There are countless vampire films, well at least I’m not going to count them all. Though within the vampire genre, there is the cult classic franchise of “Vampire: the Masquerade” by White Wolf Publishing. This Goth-punk franchise has spanned video games, novels, comics, and its original RPG tabletop game. Rumors have spread of a possible TV show set in the World of Darkness setting. So let’s discuss, if we receive a Masquerade show or film, what it needs to succeed.
The essence of this multi-monstered universe is that of an eerie melancholy with exciting hidden secrets in its darkest alleys. It’s a world that is controlled by shadowy puppet masters that are controlled by something even more ancient, but the world you see as the viewer must be that of the lowest level. The reason for this is due to the fact that this world thrives on ghostly secrecy. It helps the world feel so much wonderous when there are things to uncover.
The setting is almost always that of a city, not necessarily a major one, but there has to be at least one nightclub for the Camarilla to prowl. Whilst being a large city it must also feel slightly empty and decrepit, to give nuance of that grunge feel. Having a strong nightlife is imperative in anything that incorporates vampires, because if it’s a vampire in the suburbs that just becomes boring. Lastly throwing in some nice mist/haze along with some color-toned filters will give the film its needed crimson style.
Something that the world of Darkness excels at, that most other supernatural society TV series or movies do not incorporate. Is a type of living and believable power or government system. It is not a masquerade film if they don’t incorporate the masquerade and the different factions within the story. These vampires are composed of new and ancient characters, that should reflect this in their interactions. Sure you may be a vampire with impressive powers, but what can you do against someone who has lifetimes of knowledge, power, and political sway. The film would need to show the differences in the lives of these creatures from the homeless Nosferatu, to the elegant Toreador.
There are many routes they could choose for whatever story they wish to utilize. The main features that would give this story a strong presence would be following several different characters that occasionally interact. This would give the viewer a wide view of the world. It would need to have a complex political power struggle element, aligned with a sinister supernatural power. This power would shift the world, without the populace aware of its manipulation.
The final picture would be enhanced with superior filmography that heightens the scene. Creating gorgeous visual lighting and effects paired with stylized camera angles would give the noir feel that follows the story.
Many fans of the masquerade will most likely view this new film (series), but I have no doubt that the producers will most likely try and gather a new audience with its arrival as well. As fans of the series, we must hope that they hold true to the essence and not lose that special touch that made us all fall in love with this universe.
Slade Von Parade 
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