Review of “Blood: The Last Vampire” (2009): A Stylish Action Horror
“Blood: The Last Vampire,” directed by Chris Nahon and released in 2009, is a live-action adaptation of the popular 2000 anime film of the same name. The film blends elements of horror, action, and supernatural thriller, offering a visually striking yet narratively uneven experience. Starring Gianna Jun (also known as Jun Ji-hyun), the movie aims to bring the anime’s dark and atmospheric tale to a broader audience.
Plot Overview
The story is set in post-World War II Japan and follows Saya (Gianna Jun), a half-human, half-vampire warrior who hunts demons. Working for a secret government agency, Saya is sent to a military base to investigate a series of gruesome murders. There, she discovers a plot involving Onigen (Koyuki), the most powerful of all vampires, and must confront her own past to defeat the evil threatening humanity.
Performance and Direction
Gianna Jun delivers a commendable performance as Saya, capturing the character’s stoic determination and lethal combat skills. Her portrayal brings a mix of vulnerability and strength, making Saya a compelling protagonist. Koyuki, as the enigmatic Onigen, provides a menacing presence, though her character is underdeveloped.
Director Chris Nahon effectively captures the film’s action sequences, which are choreographed with precision and energy. However, the narrative suffers from pacing issues and a lack of depth in character development. While the film’s visual style is impressive, the storytelling doesn’t always match its aesthetic ambition.
Cinematography and Special Effects
The cinematography by Hang-Sang Poon enhances the film’s dark and moody atmosphere. The use of shadows, vibrant colors, and dynamic camera angles contribute to the film’s stylish look. The special effects, particularly the fight scenes and CGI monsters, are well-executed, though some critics have noted that the CGI can be inconsistent in quality.
Themes and Symbolism
“Blood: The Last Vampire” explores themes of identity, vengeance, and the battle between good and evil. Saya’s internal conflict as a half-vampire struggling with her human side adds depth to her character. The film also touches on themes of isolation and the search for belonging, as Saya navigates a world where she is both hunter and hunted.
Critical Reception
The film received mixed reviews from critics. While praised for its action sequences and visual style, it was criticized for its weak script and lack of character development. On Rotten Tomatoes, “Blood: The Last Vampire” holds a low approval rating, reflecting its divisive reception .
- Rotten Tomatoes: The film has a low critic score, indicating mixed to negative reviews.
- Metacritic: Similarly, the film’s Metascore reflects a generally unfavorable reception, with critics highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses.
Streaming Availability
For those interested in watching “Blood: The Last Vampire,” the film is available on various streaming platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
- Tubi: Available for free with ads.
Conclusion
“Blood: The Last Vampire” is a visually engaging action horror film that will appeal to fans of the original anime and those who enjoy stylish, martial arts-driven narratives. While the film struggles with pacing and depth, Gianna Jun’s performance and the well-choreographed action scenes make it a worthwhile watch for genre enthusiasts.
