Watch Uncle Was a Vampire

Uncle Was a Vampire, released in 1959, is a delightful Italian comedy horror film directed by Steno. Starring Renato Rascel, Sylva Koscina, and Lia Zoppelli, this vintage gem takes audiences on a whimsical yet spooky adventure that blends humor, romance, and the supernatural. The story revolves around a timid man named Augusto (Renato Rascel) who works as a librarian in a small village. Augusto is mild-mannered and often overlooked, but his life takes an unexpected turn when he inherits a mysterious castle in Scotland from his late uncle. Little does he know, this castle holds a dark secret that will change his life forever.

Upon arriving at the castle, Augusto discovers that his uncle was not just an ordinary man but a vampire! Faced with this shocking revelation, Augusto is initially terrified but soon realizes that the castle and its residents are no threat to him. In fact, he becomes quite fond of his newfound family, including his beautiful cousin Lisetta (Sylva Koscina) and an alluring vampire maid named Giuditta (Lia Zoppelli).

As Augusto settles into his new role as the lord of the castle, he discovers that his uncle's vampire family members are actually a gentle and quirky bunch. Rather than residing in the shadows, the vampires have embraced the modern world and are determined to lead ordinary lives. This fresh and comedic take on vampire folklore sets the stage for a host of hilarious situations and misunderstandings.

Augusto's idyllic new life takes a turn when vampire hunters arrive in town. Led by Professor Van Bloed (played by the talented Alberto Bonucci), they are determined to rid the world of vampires once and for all. Unbeknownst to them, however, the vampires they seek are not the bloodthirsty creatures portrayed in horror stories, but instead lovable misfits trying to live a peaceful coexistence.

With the arrival of the vampire hunters, chaos ensues as Augusto and his newfound family desperately try to maintain their secret while avoiding the clutches of the pesky Van Bloed and his determined team. As misunderstandings and mishaps pile up, the film builds tension and humor, leading to an entertaining climax that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Uncle Was a Vampire is a visually stunning film that captures the essence of gothic horror with a lighthearted twist. The atmospheric black-and-white cinematography beautifully showcases the captivating castle, adding an air of mystery and enchantment to the film. Additionally, the delightful performances from the talented cast infuse the story with charm and comedic timing, making it a joy to watch.

Renato Rascel effortlessly portrays the likable and timid Augusto, who undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the film. Sylva Koscina brings elegance and charisma to her role as Lisetta, capturing the attention of both Augusto and the audience. Lia Zoppelli shines as Giuditta, effortlessly blending seductiveness and humor. The chemistry between the actors is palpable and adds depth to the film's characters.

Uncle Was a Vampire is a delightful time capsule of classic Italian cinema, blending supernatural elements with humor and romance. Director Steno masterfully balances the contrasting genres, creating a unique and unforgettable film experience. Whether you are a fan of comedy, horror, or romance, this movie promises thrills, laughs, and a touch of old-world charm.

So sit back, prepare to be charmed, and join Augusto on his extraordinary journey as he embraces his family's supernatural legacy. Uncle Was a Vampire will take you on an adventure filled with humor, romance, and a newfound appreciation for even the quirkiest of family members.

Uncle Was a Vampire is a 1959 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.0.