Watch Vampire Over London

Vampire Over London (also known as My Son, The Vampire) is a 1952 horror-comedy film that ingeniously blends the supernatural elements of vampires with a comedic twist. Directed by John E. Blakeley, the movie showcases the talents of beloved British comedian Arthur Lucan, the iconic horror legend Bela Lugosi, and the charismatic Dora Bryan. Together, they bring this entertaining tale to life.

Set in London during the early 1950s, the narrative follows the comedic misadventures of Arthur Lucan, a renowned music hall comedienne who portrays a character named Old Mother Riley. Old Mother Riley is a widowed washerwoman with a knack for getting caught up in unusual situations. Living with her daughter (played by Dora Bryan), Old Mother Riley's life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers that her deceased husband has risen from his grave as a vampire.

The sudden vampire outbreak in the city sparks chaos and panic among the residents of London, who fear for their lives. Meanwhile, Bela Lugosi portrays the enigmatic figure of Von Kridler, an eccentric scientist who has been secretly conducting experiments with vampires. His unorthodox methods involve training the creatures to become more civilized and fitting into modern society, rather than simply destroying them.

With the desperate desire to save her husband and put an end to the vampire infestation, Old Mother Riley reluctanly teams up with Von Kridler. Together, they embark on a hilarious, and at times perilous, journey across London, encountering a motley crew of eccentric characters along the way. Despite differing motives, the unlikely pair forms an amusing bond as they attempt to confront the nocturnal forces at play.

Vampire Over London excels in merging elements of horror, comedy, and even romance into a cohesive narrative. The film capitalizes on Bela Lugosi's well-established reputation as the legendary vampire Count Dracula while allowing him to display his comedic abilities. Lugosi's performance as the peculiar scientist adds depth and intrigue to the movie, contrasting against his earlier iconic portrayal of Dracula and showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Arthur Lucan shines in his role as Old Mother Riley, providing a larger-than-life comedic performance that perfectly complements the film's zany atmosphere. His charming and irreverent character, combined with a series of slapstick mishaps, injects laughter into scenes that would otherwise be ominous or foreboding. Lucan's remarkable comedic timing and physical comedy skills will leave audiences in stitches throughout the film.

Accompanying the talented duo is Dora Bryan, who delivers a delightful performance as Old Mother Riley's daughter, Kitty Riley. Bryan brings her unique charm and wit to the screen, embodying a rebellious yet caring daughter who finds herself reluctantly involved in her family's chaotic supernatural escapades.

Throughout Vampire Over London, the meticulous set designs capture the essence of London's gothic architecture, creating a moody and atmospheric backdrop. The film's cinematography further enhances the eerie ambiance, beautifully capturing both the film's comedic and horror elements. The juxtaposition of light-hearted comedy with the underlying darkness of vampirism creates a captivating viewing experience.

Vampire Over London is a true gem from the 1950s, blending horror and comedy in a way that is both entertaining and innovative. With its clever script, memorable performances, and a delightful fusion of genres, the film has stood the test of time. Whether a fan of Bela Lugosi's horror legacy, Arthur Lucan's comedic brilliance, or simply a lover of classic cinema, Vampire Over London is a must-watch for those seeking a light-hearted yet thrilling movie experience.

Vampire Over London is a 2010 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 3.8.