Eerie Elegance: the Vourdalak’s Gothic Mastery

Read Time:4 Minute, 29 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Vourdalak (Le Vourdalak)
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Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Adrien Beau
Writer(s): Adrien Beau, Hadrien Bouvier, Aleksei Tolstoy
Cast: Ariane Labed, Kacey Mottet Klein, Grégoire Colin, Vassili Schneider, Claire Duburcq, Gabriel Pavie, Erwan Ribard
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Santa Barbara International Film Festival, exclusively in select cinemas, on June 28, 2024 (don’t miss this one!)

RAVING REVIEW: THE VOURDALAK, directed by Adrien Beau, offers a unique twist on the vampire genre, diving deep into the realms of cursed lineages and rural superstitions. Set against a remote Russian forest backdrop, this film takes inspiration from Aleksey Konstantinovich Tolstoy's 19th-century tale “The Family of the Vourdalak,” blending psychological exploration with supernatural thrills. Shot beautifully on Super 16mm film, it captures the essence of gothic horror, presenting a rich narrative that marries atmospheric depth with captivating storytelling. Beau's innovative vampire lore approach challenges genre clichés, addressing themes of societal decay and identity fluidity. This debut boldly reimagines horror traditions, making THE VOURDALAK a profound, engaging piece that encourages introspection and celebrates the genre's potential for evolution.

THE VOURDALAK marks a thrilling departure from the vampire genre's well-trodden path, introducing us to a world where this mythology isn’t just about fangs and capes but the haunting reality of curses and rural superstitions. Beau’s film breathes new life into horror's classic themes, wrapping them in a narrative that's as rich in atmosphere as it is in depth. Beau transports us to the eerie expanses of Eastern Europe, crafting a supernatural exploration of the mind for the ages.

Nestled within the shadowy confines of a remote Russian forest, the tale of Gorcha (voiced by Adrien Beau) and his foreboding premonition unfolds, revealing a gripping saga of fate, affection, and inherited scars (emotional and physical.) Beau's storytelling weaves these elements into a cinematic experience that captivates the mind and eyes alike. The film distinguishes itself through its authentic adherence to the essence of gothic horror. This style enhances the visual storytelling with a palpable sense of dread and anchors the film in a timeless quality that transcends eras.

A standout aspect of Beau's directorial approach is his refreshing take on vampire lore. He sidesteps the genre's clichés to delve into themes of perceived norms, identity, and the decay of family ties. This innovative perspective, coupled with a keen critique of patriarchy and an exploration of identity fluidity, ensures the film resonates with a modern audience, making the horror all the more profound and fundamental.

The film's narrative is enriched by interweaving historical anecdotes and personal stories, mirroring the intimate yet expansive discussions once held. This blend of individual and historical narrative layers adds a genuine authenticity to the supernatural aspects of the story, amplifying the sense of unease that permeates the film.

This film just “got me” in every possible way; I won’t lie, the first time I saw Gorcha on screen, I audibly gasped, and it only got better from there (even though I couldn’t help and think of Achmed the Dead Terrorist, IYKYK) the entirety of the film I was enamored with this style and the presentation of the film. The look of the sets, the costume design, the scenery, the dialogue, the feel of the film stock, and the dramatics all worked in perfect harmony. This is a must-watch if you like anything about gothic horror or vampires!

THE VOURDALAK is a testament to the enduring allure and versatility of the horror genre. Beau's foray into filmmaking with this debut is nothing short of audacious, challenging traditional narratives and setting new standards for storytelling in horror. While navigating the complexities of its ambitious themes, the film is an engaging and thought-provoking piece, encouraging viewers to ponder the long shadows cast by our past and the nature of fear itself. This cinematic venture pays homage to the rich tradition of horror. It paves the way for its evolution, proving that even in the darkest of tales, there's always room for innovation and introspection.

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[photo courtesy of OSCILLOSCOPE LABORATORIES]

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