Ah, vampires. Sparkly, brooding, eternal creatures of the night, right? Wrong. If you’ve lived under a rock or in a coffin, you missed "What We Do in the Shadows." Forget what you think you know about vampires from teen dramas and dramatic films. This mockumentary shows the absurd lives of bloodsucking roommates.
Is "What We Do in the Shadows" Worth Watching?
Let’s cut to the chase. Is "What We Do in the Shadows" worth your time? Yes, absolutely. The mockumentary genre is not new – think "This is Spinal Tap" or "The Office." Yet, "What We Do in the Shadows" offers a fresh, amusing spin. Sure, there may be "stronger entries" if you are comparing comedic masterpieces. But if you want consistent laughs, this movie delivers.
The film dives into the chaotic lives of Viago, Vladislav, Deacon, and Peter. They navigate the modern world, hilariously failing. From flatmate meetings about dishes (spoiler: no one does them) to hypnotism fails, this movie is packed with witty banter and physical comedy. It's humor that sneaks up, leaving you gasping between laughs. A film that makes you chuckle at centuries-old vampires arguing over cleaning is doing something right.
Showdown: Movie vs. Series – Which Is Better?
The big question: movie or show? Which is the better creature of the night? It’s a classic debate among fans. The movie, released in 2014, introduces the core concept. It is a tight, self-contained story full of vampire absurdity.
The series, which started in 2019, takes the idea and runs with it like a vampire bat escape. With six glorious seasons, the show expands the universe and introduces new characters. It finds its own comedic voice. While the movie is brilliant, the series has space to develop characters and take risks that pay off. Remember Jackie Daytona? Colin Robinson’s evolution? Guillermo's service? These series wonders elevate "What We Do in the Shadows" to a new comedic level.
It’s like comparing appetizers to a gourmet meal. Both satisfy, but one offers a richer experience. The series dives into characters' backstories, relationships, and struggles to adapt. The movie sets the stage, while the series builds a mansion. Many argue the show surpasses its predecessor. This highlights the creators' vision, enhancing the brilliant movie concept into a superior series.
Are They Related? The Connection Between Movie and Show
Are the "What We Do in the Shadows" movie and show connected in some grand universe? The answer mirrors vampire lore – shrouded in shadows. They aren't directly connected in plot or characters but share a comedic essence. The movie's vampires are in Wellington, New Zealand. The series is in Staten Island, New York, with a new cast.
Think of it as shared spirit, not strict continuity. Different covens exist under the same old, ridiculous vampire laws. There are nods to the movie in the series, little Easter eggs for fans. Yet, nothing directly ties them narratively. The humor, style, focus on vampire roommates dealing with daily problems connect them. You could watch the series without seeing the movie and still understand it completely, and vice versa. They are not identical but comedic cousins.
The Final Sunset: Why "What We Do in the Shadows" Ended
The news hit fans like a stake to the heart: "What We Do in the Shadows" ended after six seasons. Cue the collective groans of vampire enthusiasts worldwide. Why would FX, the network behind this masterpiece, cancel it? Did ratings plummet? Did vampires run out of victims?
Not Cancelled, But Concluded: An Undead Exit
Let’s clarify: "What We Do in the Shadows" was not technically "cancelled." That word conjures images of executives abruptly ending beloved shows. This wasn’t that case. FX and the creators decided to end it after season six. They believed the story reached a "natural conclusion." In TV’s fickle world, this is a refreshing choice.
How many beloved shows have dragged on too long? They lost their spark, becoming pale shadows of their former selves. "What We Do in the Shadows" aimed to avoid that fate. The creators noted they told their desired story and explored their characters fully. Six seasons of consistent comedic brilliance were delivered. No need to stretch it or force storylines. They opted to go out on top and end while still fresh.
Story's End: A Natural Undead Conclusion
The idea of a "natural conclusion" might seem vague, especially with immortal vampires. Yet, it makes sense. The show focuses on vampires' adaptations to the modern world and their relationships with each other and Guillermo. Over six seasons, characters grew, changed, and faced absurd situations. Guillermo's journey from familiar to slayer and back again is one example. Nadja's ventures, Laszlo's experiments, Nandor's quest for purpose, and Colin Robinson’s antics all progressed and reached satisfying points.
To continue indefinitely risks repetition and decline in quality. The beauty of "What We Do in the Shadows" lies in sharp writing and quirky characters. To maintain brilliance needs creativity and the ability to know when to stop. The creators recognized that moment and chose to conclude their story on their own terms. Thus, they kept the legacy of "What We Do in the Shadows" untarnished.
Cheers to the Finale: Ending on a High Note
And what a high note it was. As Cheryl Eddy of Gizmodo said, "Jackie Daytona would raise a glass." The series finale, titled "The Finale," accomplished its goal: wrapping up major plot points without losing comedic charm.
Storylines offered closure and left us wanting more. It’s a bittersweet feeling, like finishing a great book or saying goodbye to friends. You feel sad it's over but grateful for the experience.
The finale didn’t tie up every loose end neatly. It embraced the show’s absurdity. Some plots resolved, like Guillermo's journey, while others stayed delightfully ambiguous. This ending captures "What We Do in the Shadows": funny and poignant, yet unfinished. Vampires' lives never truly finish; they simply continue in odd, wonderful ways. Ending on a high note preserved the show's integrity, leaving fans with fond memories and quotable lines.
Meet the Characters: "What We Do in the Shadows"
One strength of "What We Do in the Shadows," both the movie and series, is its unforgettable cast. Nandor is cluelessly narcissistic, while Colin Robinson is perpetually bored. Each character adds unique absurdity. But who are the true fan favorites?
A Gallery of Delightful Dorks
Lists are subjective, yet some characters usually top polls in this universe. Here are cherished figures, in no order:
- Nandor the Relentless: Kayvan Novak’s Nandor is a bumbling Staten Island vampire. He is a comedic goldmine. His attempts to intimidate, loyalty to Guillermo, and incompetence make him endearing.
- Laszlo Cravensworth: Matt Berry's Laszlo is flamboyant and depraved. His love for Nadja and bizarre experiments make him a fan favorite.
- Nadja of Antipaxos: Natasia Demetriou’s Nadja shows deadpan delivery and simmering rage. She is fiercely independent and often frustrated with the males, bringing chaos to the show.
- Colin Robinson: Mark Proksch’s Colin drains energy as an energy vampire. His dull tales can be horrifying yet funny, making him a character you love to hate.
- Guillermo de la Cruz: Harvey Guillén’s Guillermo is the heart of the series. His journey from servant to vampire hunter is compelling. His wit and exasperation make him relatable.
- Sean Rinaldi: Anthony Atamanuik's Sean is an oblivious human neighbor. His normalcy against the bizarre is amusing, as he remains unaware of the chaos next door.
- The Guide: Kristen Schaal is a rules-obsessed council representative. Her humor and interactions with Staten Island vampires add comedic layers.
- Jeff Suckler: Doug Jones's old, decrepit Jeff is memorable in unsettling ways. He reminds us of the true monstrous side of vampirism.
This is just a taste. "What We Do in the Shadows" has memorable supporting characters contributing to the rich comedy.
Nadja's Secret: Pregnancy During Production
Season 6 brought a twist: Natasia Demetriou, who plays Nadja, was pregnant. The production team creatively concealed her baby bump while maintaining the comedic tone. Was Nadja pregnant in the show? Let's clarify this.
Nadja: Not Expecting, But Natasia Was!
Nadja was not showing a baby bump in season 6. The vampire queen remained un-pregnant during the final season. However, Natasia Demetriou was expecting in real life. This created a fun challenge for how to hide a bump in a show known for slender vampires.
Hiding Techniques: Demetriou's Pregnancy Concealment
The production team used clever and comedic techniques to hide Demetriou's pregnancy. These techniques were not your typical tricks. "What We Do in the Shadows" went for full comedic commitment.
- Strategic Props: Boxes, buckets, and fruit bowls became Nadja’s best friends. Need a conversation? Hold boxes in front of you. Sitting down? Use a fruit bowl on your lap.
- Pillow Power: Pillows were no longer just for lounging; they disguised any hint of a baby bump. Nadja often sat with pillows on her lap, a choice that made comedic sense.
- Camera Angles: Directors used clever angles to keep focus off Demetriou's midsection. Standing behind furniture and shooting from high angles helped conceal the bump.
Even Demetriou joined in, using these techniques during interviews. It became a running joke, a behind-the-scenes secret that added to the quirky charm of production. Observant viewers might have noticed subtle hints in season 6. Nadja often sat down, sometimes with a pillow or book in place. But for most, the pregnancy remained cleverly hidden, showing the team's creativity and Demetriou's comedic talent.
Guillermo's Journey: From Familiar to Everything Else
Guillermo de la Cruz has become synonymous with loyalty and a surprisingly high vampire kill count. Harvey Guillén plays Guillermo with understated brilliance. He may be the most relatable character in "What We Do in the Shadows." His growth from familiar to... let's explore that.
The Familiar Life: Servitude and Dreams
In the early seasons, Guillermo serves Nandor the Relentless. Being "familiar" means he’s a butler, cleaner, chauffeur, and bodyguard. His days involve mundane tasks, from scheduling rituals to cleaning vampire messes. In return, he dreams of vampirism—an enticing promise from Nandor.
In early seasons, Guillermo's key trait is his loyalty, despite being overlooked by Nandor. He suffers indignities for the hope of immortality and becoming a vampire himself. His yearning drives his early arc as he dreams of being part of their world even if it means becoming one of them.
he serves.
Human Again? Guillermo's Finale Twist
In the series finale, Guillermo’s journey takes an unexpected turn. After becoming a vampire in season 4, he becomes human again. Yes, that’s correct. Guillermo’s vampire arc comes full circle, leading him back to humanity in a shocking but fitting move.
This transformation is wonderfully absurd. In a convoluted ceremony, Nandor tries to turn Guillermo into a vampire "properly". However, he presents Guillermo with a choice: human or vampire? Surprisingly, Guillermo chooses to be human. In a bizarre twist, Nandor orders Guillermo to stake Derek, the vampire who turned him. Guillermo can’t kill his friend. So, Nandor stakes Derek, turning Guillermo back into a human.
This ending exemplifies "What We Do in the Shadows" subverting expectations. After longing for vampirism, Guillermo chooses humanity. This speaks volumes about his character and desires. It’s a funny, poignant conclusion to his arc, leaving us to wonder about Guillermo’s future as a human... vampire... human again.
Vampire Guillermo: A Brief but Bloody Interlude
For a brief time, Guillermo was indeed a vampire. In the season 4 finale, after waiting for Nandor, Guillermo takes matters into his own hands. He gets help from Derek, who awkwardly turns him into a vampire in an underwhelming ceremony.
This change is a major turning point for Guillermo. He finally achieves his dream of gaining powers and immortality. For a while, Vampire Guillermo enjoys his newfound abilities and the perks of undead life. It’s satisfying for his years of servitude.
However, this vampire bliss is short-lived. Guillermo realizes that being a vampire comes with complications, especially living with needy vampires. His journey, though brief, is critical to his development. It leads him to question his desires, ultimately choosing a different path in the finale.
Laszlo and Guillermo: An Unlikely... Bromance?
The relationship between Laszlo and Guillermo is filled with humor. On the surface, it seems like a master-servant dynamic with a vampire twist. Laszlo is flamboyant and self-absorbed, while Guillermo is quiet and dutiful. But there is a strange kind of affection beneath this surface.
For much of the series, Laszlo treats Guillermo with indifference and amusement. He famously calls him "Gizmo," unable or unwilling to remember his name. He rarely shows any affection. Yet, there are moments hinting at a deeper connection. Laszlo relies on Guillermo more than he shows, often enlisting his help in bizarre schemes.
In later seasons, especially when Guillermo becomes a vampire, Laszlo shifts his attitude. He becomes more supportive, offering help and advice in an eccentric way. When Guillermo reveals his secret, Laszlo tries to help instead of ratting him out. This isn’t a grand bromance, but it’s a unique bond built on shared absurdity and their chaotic household.
Colin Robinson: The Enigma of Energy Vampirism
Ah, Colin Robinson. The day-walking, energy-draining vampire in a beige cardigan. He manages to be both boring and fascinating. Masterfully portrayed by Mark Proksch, Colin is unique in the vampire world. But what is an energy vampire?
The Drain Game: Understanding Energy Vampirism
Unlike his housemates, Colin feeds on human energy. He doesn’t bite necks or brandish fangs. Instead, he uses boredom as a weapon. He drains life force through tedious conversations, pointless anecdotes, and bureaucratic jargon. Office environments are his hunting grounds.
Colin Robinson's energy vampirism is a comedic metaphor for modern life's soul-crushing aspects. He embodies tedious meetings and corporate jargon. He’s the vampire of the mundane, feasting on our collective ennui. Yet, beneath his surface, there’s a hint of something more. Even an energy vampire needs friends.
From Corpse to... Baby? Colin Robinson's Bizarre Evolution
Colin’s arc takes wild turns throughout the series, culminating in one of television's most bizarre storylines. In season 3, Colin seemingly dies, his body crumbling into dust. But in "What We Do in the Shadows," death is rarely final.
In an absurd twist, an infant Colin bursts forth from his corpse. Yes, Baby Colin has the same deadpan demeanor and energy-draining tendencies. This infant rapidly ages into adulthood in a matter of months. This twist perfectly encapsulates the show's absurdity.
Adult Colin 2.0 remains, still draining energy and annoying housemates. However, his rebirth adds new layers to his character. What is Colin Robinson? Is he immortal? A cyclical energy being? The show leaves these questions unanswered, making Colin an enigma.
Laszlo Cravensworth: Renaissance Vampire and Rake Extraordinaire
Laszlo Cravensworth. The name conjures images of velvet jackets and laughter. Played by Matt Berry, Laszlo is flamboyant and endlessly entertaining. But beyond bravado, who is he?
Talents and Triumphs: Laszlo's Cultural Contributions
Laszlo is, as the show reveals, a man of many talents. By "talents," we mean questionable artistic endeavors. Throughout his life, Laszlo has dabbled in many pursuits, impacting history with scandalous contributions.
He has been a musician and composer of avant-garde symphonies. He’s also an artist, creating memorable portraits. Most infamously, he’s been a pornographer. His artistic endeavors border on the obscene and are consistently hilarious. They depict a vampire who has indulged every whim, leaving bewildered humans in his wake.
Hypnotic Hilarity: Laszlo's Powers and Peculiarities
Like any good vampire, Laszlo possesses supernatural powers. His most potent ability is hypnotism. Laszlo controls human minds with a glance and command. He uses this for free drinks or to make people forget vampires exist.
His hypnotism is not foolproof. Sometimes commands are misinterpreted, leading to misunderstandings. Even humans can be too stubborn to be hypnotized effectively. Laszlo's powers extend to animal communication, though his attempts.
To control animals often leads to resistance. He can communicate with them. However, they do not always listen. They ignore his requests, especially if they are uncomfortable or undignified.
Nadja and Laszlo: A Love Story Centuries in the Making
Laszlo and Nadja share a fiery, chaotic bond at the core of "What We Do in the Shadows." They are vampire soulmates. Their history spans centuries. It includes passion, shared desire, and frustration. Nadja turned Laszlo into a vampire, igniting their long romance. They married quickly and have been together on and off since.
Their relationship is a mix of love, arguments, and odd adventures. They argue often and hurl creative insults. Occasionally, they attempt to kill each other for fun. Below all the chaos lies deep love. Their connection grew through centuries of shared events. They serve as each other's confidantes and crime partners. Nadja and Laszlo show that even immortal relationships are messy and funny.
Jackie Daytona: Human Bartender Extraordinaire
Then comes Jackie Daytona. This is Laszlo's human alias. He uses it to avoid drama or indulge in volleyball. Jackie Daytona has become a favorite character and beloved meme.
He is a "regular human bartender" from Tucson, Arizona. He wears a denim vest and a baseball cap. His American accent is odd for a centuries-old British vampire. Jackie runs Lucky Brew's Bar and Grill, his sanctuary. He embodies traits Laszlo lacks: humble, down-to-earth, obsessed with human sports. He is a funny creation, showcasing Laszlo's ability to blend into human life... somewhat.
The Sire: The Origin of the Undead
Among the lore of "What We Do in the Shadows," one figure stands out: The Sire, also known as Goëjlrm. He is an ancient being and the first vampire, the progenitor of all others. Think of him as Vampire Ground Zero.
The First Fang: Unraveling the Sire's Origins
The Sire's origins remain shrouded in mystery. His first days are lost to time. He is thought to be the very first vampire. His age is beyond measure, with immense powers. His demeanor suggests he has seen better centuries.
He appears grotesque and decrepit, struggling to speak. He resembles an ancient relic more than a suave vampire. His unsettling look subverts traditional vampire glamour. He shows that even vampires face time's toll, albeit slowly.
Despite his state, The Sire commands respect from other vampires. They trace their lineage back to him. His appearances in the series mark significant events. He serves as a walking plot device, showing the rich history in "What We Do in the Shadows."
Jenna: From LARPer to... Vampire LARPer?
Jenna, played by Beanie Feldstein, adds delightful chaos to "What We Do in the Shadows." Initially, she is a naive LARPer who stumbles into vampire life, meant as dinner. Nadja shows rare compassion and turns her into a vampire instead. Jenna’s humorous journey into the undead world begins.
Vampire Virgin: Jenna's Transformation and Trials
Jenna's transformation lacks grace. She is clumsy and initially clueless about vampire rules and abilities. She starkly contrasts with the sophisticated vampires that guide her. Nadja reluctantly mentors Jenna through her new life with comedic results.
Jenna's LARPing experience recurs in humorous moments. She
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