Il mio amico vampiro

Back in the 80's, making Childrens Films was eaiser. There was no need for hypnotic techno background beats. Directors didn't include glitzy light shows whenever good and evil fought, Pokemon-style. Some of the best fantasy films come from the 80s and featured bad acting, horrible continuity, and rather icky special effects and cinamatography as a whole.



"The Little Vampire" which stars mostly Jonathan Lipnicki, but also his little fanged friend Rollo Weeks, looks 10-20 years old but it actually a new release by New Line Cinema. And while for many this sounds like the ultimate rip of the dark children's fantasy based on some pretty famous books (at least in Europe), in actuality I think it's this that gives the film class.

I cringe every time Jonathan's character says "dude" and cringe harder when Rollo lays out the vampric lore dribble on why they don't bite humans. (They dine on cows.) But it becomes harder and harder to dislike someone so charming as either boy as the chase for the medallion continues.



The medallion is most of the time gaurded by Rookery who may be one of the most complete characters in the film. From the moment one sees his vampire hunting contraption looking like something from either "Mad Max" or "Tremors," those who are not children in the audience know this isn't going to be your typical kid's flick. The dark, creepyness continues throughout it's length, and someone in Oscar town might want to think on giving some nods for costume and art direction. Nothing beats the expressions on Rollo Weeks' face when he takes Lipnicki for their flights.

Alas, the film lags and is generally one big chase. The vampires want the amulet, the vampire hunter wants the vampires, and Jonathan's parents just want thier son to be normal. A tricky thing a dark movie appropriate for children is. If they had added more action, it wouldn't have worked. And in my opinion, even with the scares present, it probably only worked half way.



But the attempt looks sooo good.

The Little Vampire: B

Just a few words that come to mind when describing The Little Vampire.

This film is beautifully shot and at times looks like a Tim Burton film with the Blue filter over the screen. The costumes: Simply exquisite....they looked excellent.....nice Halloween costumes?!?!?!

Rollo Weeks, in his break through film Debut, gives and exception performance as Rudolph, the Little Vampire...He is a clever, young boy with excellent acting skills.

Lipnicki, of course is too cute, and shines and Tony the young boy with a heart for Vampires.

The Scenery in this film actually steals the show...Beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, lush greens.....breath-taking...

As an adult, I found this film funny, dramatic, and a good time for the whole family....

8 out of 10

A very winning cast, great location, superb kids' story to work with, good production make for some campy scariness for kids with entertainment for mom and dad as well. Charming little movie that appeals to the kid in all of us.The predicament of the cows really did make me laugh out loud.

The acting by one and all was excellent, especially Richard E. Grant as the head of the vampire family. He brought a non-threatening, yet nerve wracking (well, for kids, anyway) presence to the movie. His charming powers over Mrs. Thompson were hysterical, and the entire cast did very well with this movie.

One for the kids that mom and dad will enjoy sitting through, which is a rarity anymore, except for the likes of Shrek.

Oh, and I can't omit Rollo Weeks, as The Little Vampire himself. He was so charming, so perfectly nailed the role of Rudolph. As well as the role for arguably the cutest kid in movies, Jonathan Lipnicki, as Tony Thompson. The crush Anna had on him was acted out adorably by Anna Popplewell, as well. There was just great acting all around in The Little Vampire.

A job well done by all involved. This will make my list of movies to purchase just to share with my grandkids that someday I'll have to spoil. Campy, scary enough for the little ones and entertaining for their parents. What's not to like?

First, let me say that I was determined to dislike this film. Premise seemed childish, obviously aimed at children (and I ceased being one of those *MANY* years ago). Despite my best efforts, I found that I really liked this film. It's certainly not "Gone With the Wind", but it's good entertainment and definitely worth a viewing. At the end, I found myself feeling good about it, which is refreshing today. Even better, it gave me an evening's entertainment without profanity, sex or senseless violence. Lipnicky is (as always) cute and charming. I'd like to see more of Weeks on screen, but don't know if that's feasible as he's a British kid actor.

Don't expect a deep message - it's not there. For a delightful evening's entertainment (with the ENTIRE family!) it's highly recommended. Just sit back and enjoy!

The little vampire is not a serious film and you do have to accept that when you're watching it. It is genuinely funny and shows a new side to vampires. The child actors are pretty good as well as the adults. It is overall a rewatchable and charming film.