Movie Review: ‘Oops! You’re A Vampire’

Review by Hunter Miele

In the realm of indie horror, where low production value often accompanies creative freedom, “Oops, You’re a Vampire” emerges as a dark and comedic gem. An instant must-watch for any B horror fan, the film is the deserved winner of multiple awards, including Best Director, Best Acting and Best Make-up and was just released on demand by Lion Heart Distribution. Written and directed by Phil Messerer (also known as “Philly the Kid”) “Oops, You’re a Vampire” makes a name for itself in the crowded genre with exceptional acting, humor and wholesomeness.

The film opens with a narrator describing vampire mythology from an ancient city in the Mayan empire. The narration is both creepy and campy and sets the tone for the film perfectly. We’re then introduced to Lara and Helen, twin sisters that live vastly opposing lives: Lara is a goth who enjoys strolling through her town’s local cemetery and conducting spells at her shrine dedicated to Anne Rice while Helen is a blonde-haired, church-goer and the most popular girl at school. The two sisters live with their religious, divorced mother and their older, medical student brother. The family’s dynamic is quirky and wholesome, and the fantastic performances from each actor help to make them quickly lovable and charming in all their relatable flaws.

After an argument with Helen, Lara uses her knowledge of black magic and vampires to cast a curse on her sister. Helen then becomes violently ill and succumbs to her illness in a matter of days. Lara is devastated that her powers caused her sister’s untimely demise. While the grief-stricken family mourns the passing of beloved Helen, she returns alive (well… somewhat) on their doorstep after devouring the blood of the mortician that was attempting to perform her autopsy. After they realize that Helen has indeed been stricken with vampirism, the family must work together to provide meals for their loved one, essentially turning them into a clumsy clan of serial killers.

“Oops, You’re a Vampire” includes a host of hilarious scenes, one including a couple of Mormon missionaries that come knocking at the most deadly house in the neighborhood. The humor and carnage is accompanied by a hearty dose of wholesomeness that gives the film a perfect balance and leaves the viewer feeling bonded to each character.

Despite its restricted budget, “Oops, You’re a Vampire”’s special effects are realistic and gory. The sound and camera quality are severely lacking, which can be jarring initially, but after some time the film’s low production value will only increase its charm and feel fitting to its plot. Not only are the special effects impressive, but the talent and dedication that is easily apparent in each actor’s performance brings the film to cult classic level. With its gleefully absurd humor, over-the-top gore and a cast that fully embraces the madness, this B-horror gem is a dream come true to fans of the genre.