If you’re a fan of both vampire tales and science fiction, you might want to revisit the often overlooked gem, “Daybreakers.” Released in 2009, this film masterfully blends dystopian action with vampiric horror, resulting in a cinematic experience that deserves more attention than it has received. Featuring a stellar cast that includes Willem Dafoe, Ethan Hawke, and Sam Neill, “Daybreakers” is currently available for free streaming on Tubi and Pluto TV for those curious to dive into its unique world.
The film, directed by Michael and Peter Spierig, who also helmed the 2017 film “Jigsaw,” is set in the then-future year of 2019. It presents a world where a virus, spread by vampire bats, has turned the majority of the human population into vampires. This transformation has led to a critical shortage of human blood, creating a dire situation for the vampire society.
At the heart of the story is Edward Dalton (played by Ethan Hawke), a vampire hematologist who yearns to reclaim his humanity. Alongside his team, Dalton works tirelessly to create a blood substitute. Meanwhile, Charles Bromley (portrayed by Sam Neill), a wealthy CEO, sees an opportunity to profit from Dalton’s invention by marketing it to vampires worldwide. The plot thickens when Dalton encounters Lionel “Elvis” Cormac (Willem Dafoe), a once-vampire who has been cured. Dalton becomes determined to protect Cormac and uncover the secret behind his reversion to humanity. Audrey Bennett (Claudia Karvan), dedicated to safeguarding humans, joins their mission.
“Daybreakers” seems destined to be a cult classic. Despite its intriguing premise, the film only achieved moderate box office success, grossing just over $50 million globally on a $20 million budget. It debuted at fourth place behind heavy hitters like the first “Avatar,” Robert Downey Jr.’s “Sherlock Holmes,” and “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel.”
Critics were generally favorable, with the film achieving a 69% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, audience reactions were more mixed, with a 49% score on the site’s Popcornmeter. Among the positive reviews, Richard Brody of The New Yorker praised the film’s creativity and effects, noting, “The conceit is worked out in whiz-bang diabolical detail … and brought to life with imaginative effects.” Paul Chambers from CNN Radio agreed, calling it “A first-rate vampire flick with solid action and a story that’s never been seen before. Go in with high expectations and you won’t be disappointed.”
Daybreakers has cult potential written all over it
Lionsgate
Although “Daybreakers” might not be a household name today, its star-studded cast has continued to collaborate on other projects. Ethan Hawke and Willem Dafoe later reunited for “The Northman,” and while the two films differ in genre, fans of dark, intense narratives might find “Daybreakers” an equally compelling watch.
Critics were moderately kind to the movie, doling out a 69% approval score on Rotten Tomatoes. Audiences were somewhat less forgiving, handing it 49% on the same site’s Popcornmeter, but those critics that did enjoy it raved. “The conceit is worked out in whiz-bang diabolical detail … and brought to life with imaginative effects,” remarked Richard Brody from The New Yorker. Agreed Paul Chambers from CNN Radio, “A first-rate vampire flick with solid action and a story that’s never been seen before. Go in with high expectations and you won’t be disappointed.”
While the movie might not be well-remembered today, its cast have since reunited on other projects. Ethan Hawke and Willem Dafoe would later co-star in “The Northman,” and while it’s a completely different kind of movie, moviegoers who love that dark-hewn, violent, suspenseful tale might love “Daybreakers” too.
