Fright Night (1985) ****

After writing films like Class Of 1984 (1982), Psycho II (1983), and Cloak & Dagger (1984) (podcast where I discussed that film here), Tom Holland made his directorial debut with the immensely entertaining Fright Night (1985). And while FN is a superb horror comedy (a tricky genre to get right and this film does), it also has a few serious and scary moments that have genuine emotion and compassion. 

FN doesn’t attempt to reinvent the vampire picture, rather add just enough of a modern edge to make it interesting. As well, it's a highly symbolic movie that explores themes of suburban paranoia, the transformative qualities of adolescence, trauma, seduction, and queerness. 

The cast is wonderful, the characters are great, the practical effects are a joy, the set pieces are fantastic, and Brad Fiedel's score is suitably moody and atmospheric (with just the right amount of '80s cheese). A really fun film that gets better on repeat viewings.

Recommended for fans of The 'Burbs (1989) (review), Near Dark (1987) (podcast where I discussed that film here), and American Werewolf In London (1981) (review).