Two breeds of the undead have populated horror cinema for over a century, but who said they need to be Earth-bound? Vampire Zombies …from Outer Space!, from director Michael Stasko, is a gimmicky throwback of the highest order. With a title like that, it needs little introduction, but basically, Dracula, who resides in the cosmos, has his fangs set on turning the residents of a small town into his personal army of vampire zombies.
Vampire Zombies …from Outer Space! likes to think it takes place in an “Ed Woodian” period of the 1950s, where Z-grade cinema has all but taken over popular culture, but the lowbrow humour mainly consists of gay jokes and often makes the plot and the setting seem incidental. Granted, the obviously fake flying saucers with strings attached are a nice touch, and the film is exceptionally well shot in beautiful black and white.
Naturally, there’s an eyes-only homage to the chiropractor of Ed Wood’s girlfriend, who famously stood in for Bela Lugosi in Plan 9 from Outer Space, but unfortunately, much of the humour failed to amuse. However, the perpetual chain-smoking and day-drinking were some of the better ongoing gags. I think if the jokes were less on the nose, the film would have worked a lot better overall. Although audiences who are not very familiar with the brand of schlock that’s being parodied will probably find more enjoyment.
VAMPIRE ZOMBIES… FROM SPACE! is available to rent or buy on digital platforms, including Apple TV, Prime Video, YouTube and more, from TODAY, December 24, thanks to Lightbulb Film Distribution!
VAMPIRE ZOMBIES …FROM OUTER SPACE
(2024, director: Michael Stasko)
★★★
stills coutesy of Walkden Entertainment
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