Fright Night

Starring: Chris Sarandon, William Ragsdale, Amanda Bearse, Roddy McDowall
Written by: Tom Holland 
Director: Tom Holland
Year: 1985

Rating: * * *   Stars       +       (Fan Bonus 1/2 )  Total: * * * 1/2

It was difficult to create a compelling horror film in the 1980's without some cheese involved, and Fright Night was no exception. Still, that was part of its charm. This film definitely had teenagers in mind when making this movie. There was sexuality, but no sex. There was blood, but little violence. 

Scary scenes, but no real terror. A strong plot, but doesn't require too much thought on the audiences part. And of course, the protagonist is a straight up John Q teenager, making him relatable to the target audience. Not very popular, but he still has a girlfriend. He also has a bizarre best friend, and a penchant for horror movies. And to top it all off, his neighbor is a vampire.

William Ragsdale plays Charlie Brewster, the lead character. William brings a sense of innocent charm to his character. He comes off as a gentler, sweet kid next door. Upon learning that his neighbor, Jerry Dandrige (Chris Sarandon) is a vampire, he begins to snoop around and even calls in the police. Having enough of Charlie's pestering, Jerry invades his room and gives him a stern warning not to meddle in his affairs. Charlie stabs him with a pencil. Jerry prepares to tear him apart until Charlies Mother shows up and he beats a quick retreat before being discovered. Jerry vows to kill Charlie the next night.

Of course, no one believes him, including his girlfriend Amy (Amanda Bearse) and his best friend Evil Ed (Stephen Geoffreys). They are concerned that Charlie is serious and seek the help of former cinematic Vampire Hunter turned late night cable host Peter Vincent (Roddy McDowall). A gentle, but cowardly fellow, Peter takes the kids money after being fired from the station and puts on a mock vampire investigation to satisfy their friend Charlie's obsession over his neighbor. Even Jerry Dandrige seems to have a change of heart, hoping this charade is enough to keep Charlie from meddling. But Jerry becomes entranced with Amy, who reminds him of a centuries old flame he once had. Not to mention Peter Vincent also discovers his secret. Now Jerry looks to embrace Amy, and destroy Charlie and his friends.

From start to finish, Fright Night is a decent addition to the vampire genre. Director Tom Holland creates a satisfying, contemporary vampire flick of popcorn flair. It falls in line with traditional vampire myths, not pushing the envelope like Interview With The Vampire or Let The Right One In would. Chris Sarandon is both charming and menacing as Jerry Dandrige, making him a perfect on screen vampire. Make-up and special effects are top notch, giving the vampires a truly ghoulish appearance. Overall the film is enjoyable, and it causes a few laughs along the way. And for the younger audience, it will generate moments of hiding their eyes behind their hands. 

Fright Night was successful enough to warrant a decent, but inferior sequel in 1988, as well as a 2011 remake.

SEE THE TRAILER: Fright Night