The Vourdalak, an eerie and suspenseful film directed by Adrien Beau, is set to hit theaters on June 28th. Based on the classic novella “The Family of the Vourdalak” by Aleksey Konstantinovich Tolstoy, this chilling tale promises to transport audiences back to old Europe, where legends of vampires and other creatures of the night once held sway.

Unearthing the Legends

Before Bram Stoker’s Dracula became synonymous with vampires, the folklore of Eastern Europe was rife with tales of the undead. Among these was the Vourdalak, a creature said to be a vampire that preys upon its own family members. Unlike the charismatic and seductive vampires of modern fiction, the Vourdalak was depicted as a grotesque and horrifying figure, driven by an insatiable thirst for blood.

Tolstoy’s novella, written in 1839, captured the essence of this dark folklore. The story follows a young Frenchman who seeks shelter in a remote village, only to discover that the family he is staying with harbors a terrifying secret. The Vourdalak legend, with its themes of family betrayal and the insidious nature of evil, proved to be a fertile ground for horror stories.

A Modern Adaptation

Director Beau, along with co-writer Hadrien Bouvier, has reimagined Tolstoy’s classic tale for a modern audience. The film, shot in atmospheric Super 16mm, promises to be a visually stunning and immersive experience. The cast, which includes Kacey Mottet Klein, Ariane Labed, Grégoire Colin, and Vassili Schneider, is sure to deliver powerful performances that will bring the chilling story to life.

A Return to Classic Horror

In an era dominated by CGI monsters and jump scares, The Vourdalak offers a refreshing return to the roots of horror. The film draws inspiration from the gothic literature of the 19th century, evoking a sense of dread and suspense that is both timeless and terrifying.

If you’re a fan of classic horror stories, or if you’re simply looking for a unique and spine-chilling cinematic experience, The Vourdalak is a film you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for June 28th and prepare to be transported to a world where the line between the living and the undead is blurred, and where the darkness lurking within families can be more terrifying than any monster.