Interview With the Vampire is back with an incredible second season. Continuing with the story originally set out by Anne Rice, the plot moves around Europe (first Romania, then Paris) this time around. Viewers also have a time-jump to the 1940's. The relationship between Lestat (Sam Reid), Louis (Jacob Anderson) and Claudia (newcomer Delainey Hayles) remains, as ever, a hot mess (but also a thoroughly enjoyable one).
With the first episode, you are treated to some backstory in Eastern Europe. Here Claudia and Louis learn more about their vampire cousins. There is a significant difference between New World vampires and Old, a lesson taught in a shocking manner. Louis and Claudia are educated about the origins of their existence in such a way that they don't really feel like asking more questions. This section offers some great exposition into the world that Rice has created and is enjoyable to those fans who missed these scenes in the film adaptation.
After this, the setting turns to Paris. This season we are introduced to fresh characters, especially through the ominous Théâtre des Vampires. Although having previously met Armand (Assad Zaman) in season one, his character is more fully developed here. He's powerful, formidable, and has intense feelings for Louis. The actors here are great with their roles, oftentimes giving the most minor glances and yet conveying so much, often to hilarious effect.
The relationship between Louis and Lestat remains at the forefront. Louis struggles mightily with his unresolved feelings, whilst being serenaded by Armand. Claudia is more defiant, yearning for independence from Lestat. She doesn't want to be beholden to anyone.
It should be noted that Hayles, replacing Bailey Bass, has done an excellent job with her role as the eternally youthful Claudia. It is always tough when actors are replaced during a television series, for both fans and production. However, Delainey brings forth such character in the tragic Claudia that it's thrilling to watch. Her Claudia refuses to be a victim, even when the odds are stacked against her.
Soon, of course, it all comes to a hell of a grand finale. What follows are some of the most emotional and violent moments of the show so far. Characters face difficult decisions, and the audience are left wondering what happens next. Viewers should feel satisfied with knowing that season three has already been green-lit, with hints that we will see Lestat in his rock-star era (sadly without the great Aaliyah this time).
This latest season deepens the characters' worlds in its own gothic horror way. It is an emotional rollercoaster, but the fine performances across the board and thrilling storylines make it a worthwhile watch. Fans of the series should be so lucky that the production has taken great care in ensuring a quality dramatisation of Rice's work.
Special Features:
- Pre-premiere Inside Look.
- Behind-the-scenes.
- “Show Me More” Episode.
- Episode Insiders.
The DVD/Blu-Ray of season two of Interview With the Vampire was released on 7th October 2024.
Podcast
