You have probably already heard about Only Lovers Left Alive, although it’s far easier to remember it as “the Tom Hiddleston/Tilda Swinton vampire movie.” It has been a long time in coming to the American market, slowly making the rounds of the festival circuit since it premiered at Cannes last year. Now, the film is finally getting a wide U.S. release, promoted by yet another dreamy, ethereal trailer.
Hiddleston and Swinton feature as centuries-old vampire lovers named Adam and Eve, now evolved to a state where they do not need to feast upon humans to acquire sustenance. Instead they seem to spend their time playing music, discussing literature, and enjoying each other’s company. A wrench may be thrown into the works, however, by the appearance of Adam’s sister Ava (Mia Wasikowska), a younger and obviously wilder creature whom Adam does not seem to be overly fond of.
The point is not the plot, though – it’s the tone. This latest U.S. trailer showcases some of the inherent humor in the situation of a pair of vampire lovers handling the modern world, while still maintaining that odd, sophisticated tone that director Jim Jarmusch is so very good at. Stylized scenes, some amusing references to Faust and The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, and blood popsicles highlight the comic aspects.
Of course, Swinton and Hiddleston are perfectly cast. In fact, I don’t think there are any two actors better equipped to play ascetic and cultured vampires. Add to that duo Wasikowska, John Hurt and Anton Yelchin, and I think we can safely assume that this film will be all kinds of strange and wonderful.
Don’t take my word for it, though. You can check out the latest U.S. trailer for Only Lovers Left Alive below. Then, head to US cinemas on April 11 for some non-sparkly but very well-educated vampire fun.
