Fright Night

Release Date: Aug 19, 2011  

Runtime: 1 hr. 46 min. 

Director: Craig Gillespie 

Cast: Colin Farrell, Anton Yelchin, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, David Tennant, Imogen Poots, Toni Collette.

Adding to the list of random remakes is “Fright Night,” a retelling of a cult classic, about a teenage boy who discovers his neighbor is a vampire. But unlike the existing perception of romanticized nightwalkers, this one sticks close to the myth, and brings back the fear that goes hand in hand with the fictional creature. Colin Farrell plays the neighborly bloodsucker, Jerry Dandrige, who feeds on the unknowing residents of suburbia. In a role previously defined by Chris Sarandon, Farrell deftly claims his own portrayal, and imparts a menace that is thinly masked beneath the charm and watchful eyes. Likewise, David Tennant replaces Roddy McDowall as Peter Vincent; this time acting as a Vegas magician obsessed with the dark arts. Along with the pulsing tension and special effects, it’s Tennant’s eccentric performance that really shines onscreen. Opposite the seasoned actors are Anton Yelchin and Christopher Mintz-Plasse as the adolescence who uncover the secret. While Yelchin has been gaining recognition, Mintz-Plasse continues to surprise in his roles, departing from the ‘McLovin’ days that put him on the map. For those unfamiliar with the original story, it’s basically “Disturbia” meets “Zombieland” in modern comparison, as suspense is divided into equal balance of horror and comedy. In addition, the score by Ramin Djawadi is seamlessly fitted, giving it a distinct sound reminiscent of the classics. Though the film may not capture the full impact of the original, it still conveys a freshness that should leave fans pleased. On a side note, Farrell looks to be making an impressive return to mainstream, as this is his second film of the summer, as well as the first of two reboots he’s headlining. If “Fright Night” is any indication, he has plenty more to show in his burgeoning career.

Rating: 3½ stars