass" to final closing curtain, this 70 minutes passed without a single glance at my watch or even a cursory head to the fridge.

A decent first episode.

Really looking forward to EP 2.

Mind blowing IWTV

[iamdjohnson-31799 · 10/10 · 31 July 2023]

This show is just so brilliant - from the glorious set and costume designs, to the nuanced cinematography and directing, to the stupendous script and casting. Interview With The Vampire is shaping up to be the show of the decade. 👏🏻

Sam Reid as Lestat is absolutely SPELLBINDING 👌🏼 He has understood and embodied Lestat so completely, utter dedication. He IS our Lestat; amusing & stubborn, cruel & devoted, bratty & beautiful, refined & imperfect, tempestuous & confident, fierce & sad, elegant & ruthless, loving & damaged, radient & indomitable. I truly think Anne would have adored him.

And oh boy is Jacob Anderson phenomenal. Its an ingenious casting choice - This Louis has a ferocity to him, a combattiveness born from years of having to fight harder, stay cooler, achieve higher despite his circumstances. Its an electrifying new twist on the character, and it's easy to see why Lestat is besotted with him. Anderson brings Louis to life in a way which is so real, so relatable and raw. His range is incredible and the subtlties of emotion he manages to convey with his face and posture... just riveting.

This amazing show has breathed new life into Anne's incredible world of gothic romance, philosophy, history and death. I hope a whole new generation will now get to appreciate her work through this phenomenal production.

Second Time is the Charm

[jadzia-87886 · 10/10 · 5 October 2022]

Wow I was skeptic about this re telling of the classic

However wow boy was I happily surprised

This retelling / continuation of the Interview with the Vampire books is just phenomenal

Both lead actors just blew me away

Can not wait to see more

Keep this level up and you have my full attention.

I was always a fan of the original movie and remember going into the cinema watching it and thinking wow

When I heard they were retelling or continuing the story I was very on guard as I loved the movie

The first two episodes were outstanding.

The little details and costuming make it so captivating.

Open your mind and heart to this new inspired story!

[tawniphoenix · 10/10 · 26 October 2022]

I am an avid lover of this book series, like many. The stories of these characters are so near and dear to my heart, especially as I was able to walk the streets of New Orleans growing up while reading and imagine it all right there. This was the world I escaped to when my own was difficult. This was the world that nurtured my own love of dark fiction.

I was anxious about this reimagining of my favorite tale, but so far I have been more than pleasantly surprised.

Is this show different? Yes, but from what? The original movie adaptation? That was different too for us lovers of the books. Different from the books themselves? Absolutely, but what did you love about them, really? Did you love them for the minute details of the era? Or did you fall in love with the personalities of the characters? I wasn't looking for another plantation story. I wasn't looking for a carbon copy of this book. I was looking for the soul of Louis, and I found it. Wow. I cannot say enough about how wildly in tune with the spirits of Louis and Lestat these actors are. They aren't imitating the old movie. They aren't imitating anything. It's clear though, that they looked hard into what makes these characters tick, and they BROUGHT IT.

Don't watch this show looking for a cookie cutter spit out of the old movie, or even the books. But let yourself step back into this world and breathe in the fresh air of imagination. Louis and Lestat are there, as present as they ever were. Even more so than in other adaptations, in fact. I am thrilled to be able to go on this journey again. I love the references to Lestat's story, I love the little tastes of what is yet to come. I adore what has been done with this show so far, and I can't wait to see more of it.

Loving it!!

[YAEIQS · 10/10 · 6 October 2022]

This first episode really blew me away!! I did not have high expectations after seeing so many changes but wow this is fantastic so far! Not only am I loving the adaption, I'm loving the changes! They're believable and and I have no problems with them. Lestat's character is so on point!! I'm an avid book fan and can definitely say that this show has been worth the wait. Whether you're a fan of the books or not I really encourage you to give this show a try. The costumes, sets, acting. It's all phenomenal. If I could give this episode more than 10 stars I would. I am so looking forward to the rest of the season!!

A pilot episode straight from heaven

[majamaja-71354 · 10/10 · 6 October 2022]

I have never seen a better pilot episode in my life. It introduces the plot and the characters characters expertly and really sets the tone. I especially love Lestat's introduction and the fact that we get to know Louis' siblings which were entirely absent from the movie and barely mentioned in the books. The relationship between Louis and his siblings is very sweet and tells you a lot about what he is like as a person. Paul's death really felt tragic since we had actually gotten to know him before his death. You really feel with Louis and understand his grief and weakness that leads him to accept Lestats offer. The delve into race and sexuality was unexpected but oh so welcome. The fact that Louis' turn absolutely was a wedding will haunt me forever. The contrast between Grace's happy and light affair and the absolute carnage of the church. Father Matthias being present for both, alive and then dead. Paul's last sentiment being that Louis should get married next, and Louis abhorring the idea up until the moment he says yes to his undoing. The exchanging of blood like an exchanging of vows. A deconstruction, a mockery, a haunting debauchery, but a wedding nonetheless. An absolutely beautiful work of art.

I loved the novel, and I'm really enjoying this thus far.

[7omd · 9/10 · 8 October 2022]

As a fan of the Anne Rice novels, I was so excited when I discovered they were making this. I loved the 1994 film too, the Queen of the Damned film not so much, but that's another story. Admittedly yes, this is a very fresh take on Anne's original characters, and while most purists have condemned this remake, I have thoroughly enjoyed the first two episodes so far. For the other purists who are deciding on whether or not to watch it, if you're open minded enough to accept a modern spin on an old story, I say do it!. The roles are well cast and their performances are aptly portrayed. My only qualm is they didn't use the line "Your body's dying...pay no attention".

Anne Rice Vampire Fans prepare to feel conflicted.

[themadchemist-84860 · 7/10 · 9 October 2022]

The original movie was a huge disappointment with Cruise as a short little antithesis of the towering, blond devilish Lestat. Pitt as the brooding Louis did fit the role either. Having to have the wrong big Hollywood names ruined these cult classic characters.

Now we have a new series that is also not true to the novel. Sam Reid portrays a sensual mesmerizing Lestat Lioncourt that does the character proud but Louis Point du Lac is completely new and reinvented. He is not a plantation owner of the post colonial 1790s but a pimp in the early 20th century.

You may find yourself embracing Reid's Lestat but simultaneously mourning the loss of a Louis that no longer exists. I feel the entire dynamic of the story has changed and I don't see how a child vampire Claudia would fit into this new characterization.

Considering that Anne and Christopher Rice co-produced this TV series adaptation the changes and reinvention of Louis must have been approved and embraced by the original novelist. I'll continue watching but as a long time fan of Rice's novels my opinion of this new Louis is highly conflicted.

I hope the series is successful enough to continue the Vampire Chronicles. The novel Lestat has never been brought to the screen and that's the series I really want to see!

Proven wrong, thank goodness

[paulaaporrasl · 9/10 · 4 October 2022]

I'm a huge fan of the books, especially the first 3. I actually really really liked the movie and when I read about all the changes I was scared and already thinking this show was going to be AWFULLY adapted.

I'm soooo happy I was proven wrong. Within the first few minutes, it was clear to me the show wasn't an adaptation but it was INSPIRED by the books, and I feel that's exactly how it should be done.

I finally not only like Louis but love him. I understand him and I see him. I was a little afraid of this new interpretation of Daniel because I know where the books went for and this ain't it, BUUUUUUT I love him so much, he's funny and gives me an Anthony Bourdain vibe which I freaking love. Interested where they'll go with his character.

Interview didn't need to air

[creole-12539 · 4/10 · 8 October 2022]

I liked 3 things about this version The sets, Eric Bogosian, Jacob Anderson.

The pace of the story felt drawn out with no worthwhile filler. Longtime and casual fans alike know what was coming from the moment we see Lestat.

The additional characters serve no advantage to the story and in fact detract from the main character story.

By the end of the episode they're basically forgotten in a " until next we meet " vibe.

The modern setting for Daniel's and Louis' meeting is nice with the current tech vibe. Eric as Daniel as an older man doesn't clash with how Christian Slater portrayed him in the movie. The rest of the season, I'm not sure I'll be following.

Captivating

[jackpardo · 10/10 · 6 October 2022]

I never interacted with any Vampire Chronicles content before this series but I should've. I couldn't stop thinking about this episode after finishing it. Jacob Anderson and Sam Reid are amazing and their chemistry is off the roof, making this story very enjoyable. Jacob is going for that Emmy next year for the confession scene alone. Also I love how well done is the storytelling with the time set they chose for this rendition (early 1900's). I love vampire media and this series is everything I needed.

After this episode I bought the first book and after the second I finally watched the movie, which i enjoyed a lot but I think I like this series better, for the added challenge to Louis being a man of color. Also series format works way better to flesh out characters and their relationships.

Highly recommended.

Fantastic!

[twilightrmc · 10/10 · 31 July 2023]

I have rewatched this ep in particular many times as the story does seduce you and gosh is it so good. The juxtaposition of Dubai and 1910's New Orleans is exquisite. Such a fantastic pilot episodes it really draws you in and having a previous interview gone awry in the past is so intriguing and compelling and you can see from the get go how Daniel is pulling the thread and getting to the truth of Louis's story; and how Louis narrative is not to be completely trusted. Memory is a monster even when you are vampire. I can't wait to see how Armand ties into this and if he messed with Louis and Daniel's memories. Looking forward to season 2.

Bloody good

[ajrbrennan · 9/10 · 4 October 2022]

I went in expecting something diverting-fun but not particularly good-and wow was I pleasantly surprised! This first episode is moody and evocative and charming, and it's gothic horror sensibilities reminded me of reading the book. It's an adaptation of the book for sure, but I appreciated the bold choices made to differentiate this version from its book and movie predecessors. The writing is wonderful, the costuming and scenery luxurious, and I especially liked the music. The best part though, in my opinion, are the two leads. They're electric on screen together, and each one does an amazing job embodying his character. I can't wait to see episode two!

A great start

[Mariam89 · 10/10 · 6 October 2022]

I'm a big fan of the novels and I was very excited for this show but also a little worried about all the changes. And while I still worry about how they will deal in the future with some of those changes I have to say that they really did an amazing job in this first episode.

I don't mind changes when the changes made are well done, keep the original spirit of the story that made fans fell in love with it, and the final product is good, and in this case I think the first episode has been amazing.

I love Lestat, he is my favourite characters from the novels and for now I think they have done a great job with him.

Louis personality is actually quite differente from the book, but he was always a bit of a downer and I will admit that am actually enjoying him more here that in the novels.

Seeing Lestat and Louis relationship finally being clear on screen and not only subtext is also absolutely amazing.

I also loved the several references that book readers will understand, like the one about Nicholas. I wonder if we will get Lestat past in future seasons.

I can't watch to see more of this show. An amazing first episode for a show with a lot of potential.

True In Spirit & Essence

[Lisely · 10/10 · 6 October 2022]

I first read Rice's books 22 years ago when I was a young teen. I fell in love with the characters and never turned back. I was worried about what this new series would bring, but I shouldn't have been. The series is beautiful and beautifully acted. There are changes and updates of course but it's so clear that everyone working on it has such respect and love for the source material. Lestat and Louis are complicated characters that the actors have just nailed. The biggest compliment I can offer is that for a long-time fan of the books, the series feels absolutely right. So happy with this so far.

A pleasant surprise, after my adjustment to the era change

[scootmandu-662-305600 · 8/10 · 3 December 2022]

I am a huge fan of the Anne Rice novel. It is one of my favorite works. When the movie came out, I thought it was simply okay, but it was hard to do justice to the book.

Because I have such high regard for the novel, I almost did not want to see this turned into a series. And, at the start, I felt a bit jarred that Louis' story origin takes place in 1910 as opposed to the late 18th Century.

But then, I just decided to keep an open mind and settle into the changes, which certainly seemed to be in the spirit of Rice's original work. She obviously was involved in the project before her recent passing, because she is credited as Executive Producer, along with her son.

I am glad I stuck with this. The performances are mesmerizing. The 2 leads are quite good, but the actor playing Lestat is absolutely incandescent. His final scene and moment are crackling with ferocity and electricity.

The violence is a bit shocking, a couple of times, but in the context of the character, the casual brutality makes sense.

Looking forward to see where this series goes from here.

Suprisingly well done

[umuterdonmezzz · 8/10 · 4 October 2022]

I've watched the movie a few times and i remember how i loved the storytelling and the timeless relationship between two vampires. When i first heard about the series i thought to myself "damn they are going to butcher that classic too huh" But after watching 2 episodes i can say that they are doing a great job with the storytelling and the production is unbelievably good. Lestat is great tbh, he is like blonde, evil version of Superman lol. Never seen or heard about Same Reid before but i'll definitely check his other works. Jacob Anderson as Louis is not so bad either, i don't dig the accent but his narrative is really well which shows that writers don't actually suck. Eric Bogosian as Molly is an interesting character too, a bitter man whom seen a lot, achieved some, failed even more which makes him a "real guy" . If you see a negative review here its probably the book fans that cant stand any kind of change on source material, ignore them and just watch.

Damaged the masterpiece

[rikudouensof · 5/10 · 3 October 2022]

If you are new to this franchise, and have not read the book. You are in luck. I would assume that you will love the story.

The struggle of Louis engaging.

The cultural dynamics is also cliche, but not too much.

The LBGTQ is quite Appreciated. The Violence, Graphics and Language has been a fresh air from Disney.

A good watch.

***

If you are coming here from the novel. I can feel your pain. This world is vast. We still have the witches, wolves, monks... yet they added data we do not need.

The chronicles had so much description, yet they had to bring damage it like almost everything i am seeing.

This is sad.

Louis is very wrong, and from the glimpse of the "forever child", that is also wrong.

You can only enjoy this, if you want to view it as an alternate reality.

Many parts of the story has been switched out. They made it palatable to some people, loosing their target audience.

At least Lestat looks the part.

If you do not want to damage the real account of Louis, Remember to keep your copy safe.

***

From a book reader, this is a 2* , from a fresher perspective, it is a 8* hence my 5* Rating.

This is everything!!

[tamarahgh · 10/10 · 17 November 2023]

This is the best thing that happened to me this year. I watched the show a few weeks back for the first time and now I've watched it 3 times already. Sam Reids and Jacob Andersons chemistry is out of this world. Their performance is immaculate and inspired me to read the books. And I LOVE the books. All changes seem to be in context and open up a new dimension to incorporate all books of Anne Rice. This Pilot alone capture me so deeply, that I couldn't help but watch the whole first season in one sitting till 5a.m. The best part is the open queerness, which was finally possible. The dynamic of Lestat and Louis is finally portrayed like it always should have been. And I can't wait for more.

Disappointment, Violence, Adultery, and Nudity

[datahog-50725 · 3/10 · 16 December 2022]

I'd like to say that I've read all the books and I confess myself disappointed. Part of the allure of the books was that Lestat and Louis relationship was always a mystery. It left you wondering, kept you intrigued. The eloquence of the books has been lost... replaced with blatant, unquenched homosexuality. This is not a win for homosexuals everywhere... they deserved better.

The malice that Lestat bears for Christianity, albeit his abusive upbringing, was present later in the series, and not to the extent we witnessed here. The series is taking it a bit too far, in the first episode, to murder Louis priest brother and 2 other priests in a church. It's turning the series into an anti-Christianity flick where 2 gay vampires are hell-bent on destroying their family, with none of the original finesse, beauty, and wonderment the book series offered...

I will not be watching the rest of the series and I suggest you don't either.