Plot: What’s it about?
When two gorgeous bisexual female vampires stalk the English countryside in search of men to lure back to their lair, seduce them, then drink their blood, you know this is gonna be one awesome movie. These two luscious ladies seem to have a good operation going, with no shortage of victims and the red stuff. I use the terms “victims” in jest, since I think most men would line up to take part in these blood laced orgies with two breathtaking ladies like these. The formula has worked well for the blood nymphs up to this point, but the next trip for fresh blood turns out to be more than they expected. A young, innocent couple wanders into the savage lair of these buxom vampires, which triggers the most passionate and lustful experience any of the participants has ever been involved in. But as with every encounter the two vamps have, their goal is not only sexual satisfaction, but also the sweet nectar which gives them life, blood. While no one will forget the lurid and amazing happenings, will the participants be able to reproduce the efforts in the future?
I feel the need to commend Anchor Bay for releasing this title at all, let alone with such a wonderful treatment. I think most studios would pass this right over, or release a mediocre version to the public. As such, I wanted to take a few lines here and thank Anchor Bay for releasing another cult classic we wouldn’t have seen otherwise, and giving it the treatment it deserves. I have to admit, this is a film driven by sex and violence, and I love every second of it. If a movie is going to use sex and violence, then by all means, do it right, and this film does it perfectly. There is flesh around every corner and plenty of blood soaked scenes as well, with many scenes using both aspects for an incredible blend. I have to agree with the packaging, the two female leads are the sexiest vampires to appear on the silver screen, and this is without a doubt, the most sexually charged and effective vampire movie of all time, at least in my opinion. If you’re offended by nudity, sexual natured scenes, or blood, keep away, but if you like the above elements, this movie is sure to please your tastes. I’ve said it many times before, but I feel like I should say it once more…Long Live Anchor Bay!
The director of this classic, Joseph Larraz, is a master of the erotic horror genre, and has several other genre staples under his belt, such as Madame Olga’s Pupils, Black Candles, and The Violation of the Bitch, among many others. While Larraz’ choice in film may not suit everyone, those who follow the genre know he is a master of the style, and his movies are a treat for the eyes. The task of playing the most attractive and alluring female vampires ever to grace the cinema’s screen isn’t easy, but the actresses who claim that title do the job quite well. Marianne Morris (It’s Not The Size That Counts) and Playboy centerfold Anulka Dziubinska (The Likely Lads) not only bring their bodies, which would have been enough, they also show some style and grace here, which places them as the sexiest vampires to ever walk the Hollywood screens. It’s a shame they didn’t make more movies of this genre, but we always have this one, so take solace in that. The supporting cast in this movie includes Murray Brown (Fiona), Sally Faulkner (Deadly Females, Bird of Prey), Michael Byrne (Tomorrow Never Dies, Battlefield Earth), and Brian Deacon (Triple Echo).
Video: How does it look?
Vampyres is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. Given the age and origins of this film, it is nothing short of amazing how good this transfer looks. The print is pristine, with few flecks and no signs of grain at all, which is a feat in itself. The colors follow a more natural scope, so while the colors may appear muted, this is intentional and not a flaw in the visual transfer. The flesh tones are natural and distortion free, which is good since the movie shows plenty of it. Some scenes display contrast which is a little too dark, but the degree is minor, and detail is not lost. If only all cult classics were handled like this…
Audio: How does it sound?
The audio is presented via the original mono track, which provides a surprisingly good audio experience. While the audio is not as powerful as a full surround track, it does offer well defined elements and an above average mono track. The dialogue is crisp and clear, with no volume issues and the mono trademark hiss is also not present.
Supplements: What are the extras?
While this is not labeled as a special edition, it does offer many excellent supplements. I was very pleased to find a running commentary with director Joseph Larraz and producer Brian Smedley-Aston. This track offers some interesting information about this erotic cult classic. If you’re a follower of this film, this track is a divine addition. The disc also includes a talent file on Larraz, the U.S. and international trailers, and a still photo gallery, which shows some of the more revealing shots from the film.
