Universe
What We Do In The Shadows Franchise
Overview
What We Do In The Shadows is a comedic horror franchise that follows a group of ancient vampires navigating modern life while maintaining their nocturnal habits. The series blends absurdity with supernatural tropes, showcasing the day-to-day misadventures of its undead roommates. It has evolved from a cult film into a multi-season television series and a feature film, captivating audiences with its satirical take on vampire lore.
In depth
What We Do In The Shadows begins with a 2014 New Zealand mockumentary film that parodies the conventions of vampire movies while simultaneously celebrating the idiosyncrasies of vampire life in a contemporary setting. The film follows three centuries-old vampires—Nandor, Laszlo, and Nadja—who have taken up residence in a cramped apartment in Wellington, navigating the modern world with a mix of bewilderment and disdain.
The franchise expands into a television series that premiered in 2014 on the UK's Channel 4 before moving to Facebook Watch and later to FX. It retains the mockumentary format, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the vampires’ daily routines, their interactions with a human housekeeper named Moonee, and their attempts to adapt to 21st-century technology. The series deepens character development while maintaining the comedic absurdity that made the original film a cult hit.
In 2019, a feature film adaptation was released, bringing together characters from the original film and the TV series while introducing new adversaries and mythological lore. The film explores the vampires’ fear of a looming apocalypse, the threat of human persecution, and the internal politics of their undead community, all while delivering sharp humor and heartfelt moments.
The universe’s charm lies in its clever juxtaposition of gothic tropes and modern satire, allowing the audience to laugh at the absurdities of vampire etiquette while also reflecting on themes of belonging, identity, and the passage of time. Its appeal extends across demographics, resonating with fans of horror, comedy, and quirky ensemble storytelling.
The franchise has inspired a range of merchandise, fan conventions, and spin-off media, cementing its status as a beloved cult classic within the supernatural genre. Its enduring popularity demonstrates the power of blending genre conventions with fresh, comedic storytelling.
The series continues to explore new narrative arcs, such as the introduction of a vampire priest and the exploration of interspecies relationships, ensuring that the universe remains dynamic and relevant to contemporary audiences.