Madelaine Kerrigan

Written by Madelaine Kerrigan

Modified & Updated: 13 May 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

38-facts-about-the-movie-what-we-do-in-the-shadows
Source: Leclaireur.fnac.com

What We Do in the Shadows is a vampire mockumentary film that has captured the hearts of both horror and comedy fans alike. Directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, this 2014 cult classic takes a hilarious and fresh approach to the vampire genre. Set in Wellington, New Zealand, the film follows the lives of four vampire roommates who have been sharing a flat for hundreds of years. From their struggles with modern technology to their humorous encounters with werewolves and witches, What We Do in the Shadows is a unique blend of humor, horror, and improv. In this article, we will take a deep dive into this comedic gem, revealing 38 fascinating facts about the making of What We Do in the Shadows that will surely leave you craving for more.

Key Takeaways:

  • “What We Do in the Shadows” is a hilarious mockumentary about vampires in New Zealand, blending classic vampire lore with modern humor, and has gained a strong international following.
  • The film explores the struggles of immortal vampires in the modern world, featuring memorable quotes, a strong cult following, and a successful spin-off series.
Table of Contents

The movie is a mockumentary about vampires living in New Zealand.

What We Do in the Shadows” is a hilarious mockumentary film that follows the lives of a group of vampires sharing a flat in Wellington, New Zealand.

The film was written and directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi.

Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, who are known for their work on the comedy series “Flight of the Conchords,” collaborated to bring this vampire comedy to life.

The movie stars Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi, and Jonathan Brugh.

Clement, Waititi, and Brugh portray the main vampire characters in the film, showcasing their comedic talents and on-screen chemistry.

“What We Do in the Shadows” premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014.

The film received rave reviews and became a favorite among audiences at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival.

The movie received critical acclaim for its clever humor and unique take on the vampire genre.

With its hilarious mockumentary style and clever writing, “What We Do in the Shadows” won the hearts of both critics and audiences alike.

The vampires in the film struggle with modern technology.

In a world filled with smartphones and the internet, the vampire characters find it challenging to adapt to modern technology.

The film features a mix of traditional vampire lore and contemporary humor.

“What We Do in the Shadows” brilliantly blends classic vampire elements with modern comedic sensibilities, resulting in a truly unique cinematic experience.

“What We Do in the Shadows” was inspired by a short film of the same name.

Before becoming a full-length feature, Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi created a short film version of “What We Do in the Shadows” in 2005.

The movie showcases the struggles of everyday vampire life.

From dealing with flatmate disputes to attempting to fit into human society, the film humorously portrays the mundane challenges faced by the vampire characters.

The vampires in the film have distinct personalities.

Each vampire character, from the elegant Viago to the rebellious Deacon, brings their own unique traits and quirks to the story.

“What We Do in the Shadows” was a box office success.

Despite its modest budget, the film performed well at the box office and gained a dedicated fan following.

The movie has since spawned a television spin-off series.

Due to the popularity of the film, a television spin-off titled “What We Do in the Shadows” was created, further expanding the vampire-centric universe.

“What We Do in the Shadows” is known for its memorable quotes.

The film is filled with hilarious and quotable lines that have become fan favorites, adding to its enduring popularity.

The movie has a strong cult following.

Over the years, “What We Do in the Shadows” has gained a dedicated cult following who appreciate its unique blend of humor and horror.

The film’s soundtrack features a mix of classic and contemporary music.

The soundtrack of “What We Do in the Shadows” complements the film’s tone, featuring a diverse selection of songs that enhance the viewing experience.

“What We Do in the Shadows” was shot in a documentary style.

To capture the mockumentary feel, the film was shot in a handheld style, giving it a realistic and authentic touch.

The movie cleverly parodies vampire tropes and clichés.

With its clever writing and self-awareness, “What We Do in the Shadows” playfully mocks and subverts traditional vampire storytelling conventions.

The vampire characters have a clash of personalities and egos.

Living together for centuries, the vampire flatmates often find themselves in humorous conflicts and power struggles.

The film features a blend of improvisation and scripted humor.

Many scenes in “What We Do in the Shadows” were improvised, allowing the actors to showcase their comedic talents and create spontaneous moments.

“What We Do in the Shadows” was praised for its production design and visual effects.

The film’s visual elements, including the vampire makeup and atmospheric settings, contribute to its overall authenticity and appeal.

The movie explores the complexities of vampire-human relationships.

Through various interactions with humans, “What We Do in the Shadows” delves into the challenges and dynamics of vampire-human relationships.

The film introduced the character of Stu, a human friend of the vampires.

Stu, a lovable and unsuspecting human character, becomes an integral part of the vampire group, adding an extra layer of humor to the story.

“What We Do in the Shadows” incorporates elements of dark comedy.

The film skillfully balances humor with darker and more satirical moments, creating a unique blend of genres.

The vampire characters in the film have distinct fashion styles.

From the sophisticated Victorian attire of Viago to the gothic punk fashion of Deacon, the vampires’ fashion choices reflect their personalities and eras of origin.

The movie uses humor to explore themes of friendship and loyalty.

Amidst the comedic chaos, “What We Do in the Shadows” ultimately showcases the importance of friendship and staying true to one another.

“What We Do in the Shadows” has been praised for its clever writing and sharp wit.

The film’s script is filled with witty one-liners and clever dialogue that keep the audience entertained from beginning to end.

The vampires in the movie have unique abilities and weaknesses.

While the vampire characters possess supernatural powers, they also struggle with weaknesses such as sunlight and silver.

The film has spawned various memorable memes and internet references.

Due to its quotable lines and memorable scenes, “What We Do in the Shadows” has become a source of inspiration for online memes and references.

“What We Do in the Shadows” offers a fresh and comedic take on vampire mythology.

The film revitalizes the vampire genre by infusing it with humor and a refreshing twist, making it stand out from traditional vampire films.

The movie explores the struggles and challenges of immortality.

“What We Do in the Shadows” dives into the existential crisis faced by immortal beings, highlighting the complexities and drawbacks of eternal life.

The film’s ensemble cast delivers outstanding performances.

From the main vampire characters to the supporting cast, the actors’ comedic timing and chemistry make “What We Do in the Shadows” a delight to watch.

“What We Do in the Shadows” has been praised for its clever cultural references.

The film cleverly incorporates nods to vampire lore and popular culture, appealing to both vampire aficionados and casual viewers.

The movie showcases the vampires’ attempts to navigate the modern world.

From struggling with technology to trying to fit in with contemporary society, the vampire characters face comical challenges as they adapt to the modern age.

“What We Do in the Shadows” has become a beloved cult classic.

Over the years, the film has garnered a devoted fan following and continues to be celebrated as a comedy gem in the vampire genre.

The movie’s success led to a spin-off series set in the United States.

The popularity of “What We Do in the Shadows” paved the way for a spin-off series, which follows a new group of vampire roommates residing in Staten Island, New York.

“What We Do in the Shadows” explores the immortal characters’ longing for connection and purpose.

Beneath the humor, the film touches on the vampires’ desire for meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging in a world that has changed around them.

The film’s comedic timing and visual gags add to its entertainment value.

With its well-executed comedic timing and clever visual gags, “What We Do in the Shadows” constantly delivers laughs throughout its runtime.

“What We Do in the Shadows” has gained a strong international following.

The film’s universal humor and relatable themes have resonated with audiences worldwide, contributing to its global popularity.

Conclusion

What We Do in the Shadows is an extraordinary film that combines comedy, horror, and mockumentary genres seamlessly. The unique storytelling, brilliant performances, and witty writing make it a must-watch for movie lovers. With its clever and hilarious take on vampire mythology, this film has become a cult classic and has gained a dedicated fan following.

From the clever use of mockumentary style to the incredible attention to detail, What We Do in the Shadows stands out as one of the most innovative and entertaining movies in recent years. It has successfully revived the vampire genre by injecting it with humor and offering a fresh perspective on the age-old legends.

Whether you’re a fan of vampire movies or not, What We Do in the Shadows is a film that deserves your attention. It will have you laughing out loud one moment and on the edge of your seat the next. So grab some popcorn, gather your friends, and get ready for a wild and unforgettable movie experience.

FAQs

Q: Is What We Do in the Shadows a comedy or a horror movie?

A: What We Do in the Shadows can be best described as a horror-comedy or mockumentary. It combines elements of both comedy and horror genres to deliver a hilarious and unexpected experience.

Q: Is What We Do in the Shadows suitable for all ages?

A: While the film is rated R for its language, violence, and some adult content, it ultimately depends on personal preferences and the age of the viewer. It is recommended for mature audiences who appreciate dark humor and enjoy vampire-themed movies.

Q: Is What We Do in the Shadows a remake of an older movie?

A: No, What We Do in the Shadows is an original film written and directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi. It was released in 2014 and has since gained a considerable following for its unique and clever approach to the vampire genre.

Q: Are there any sequels or spin-offs to What We Do in the Shadows?

A: Yes, What We Do in the Shadows has spawned a spin-off series called “Wellington Paranormal” and a sequel titled “We’re Wolves” is currently in development. Both continue to explore the hilarious and supernatural world established in the original film.

Q: Can I watch What We Do in the Shadows without prior knowledge of vampire mythology?

A: Absolutely! While having some familiarity with vampire lore can enhance the viewing experience, the film does an excellent job of introducing and explaining the vampire world in an accessible and entertaining manner, making it enjoyable for both vampire enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

If you enjoyed learning about the hilarious vampire mockumentary "What We Do in the Shadows," why not explore more captivating movie facts? Uncover the supernatural thrills in "Deliver Us From Evil," laugh out loud with the horror comedy antics of "Student Bodies," or delve into the intriguing world of New Zealand film with "Heavenly Creatures." Each movie offers unique insights and entertaining trivia that will keep you engaged and eager to discover more.

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