Eddie Murphy's 'Vampire in Brooklyn' at 30: A Misunderstood Gem?
Unveiling the Secrets of a 30-Year-Old Mystery
Eddie Murphy, a legend in his own right, has had his fair share of ups and downs in his career. But here's a twist: a movie once considered his worst might just be a hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered.
'Vampire in Brooklyn,' directed by the iconic Wes Craven, was a bold move for Murphy back in the day. Following the critical and commercial disappointment of 'Beverly Hills Cop III,' Murphy, one of Hollywood's biggest stars, needed a comeback. However, 'Vampire in Brooklyn' didn't quite fit the bill, at least not initially.
The movie's reception was less than stellar. It failed to match the success of its predecessor, and over time, it faded into obscurity, overshadowed by Murphy's later flop, 'The Adventures of Pluto Nash.' Even an oral history of the film's making, published on its 20th anniversary, has been largely forgotten, accessible only through the Internet Archive.
But here's where it gets controversial: the very factors that led to its initial failure might be the very reasons why it's worth a second look. The oral history paints a picture of a film made with conflicting motivations, a blend of gothic horror, comedy, and action that left audiences and critics confused. Was it a serious drama, a horror flick, or a comedic vampire tale?
Despite the confusion, 'Vampire in Brooklyn' offers an intriguing, unique experience. The story follows Max (Murphy), possibly the world's last vampire, as he tries to turn Rita (Angela Bassett), an unsuspecting New York cop, into his kind. It's a dark, twisted take on the classic vampire tale, with a hint of romance and a lot of Murphy's signature charm.
Murphy's performance is a departure from his usual comedic roles, but it's not without its merits. His makeup transformations, especially as a preacher and an Italian-American criminal, are standout moments. And while the movie might not be a laugh riot, it has its funny moments, especially when compared to the more hostile and listless 'Beverly Hills Cop III.'
Interestingly, 'Vampire in Brooklyn' shares some similarities with Murphy's romantic comedy 'Boomerang.' Both films feature Murphy fixated on a woman, and both take his relationships seriously, despite the silly elements. It's almost like a dark reflection of 'Boomerang,' with a predominantly Black cast taking on a genre often dominated by white actors.
And this is the part most people miss: 'Vampire in Brooklyn' offers a unique perspective on monster movies, providing a platform for a diverse cast to shine in a genre that has often been exclusive. It's a refreshing take, even if it doesn't quite measure up to Murphy's later successes like 'The Nutty Professor' or Craven's masterpiece, 'Scream.'
So, is 'Vampire in Brooklyn' a cult classic in the making? Perhaps its quick disappearance from the public eye was for the best. Maybe it's more enjoyable as a hidden gem, a refreshing change of pace that offers a unique take on the vampire genre.
What do you think? Is 'Vampire in Brooklyn' worth a watch, or is it better left forgotten? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion!
