A vampire’s loner lifestyle is thrown into disarray when a teenager shows up claiming to be his daughter, and she’s got the fangs to prove it. On a road trip across America’s blacktops, they decide how to sink their teeth into family life.
Blood Relatives – Photo Credit: Shudder
Blood Relatives was written and directed by Noah Segan, who is also in the starring role. Alongside Segan, we find co-star Victoria Moroles as Jane, Akasha Villalobos as Hilda, and C.L. Simpson as Sylvie.
Blood Relatives – Photo Credit: Shudder
Firstly, we need to get something out of the way before we jump in here. This is not going to be an extensive review because this wasn’t really a horror film. Sure, it has a handful of gory scenes and the main characters are vampires, but Blood Relatives is a sheep in wolf’s clothing.
Blood Relatives – Photo Credit: Shudder
Blood Relatives is more a family drama/coming of age film that explores the ins and outs of a complicated family life. It features themes like growing up (for both characters) and taking responsibility for one’s actions. It also looks at what it means to be family and how important family is to us individually. The film is incredibly thoughtful and quite touching—and that’s why it isn’t a horror film.
Blood Relatives – Photo Credit: Shudder
Aside from the one “accidental” kill, most of the bloodshed takes place off screen. Sure, people die, but the whole blood-sucking vampire thing is more a gimmick in the film and an excuse for Francis’ (Segan) actions than it is the main focus. It’s something for the pair to bond over; to realise that they really are meant to be together.
Blood Relatives – Photo Credit: Shudder
I need to be clear that I didn’t dislike the film because it wasn’t a horror movie. It’s a beautiful movie regardless and one that I would highly recommend to almost anyone. I just dislike it when a film’s trailer makes it out to be something it isn’t. I went in expecting a horror comedy, but then again, maybe the onus is on me for projecting expectations.
Blood Relatives – Photo Credit: Shudder
Blood Relatives is totally worth your time though, horror or not. There’s something for everyone and the characters are fangtastic (not sorry). The film streams tomorrow exclusively on Shudder. Check out the trailer and the artwork below. Thanks for reading and as always, stay sordid.
