Looking for a good vampire movie or series? You've come to the right place. As a die-hard Dracula enthusiast, I have seen more vampire movies than what most would consider healthy, and there are a lot of questionable vampire flicks out there. Most curated lists you'll find will feature the same titles over and over again, and so I put together a short must-see list that doesn't deviate enormously from the mainstays, but hopefully presents some fresh ideas if you're in search of something new.

Every artist who steps in front of a camera or tells their story for the benefit and entertainment of others has tremendous courage and committment to their craft, and I have nothing but respect for each and every one. Cheers to all of the fanged storytellers and actors who have kept this genre alive... or undead.

Favorite Dracula Movie
Dracula (1931)

Favorite Dracula Series
BBC Dracula (2020)

Favorite Dracula Actor
Claes Bang—BBC Dracula

  • Dracula (1931)

    You can't go wrong with the original. This movie has way more charm than you might think, with a standout performance from Dwight Frye (Renfield). If you’re on the fence because you’re not keen on black and white movies, seriously—give it a try. This film aged beautifully.

    As one of the earliest films in the genre, Dracula is credited not just with establishing Universal Studios as the leader in horror, but the film is also credited for saving Universal Studios.

  • BBC Dracula

    A 3-part series that kicks off with a creative retelling of Dracula's encounter with Jonathan Harker. While it is a faithful adaptation of the beloved story, the writers worked in some great twists to spice things up. Episode two expands on Stoker's novel by following Dracula on his voyage aboard the Demeter. Finally, episode three is an original—albeit divisive—expansion that brings the story to a close in the 21st century. Each episode features outstanding performances, beautiful sets and costumes, and a unique take on Dracula's story.

  • Claes Bang

    The Daddy of all Draculas. Suave, menacing, and charmingly cheeky, Claes is the very quintessence of Count Dracula. He’s handsome and chic, and his infinite charisma leaves little doubt how he’s able to seduce hapless victims—but beneath that crooked grin is an absolute fiend who feeds indiscriminately and unapologetically.

Top performances as Dracula

Bela Lugosi

Richard Roxburgh

Adam Sandler

Christopher Lee

Leslie Nielsen

Honorable Mention: Jason Segel (Forgetting Sarah Marshall) & creature design for The Last Voyage of the Demeter

Favorite Vampire Movie
TIE! Nosferatu (2024) & Sinners

Favorite Vampire Series
AMC's Interview with the Vampire

Favorite Vampire Actor
Sam Reid—Interview with the Vampire

  • Nosferatu & Sinners

    It's a good time to be a vampire fan. Released just under four months apart, these two films have greatly raised the bar for vampire flicks. These are both dark, gritty, compelling stories told by some of the greatest filmmakers of our generation—both are must-watches for any respectable vampire lover. 

  • AMC's Interview with the Vampire

    If you know, you know. If you don’t: get out of here and go watch Interview with the Vampire on AMC/Netflix. The lack of buzz about this series is borderline criminal. Be ready for blood, sex, and laughs—and you'd better be ready to cry. The cast is completely packed with outstanding artists who brought everything to their performances. 

  • Sam Reid

    This man was born to play Lestat. He'll make you swoon, he'll enrage you, he'll make you fall in love with him, and then he'll rip your heart out with just four little words. Sam Reid is Lestat, his very essence brought to life. 

Top performances as a vampire

Rebecca Ferguson
Doctor Sleep

Colin Farrell
Fright Night (2011)

Assad Zaman
Interview with the Vampire

Elena Anaya
Van Helsing

Kayvan Novak
What We Do in the Shadows

Honorable Mentions: Ben Daniels (Interview with the Vampire) and creature designs for The Strain & Nosferatu (2024)