With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, fans of the horror genre with a romantic twist have a fresh cinematic offering to add to their watchlist. Drained, a London-based vampire film from British filmmakers Peter Stylianou and Sean Cronin, has been acquired by Level 33 Entertainment and will make its North American debut on premium digital platforms, including Amazon, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home.
The film, which premiered at the renowned Screamfest Horror Film Festival in October 2024, promises to captivate viewers with its dark, intoxicating narrative. Co-directed and produced by Cronin and Stylianou, Drained is a supernatural horror that explores the destructive allure of love through the lens of vampirism. It was filmed in the heart of London and is a co-production by Magnificent Films, House 54, and RG Films.
Set against the neon-lit backdrop of London, the story follows Thomas, a jobless post-graduate concept artist, who falls under the spell of Rhea, a mysterious woman with a deadly secret—she is a vampire. As their twisted romance unfolds, Thomas’s physical and mental health deteriorates, leading him down a path of self-destruction. The film paints a grim portrait of obsession and addiction, with modern societal forces acting as metaphorical vampires in Thomas’s life.
Starring Ruaridh Aldington (Dirty Boy) and Madalina Bellariu Ion (Dampyr) as the doomed lovers, the film also features a talented supporting cast, including Craig Conway (Dog Soldiers), Angela Dixon (Never Let Go), and Andrew Lyle-Pinnock, among others. The film’s special makeup effects are handled by Francesca Reidie, with production design by Ellie Campbell and cinematography by Daniel Patrick Vaughan.
In an exclusive preview of the film’s aesthetic, Cronin described Drained as a “mesmerizing blend of darkness and beauty.” The film’s neon-noir style evokes the moody, rain-soaked streets of London at night, while its synth-heavy soundtrack, reminiscent of Drive’s 1980s-inspired score, adds to the film’s atmospheric tension.
Stylianou elaborated on the deeper themes embedded within the film, noting that Drained isn’t just about vampirism; it also critiques the addictive nature of contemporary society. “Just as Thomas becomes ensnared in Rhea’s world, modern life presents its own metaphorical vampires,” he explained, citing the pervasive influence of social media, substance abuse, and other self-destructive habits as examples. “The film explores why individuals willingly give themselves to these draining forces.”
As Valentine’s Day approaches, Drained offers a fresh take on the genre, blending romance, horror, and societal commentary into a chilling yet compelling narrative. Fans can sink their teeth into the exclusive trailer now, and prepare for its North American VOD release.
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