Introduction
What We Do in the Shadows is a popular television show created by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, which has garnered a large fan base since its debut in 2019. The show follows a group of vampires who live together in Staten Island, New York, and documents their attempts to adapt to modern life while still trying to stay true to their vampire heritage. This article will explore the various aspects of the show, including its characters, vampire lore, settings, and humor.
Character Analysis: Exploring the Characters of ‘What We Do in the Shadows’
The show features four main characters: Nandor the Relentless (Kayvan Novak), Laszlo Cravensworth (Matt Berry), Nadja (Natasia Demetriou), and Guillermo (Harvey Guillen). Each character has unique traits and quirks that make them stand out from one another. Nandor is the oldest and most traditional of the vampires, often struggling to understand modern technology and customs. Laszlo is a flamboyant vampire with a penchant for partying, while Nadja is a seductive and cunning vampire who often uses her charms to get what she wants. Finally, Guillermo is Nandor’s servant and apprentice, who is eager to learn about being a vampire but is often frustrated by his master’s reluctance to teach him.
The characters’ dynamics are a key part of the show’s appeal, as they often clash with each other due to their different personalities. Nandor and Laszlo often butt heads due to their opposing views on how vampires should live, while Nadja and Guillermo often find themselves at odds due to their differing levels of experience with vampire lore. Despite their differences, however, the characters ultimately come together when faced with a common enemy or challenge, showing their loyalty and friendship to one another.
Exploring the Vampire Lore Behind ‘What We Do in the Shadows’
The show also features its own version of vampire lore, which differs from traditional vampire stories. For instance, the vampires in the show have various weaknesses, such as garlic and sunlight, but they can also be killed by mundane objects like kitchen knives and stakes. They also have the ability to transform into animals, such as bats and rats, as well as the ability to control humans through their hypnotic gaze. However, these powers are often used for comedic effect, such as when Laszlo attempts to use his hypnotic gaze to make Guillermo do his bidding.
The show also subverts traditional vampire stereotypes by having the vampires struggle to adjust to modern life. For example, they often forget to pay their rent or bills, and they are unfamiliar with technology like smartphones and computers. This creates humorous situations, such as when Nandor attempts to use a computer for the first time and struggles to understand how it works. In this way, the show uses vampire lore to create humor and satire, while still staying true to the traditional vampire mythos.
A Look at the Locations Featured in ‘What We Do in the Shadows’
The show also features a variety of locations, both real and fictional. The main location is the vampires’ home in Staten Island, which serves as a hub for the characters’ adventures. Other locations include the vampire council’s headquarters in Brooklyn, the local bar where the vampires hang out, and the mysterious underground tunnels where they often encounter supernatural creatures. The show also features various historical sites and locations in the United States, such as the Statue of Liberty and the White House. These locations help to establish the show’s setting and add an extra layer of authenticity to the story.
The show also uses its settings to create humor. For example, the vampires often get into amusing situations when they visit a human establishment, such as a nightclub or restaurant. These scenes often involve misunderstandings due to the vampires’ unfamiliarity with modern customs, creating humorous situations that the audience can relate to.
Examining the Humor in ‘What We Do in the Shadows’
The show also features various types of humor, from subtle sarcasm to over-the-top absurdity. The show often employs satire to make fun of modern culture, such as when the vampires struggle to understand technology or when they attempt to fit in with humans. The show also makes use of physical comedy, such as when the vampires are forced to flee from an angry mob or when they try to hide from the sun. Finally, the show often relies on absurdist humor, such as when the vampires find themselves in bizarre and unexpected situations.
Overall, the show’s humor is often exaggerated and exaggerated, making it both hilarious and relatable. The show’s use of satire and absurdity allows it to poke fun at both human and vampire culture, creating a unique blend of comedy that appeals to a wide range of viewers.
Comparing ‘What We Do in the Shadows’ to Other Vampiric TV Shows
When compared to other vampiric TV shows, such as True Blood and The Vampire Diaries, What We Do in the Shadows stands out due to its unique take on vampire lore. Unlike traditional vampire stories, the show does not focus on romance or horror, instead opting for a more lighthearted and humorous approach. The show also features a diverse cast of characters, all of whom are flawed and likable in their own ways. Additionally, the show often uses its settings and vampire lore to create humorous situations that viewers can relate to.
Overall, What We Do in the Shadows is a unique and refreshing take on the vampire genre. Its blend of humor, satire, and absurdity make it stand out from other vampiric TV shows, while its characters and settings help to create a believable and immersive world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, What We Do in the Shadows is a unique and entertaining show that stands out from other vampire stories. Its characters, vampire lore, locations, and humor make it an enjoyable watch for viewers of all ages. The show’s use of satire, absurdity, and its diverse cast of characters help to create a unique and compelling world that viewers can easily immerse themselves in.
