review by Derek Deskins
Let the Right One In 2008
Reviewed Feb 01, 2012
Derek Deskins’s review:
This Swedish film burst on the scene in 2008, when people were first being bitten (yeah, that’s a pun) by the vampire bug. Let the Right One In, based on the novel of the same name, offered an original take on the vampire genre when everyone else was knee deep in cliches.
The film tells the story of awkward 12-year-old boy Oskar as he develops a friendship with centuries-old vampire child Eli. These two are the focus, but there are other complexities that add to the rewatchability (another word you should feel free to use) of the film. One of these complexities is a Renfield type character that looks over Eli and helps her to acquire the blood that is necessary to her survival. The entire story is filmed in such a deliberate and caring way that you can’t help but be drawn in. Don’t worry, this is still very much a vampire film, and as such, there is some dramatic bloodshed. A scene towards the end that is seen entirely from the bottom of a pool will make your jaw drop. There is also an American remake that is currently in production starring Chloe Moretz, Kodi Smit-McPhee and Richard Jenkins under the title Let Me In. Not only is every minute spent watching this film worthwhile, but you will sound extra smart when you casually drop it into conversation.
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