It seems that the vampire genre is back in full force. From TV series to motion pictures and countless novels, it's hip to be a bloodsucker. Fortunately, there is nothing trending about Let The Right One In. Based on a novel, the film is rich in depth and has some of the best acting ever seen from a cast of newcomers.

Perhaps one of the most unique horror films in recent years, Let The Right One In is barely a horror film. In fact, it would better be described as a coming of age tale with a Goth twist.  Even that isn't a truly accurate description. But what is accurate is the film is engaging, original and very good.  Taking place in Stockholm in the early 80s, Oskar (Kåre Hedebrant) seems to have two left feet and clearly doesn't fit in at school or in his apartment complex.  His home life is painful and he is viciously bullied by his peers. Without a friend in the world, one night sitting alone on the playground, Oskar meets Eli. Eli seems equally awkward and the pair start a very weird, almost one sided relationship as Oskar quickly attaches to the ambiguous youth. Eli doesn't seem keen on the new friendship, but when her caretaker screws up his blood supply assignment, this young looking vampire has no one to turn but Oskar. The friendship grows and through Eli, Oskar learns to stand up and fend for himself.  The new found confidence causes trouble as does the Oskar's love for Eli.

With great visuals, moody setting and a compelling story, it's hard to turn away from Let the Right One In. At different times in the movie it's easy to cheer for not only Oskar, but Eli.  Her monstrous side is terrifying as it is fascinating.  While it is never clear if she is stuck in a child's body or if she is really female, the vampire still seems surprisingly helpless considering its 200 years of life experience. Oskar is portrayed competently and it is hard not to identify with the character as we all have been bullied before. None of us, however, has ever had the help of a vampire and it does put a very interesting spin on things.

The film's use of mood is amazing and even though the film contains horrific moments, Let the Right One In breaks the horror film's mold by focusing on the realistic moments of violence, bullies, maturity, love, dependence and independence. Some may find the films slow pace to be boring, but those looking for a very compelling and sometimes even heart-warming film will be surprised by Let The Right One In. It needs to be seen to be believed. 

Be warned: There is a bit of controversy over the American subtitles/dubbing as the distributors did change things in for the American audience. Also, Hollywood is working on having a remake in theaters by 2010. Either way the film has or will be Americanized. That doesn't stop the film from being a worthy viewing and you might as well catch the original before everything gets nuts over the Hollywood-flavored, Twilight-esque nonsense.

Release Date: October 24th, 2008
Studio:
Magnet / Magnolia Home Ent.
Genre: Foreign/Horror/Suspense
Rated: R      1 hr 54 mins

CAST:

Lina Leandersson: Eli
Kåre Hedebrant: Oskar
Per Ragnar: Håkan
Henrik Dahl: Erik
Karin Bergquist: Yvonne
Peter Carlberg: Lacke
Ika Nord: Virginia
Karl-Robert Lindgren: Gösta
Anders T Peedu: Morgan
Pale Olofsson: Larry

Let the Right One In

August 15, 2009

Reviewer: Rottenbucher

DIRECTOR:

Tomas Alfredson

*Comments:

*By clicking "Submit" you agree to the following Terms of Use. You agree not to post any material that is obscene, slanderous, or threatening, or that may violate any law of your country of origin or the United States or of international law. Should you wish to restrict viewing of your email address by third parties, you must select "Hide My Email." You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Metal Psalter from any claims, actions, suits, damages, or other costs arising out of any breach of these Terms of Use.