What Is "What We Do In The Shadows 2014" About?

“What We Do In The Shadows 2014” is a hilarious mockumentary that peeks into the mundane and chaotic lives of a group of vampire flatmates. At WHAT.EDU.VN, we understand your curiosity about cult-classic films and we’re here to provide you the answers you need quickly. Dive into the dark comedy and discover a world where vampires struggle with modern life.

1. What Makes “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Unique?

The film’s mockumentary style and witty humor, offering a fresh and comedic take on the vampire genre, sets it apart. This approach allows for relatable situations and absurd comedy, resonating with a broad audience, making “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” a memorable cinematic experience. The movie avoids the clichés of the genre while still respecting the source material.

2. What Is the Plot of “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

“What We Do in the Shadows 2014” follows the daily lives of Viago, Vladislav, Deacon, and Petyr, a group of vampire roommates living in Wellington, New Zealand, as they navigate the challenges of modern life, such as paying rent, managing chores, and dealing with interpersonal conflicts, all while trying to maintain their vampire identities. It captures the humor and absurdity of their existence, creating a unique and entertaining story.

3. Who Are the Main Characters in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

The film features an ensemble cast of memorable characters:

Viago (Taika Waititi): A polite and considerate 379-year-old vampire who tries to keep the household running smoothly.
Vladislav (Jermaine Clement): An 862-year-old vampire with a history of dark deeds and a rivalry with “The Beast.”
Deacon (Jonathan Brugh): A rebellious 183-year-old vampire who fancies himself the “bad boy” of the group.
Petyr (Ben Fransham): An ancient and menacing 8,000-year-old vampire who rarely leaves his coffin.

These characters provide the core comedic and dramatic elements of the film.

4. What Themes Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Explore?

The film explores themes of:

Friendship: Despite their differences and occasional conflicts, the vampires share a bond of friendship.
Loneliness: The vampires grapple with the isolation of living for centuries.
Modernity vs. Tradition: The vampires struggle to adapt to the modern world while clinging to their ancient traditions.

These themes are woven into the comedic narrative, adding depth to the film’s humor.

5. How Was “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Received by Critics and Audiences?

“What We Do in the Shadows 2014” was widely praised by critics and audiences for its:

Originality: Fresh take on the vampire genre.
Humor: Witty and absurd situations.
Performances: Strong ensemble cast.

The film has gained a cult following and is considered a modern comedy classic.

6. Where Was “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Filmed?

The movie was filmed in Wellington, New Zealand, which provides a unique and quirky backdrop to the story.

7. What Inspired Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement to Create “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement were inspired by their shared love of horror and comedy, wanting to create a vampire film that was both funny and relatable. According to an interview with Collider, the directors wanted to explore the everyday lives of vampires, showing the more mundane aspects of their existence.

8. What Is the Significance of the Mockumentary Style in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

The mockumentary style adds a layer of realism and humor to the film, making the absurd situations more believable and engaging. It also allows the characters to break the fourth wall and interact directly with the audience, enhancing the comedic effect.

9. Are There Any Spin-offs or Sequels to “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Yes, the success of the film led to a spin-off television series of the same name, “What We Do in the Shadows,” which follows a different group of vampire roommates in Staten Island, New York. The series has been critically acclaimed and has further expanded the world created in the original film.

10. Why Is “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Still Popular Today?

“What We Do in the Shadows 2014” remains popular due to its:

Timeless humor: The jokes and situations are still funny and relevant.
Relatable characters: Despite being vampires, the characters are relatable and likable.
Unique premise: The mockumentary style and fresh take on the vampire genre continue to appeal to audiences.

Its enduring appeal has solidified its place as a comedy classic.

11. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Subvert Vampire Tropes?

The film subverts vampire tropes by portraying vampires as:

Mundane: Dealing with everyday problems like chores and relationships.
Incompetent: Often failing at their attempts to be menacing or seductive.
Self-aware: Acknowledging and making fun of vampire stereotypes.

This subversion is a key element of the film’s humor and originality.

12. What Are Some of the Funniest Moments in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Some of the funniest moments include:

The vampires arguing over who has to do the dishes.
Vladislav’s attempts to hypnotize people.
Deacon’s obsession with appearing cool.
The introduction of Stu, the human friend who introduces the vampires to modern technology.

These scenes showcase the film’s unique brand of humor.

13. How Does the Film Use Special Effects?

The film uses special effects sparingly, focusing on practical effects and subtle CGI to enhance the comedic effect. According to an interview with The New Zealand Herald, the filmmakers wanted the effects to be believable but not overly flashy, maintaining the mockumentary feel.

14. What Role Does Music Play in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

The music in the film complements the comedic tone, often using classical or dramatic scores in unexpected and humorous ways.

15. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Compare to Other Vampire Films?

“What We Do in the Shadows 2014” differs from other vampire films by:

Focusing on comedy rather than horror.
Presenting vampires as relatable and flawed characters.
Using a mockumentary style to create a unique and engaging experience.

These elements distinguish it from more traditional vampire films.

16. What Can Viewers Expect From “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Viewers can expect a:

Hilarious and original comedy.
Fresh take on the vampire genre.
Memorable characters and situations.

The movie promises an entertaining and unique cinematic experience.

17. How Did “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Impact the Careers of Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement?

The film’s success helped launch Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement into the mainstream, leading to opportunities to direct and star in other successful projects. Waititi went on to direct Thor: Ragnarok and Jojo Rabbit, while Clement co-created the “What We Do in the Shadows” television series.

18. What Are Some of the Cultural References in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

The film includes cultural references to:

Vampire mythology: Traditional vampire lore and stereotypes.
Pop culture: Mentions of Twilight and other vampire-related media.
New Zealand culture: Local customs and humor.

These references add depth and humor to the film’s narrative.

19. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Handle the Horror Aspects of Vampires?

The film handles the horror aspects of vampires in a comedic way, often playing up the absurdity of their violent tendencies and supernatural abilities.

20. What Lessons Can Be Learned From “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Viewers can learn lessons about:

Friendship: The importance of supporting and accepting friends, despite their flaws.
Adaptability: The need to adapt to changing times and circumstances.
Self-acceptance: Embracing one’s true self, even if it’s a bit weird or unconventional.

These lessons are subtly woven into the comedic narrative, adding depth to the film’s message.

21. How Does the Setting of Wellington, New Zealand, Contribute to the Film’s Atmosphere?

The setting of Wellington, New Zealand, adds to the film’s quirky and offbeat atmosphere, providing a unique backdrop for the vampire’s antics. The city’s distinctive architecture and landscapes contribute to the film’s visual appeal and overall charm.

22. What Is the Significance of the Film’s Title, “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

The title refers to the secretive and often mundane lives of the vampires, who operate in the shadows of society. It also hints at the film’s mockumentary style, as it purports to reveal what these creatures do when they are not being observed by humans.

23. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Explore the Theme of Identity?

The film explores the theme of identity by portraying the vampires as individuals who struggle to reconcile their ancient identities with their modern lives. Each vampire grapples with their past and tries to find a place for themselves in the contemporary world.

24. What Makes the Characters in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Relatable?

Despite being vampires, the characters are relatable because they:

Have everyday problems: Dealing with chores, relationships, and personal insecurities.
Exhibit human emotions: Feeling love, jealousy, and frustration.
Are flawed: Making mistakes and struggling to improve themselves.

These qualities make them more than just stereotypical vampires.

25. How Does the Film Use Humor to Explore Dark Themes?

The film uses humor to explore dark themes such as:

Death: Making light of the vampires’ violent tendencies and immortality.
Loneliness: Highlighting the isolation of living for centuries.
Identity: Examining the challenges of reconciling one’s past with the present.

The humor makes these themes more accessible and engaging.

26. What Is the Role of Jackie, Deacon’s Familiar, in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Jackie, Deacon’s familiar, plays a crucial role in the film as:

A source of comedic relief: Her interactions with the vampires are often hilarious.
A connection to the human world: She helps the vampires navigate modern society.
A character with her own ambitions: She dreams of becoming a vampire herself.

Her character adds depth and complexity to the film’s narrative.

27. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Handle the Concept of Immortality?

The film handles the concept of immortality by:

Highlighting its drawbacks: Showing the loneliness and boredom that can come with living for centuries.
Exploring its impact on identity: Examining how immortality can shape one’s sense of self.
Using it as a source of humor: Making light of the vampires’ inability to die.

This approach provides a fresh perspective on the traditional vampire myth.

28. What Are Some of the Memorable Quotes From “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Some memorable quotes include:

“We’re vampires. We don’t put down towels.”
“I’m Vladislav the Poker. People call me that because I like to poke people.”
“Fatal sunlight accident!”

These quotes capture the film’s unique brand of humor and wit.

29. How Does the Film Use Visual Comedy?

The film uses visual comedy through:

Physical gags: Slapstick humor and exaggerated movements.
Costumes and makeup: Exaggerated vampire attire and appearances.
Set design: Quirky and cluttered vampire dwellings.

These elements enhance the film’s comedic effect and create a visually engaging experience.

30. What Is the Significance of Stu’s Character in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Stu’s character is significant because he:

Represents the human perspective: Providing a contrast to the vampires’ supernatural world.
Introduces the vampires to modern technology: Helping them adapt to contemporary society.
Forms genuine friendships with the vampires: Demonstrating that humans and vampires can coexist.

His character adds depth and heart to the film’s narrative.

31. How Does the Film Use Improvisation?

The film relies heavily on improvisation, allowing the actors to bring their own comedic sensibilities to their roles. According to an interview with The Guardian, Waititi and Clement encouraged the actors to improvise and explore their characters, resulting in many of the film’s funniest moments.

32. What Is the Significance of the Film’s Ending?

The film’s ending is significant because it:

Reinforces the theme of friendship: Showing the vampires supporting each other despite their differences.
Highlights the vampires’ continued adaptation to modern life: Demonstrating their ability to evolve and change.
Leaves the door open for future stories: Suggesting that the vampires’ adventures are far from over.

The ending provides a satisfying conclusion to the film while also hinting at the potential for sequels or spin-offs.

33. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Compare to Other Mockumentary Films?

“What We Do in the Shadows 2014” stands out from other mockumentary films due to its:

Unique subject matter: Focusing on the lives of vampires.
Strong character development: Creating memorable and relatable characters.
Witty and original humor: Combining absurd situations with clever dialogue.

These elements make it a standout in the mockumentary genre.

34. What Are Some of the Challenges the Vampires Face in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

The vampires face challenges such as:

Paying rent: Struggling to manage their finances in the modern world.
Doing chores: Arguing over who has to clean the house.
Finding victims: Navigating the complexities of hunting in a modern city.
Adapting to technology: Learning how to use computers and smartphones.

These challenges highlight the vampires’ struggles to adapt to modern life.

35. How Does the Film Use Sound Design?

The film uses sound design to:

Create a creepy atmosphere: Employing eerie sound effects and music.
Enhance the comedic effect: Using exaggerated sounds for humorous moments.
Immerse the audience in the vampire’s world: Creating a believable soundscape for their nocturnal lives.

These elements contribute to the film’s overall impact and effectiveness.

36. What Is the Role of Petyr, the Ancient Vampire, in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Petyr, the ancient vampire, plays a crucial role as:

A symbol of the vampires’ ancient past: Representing their connection to the origins of vampire mythology.
A source of fear and intimidation: His menacing presence adds a sense of danger to the film.
A character with his own quirks and eccentricities: His unusual behavior provides comedic relief.

His character adds depth and complexity to the film’s narrative.

37. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Explore the Theme of Tradition vs. Modernity?

The film explores the theme of tradition vs. modernity by:

Contrasting the vampires’ ancient customs with modern technology and social norms.
Showing the vampires struggling to adapt to the changing world while clinging to their traditions.
Highlighting the humor and absurdity that arise from this conflict.

This theme is central to the film’s comedic narrative and adds depth to its message.

38. What Are Some of the Running Gags in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Some running gags include:

The vampires’ inability to see their reflections.
Vladislav’s rivalry with “The Beast.”
Deacon’s obsession with appearing cool.
The vampires’ struggles with technology.

These running gags add to the film’s comedic effect and create a sense of familiarity and continuity.

39. How Does the Film Use Lighting and Cinematography?

The film uses lighting and cinematography to:

Create a dark and atmospheric mood: Employing low-key lighting and shadow play.
Enhance the mockumentary style: Using handheld cameras and natural lighting.
Highlight the vampires’ nocturnal lifestyle: Showing them primarily in dimly lit interiors and at night.

These elements contribute to the film’s visual style and create a believable vampire world.

40. What Is the Overall Message of “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

The overall message of “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” is that:

Friendship and acceptance are important, even among those who are different.
It’s possible to adapt to changing times while still staying true to oneself.
Life is better when you can find humor in the absurdities of existence.

These messages are woven into the comedic narrative and add depth to the film’s meaning.

41. How Did the Writers Develop the Characters’ Unique Personalities?

Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement developed the characters’ unique personalities through a combination of:

Improvisation: Allowing the actors to explore their characters and add their own quirks and traits.
Backstories: Creating detailed histories and motivations for each character.
Collaboration: Working closely with the actors to refine their characters and ensure they were believable and engaging.

42. What Specific Challenges Did the Filmmakers Face While Shooting a Mockumentary About Vampires?

Specific challenges included:

Maintaining the mockumentary style while incorporating supernatural elements.
Creating believable vampire effects without sacrificing the comedic tone.
Balancing improvisation with a structured narrative.
Keeping the story engaging and entertaining while focusing on the mundane aspects of the vampires’ lives.

43. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Handle Violence and Gore?

The film handles violence and gore in a comedic way, often:

Exaggerating the effects for humorous purposes.
Using slapstick and physical comedy to downplay the seriousness of the violence.
Focusing on the aftermath of violent acts rather than the acts themselves.

This approach allows the film to explore the darker aspects of vampire mythology without becoming too gruesome or disturbing.

44. What Role Does Technology Play in the Lives of the Vampires in “What We Do in the Shadows 2014”?

Technology plays a significant role by:

Creating opportunities for humor: The vampires’ struggles to use computers, smartphones, and other modern devices are often hilarious.
Helping the vampires adapt to modern society: Stu’s tech skills enable them to order food, find victims, and entertain themselves.
Highlighting the contrast between the vampires’ ancient past and the modern world.

45. How Does the Film Use Dialogue?

The film uses dialogue that is:

Witty and clever: Filled with puns, jokes, and pop culture references.
Naturalistic and conversational: Mimicking the way people talk in real life.
Character-driven: Revealing the personalities and motivations of the vampires.
Improvisational: Often improvised by the actors to create spontaneous humor.

46. What Are Some of the Recurring Themes Related to New Zealand Culture in the Film?

Recurring themes related to New Zealand culture include:

The laid-back and easygoing attitude of the characters.
The use of local slang and colloquialisms.
The emphasis on community and friendship.
The appreciation for the natural beauty of the New Zealand landscape.

47. How Does “What We Do in the Shadows 2014” Compare to Traditional Vampire Lore?

“What We Do in the Shadows 2014” compares by:

Subverting traditional vampire stereotypes: Presenting vampires as flawed, relatable, and often incompetent.
Incorporating elements of traditional vampire lore: Including references to fangs, coffins, sunlight sensitivity, and bloodlust.
Adding a comedic twist to familiar vampire tropes: Making light of the darker aspects of vampire mythology.
Modernizing the vampire myth: Showing how vampires might adapt to life in the 21st century.

48. What Motivations Drove Each of the Main Characters?

Viago: Driven by a desire to maintain order and harmony in the house, as well as a longing for his lost love, Katherine.
Vladislav: Motivated by a need to reclaim his former glory and avenge his defeat at the hands of “The Beast.”
Deacon: Driven by a desire to be seen as cool and rebellious, as well as a need for attention and validation.
Petyr: Driven by basic instincts and a desire to feed, as well as a general indifference to the world around him.

49. What Were Some of the Unexpected Challenges Encountered During Filming?

Unexpected challenges include:

Weather: Unpredictable weather conditions in Wellington made outdoor filming difficult.
Improvisation: Managing the improvisational nature of the film while staying on schedule and budget.
Special effects: Creating believable vampire effects without sacrificing the comedic tone.
Logistics: Coordinating the cast and crew in a mockumentary style.

50. Is There a Message Related to Modern Society Embedded in the Film’s Narrative?

Yes, one message relates to how:

Embracing Diversity: The film subtly promotes the acceptance of others, regardless of their differences, as seen in the vampires’ unusual household.
Adaptability: The need to adapt to changing times is a central theme, reflecting the challenges of modern society.
The Absurdity of Modern Life: By highlighting the vampires’ struggles with technology and social norms, the film gently satirizes the absurdities of contemporary living.

FAQ About “What We Do In The Shadows 2014”

Question	Answer
Is What We Do in the Shadows scary or funny?	Primarily funny. It’s a comedy mockumentary that affectionately pokes fun at vampire tropes rather than aiming for genuine scares.
Who directed What We Do in the Shadows the movie?	Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement co-directed, wrote, and starred in the film.
Is the What We Do in the Shadows series related to the movie?	Yes, the series is a spin-off of the 2014 film. Although it features a new cast and location (Staten Island, New York), it exists within the same comedic universe and shares a similar mockumentary style.
Is there going to be a What We Do in the Shadows movie sequel?	As of now, there are no official plans for a direct sequel to the movie. Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement have expressed interest in revisiting the characters, but their busy schedules make it challenging. For now, the TV series continues the story in its own way.
Where can I watch What We Do in the Shadows?	What We Do in the Shadows is available on various streaming platforms such as Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and others, depending on your region. It’s also often available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like iTunes and Google Play.
Is What We Do in the Shadows appropriate for kids?	No, What We Do in the Shadows is not appropriate for kids. It contains adult humor, strong language, and some violent content, so it’s best suited for mature audiences.
Where does What We Do in the Shadows take place?	The original movie is set in Wellington, New Zealand. The TV series is set in Staten Island, New York.
Is What We Do in the Shadows based on a book?	No, What We Do in the Shadows is not based on a book. It’s an original story created by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement.
Who is the oldest vampire in What We Do in the Shadows?	Petyr, played by Ben Fransham, is the oldest vampire, clocking in at approximately 8,000 years old.
What is a “familiar” in What We Do in the Shadows?	In the context of the film, a familiar is a human servant who attends to the needs of a vampire in the hopes of one day being turned into a vampire themselves. Jackie is Deacon’s familiar.

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