Vampires, les suceuses de la nuit

James Avalon's "Les Vampyres" (shooting title was "Immortal") takes the overdone horror legend and breathes some life into these undead, thanks to a bravura performance by Syren as lead vamp Veronica. Picture scores high marks in both style and stimulating eroticism, while its sequel turned out to be a letdown.

Contemporary tale of a young couple (Jewel Valmont and Joel Lawrence) on vacation encountering the vamps at a remote inn run by guest star Nick Orleans (looking suitably sinister) is backgrounded by some nice period atmospherics to set up the legend. Busty Oriental star Syren's readings are terrific, not a dragon lady but a mesmerizing evil presence. Her right-hand girl Wendi Knight is a scene-stealer, delivering the film's sexiest performance, and Vamp #3 Violet Luv is also hot hot hot.

Avalon has always been a master technician, and his orchestration of minor effects including smoke, lightning & thunder, and extremely moody lighting are a key to the film's success. The link between the ancient story and the main contemporary one is interesting, later botched in the confusing sequel, which I am reviewing separately.