To say that the vampire genre has seen its fair share of the good, the bad and the ugly would be an understatement. The genre has seen and experienced so many things already. It can sometimes be a challenge to have a unique voice within the realm of Transylvania. We've seen legends like Dracula hit every kind of medium known to man, always longing to be different than its predecessors. We've seen the war of the Kate Beckinsale led Underworld franchise. Of course, we've seen vampires sparkle in the day light thanks for The Twilight Saga.
Bliss dares to breathe new life into the vampire genre, however. The movie centers around a struggling painter who turns to drugs in order to escape her painter's block. During one bad trip, however, she is transformed into a vampire and a new addiction is born. Lead actress, Dora Madison Burge, absolutely crushes this performance. Creating a frantic energy of purpose, questions and addictions. Burge ushers in an intense and smooth delivery for the neon noir vampire flick.
Perhaps the strongest factor of Bliss is its visuals. From its opening credits, its throwback and warm visuals perfect a nostalgic trip back to the drive-in days. Its visuals allow the film to obtain a unique visual identity. When partnered with the film's punk rock roots, the film becomes a welcome throwback to the days of CBGB'S. Though it's a beautiful film to gaze upon it often feels empty upon delivery. The film's premise shows promise but never quite delivers. By the time, audiences reach the vampire element, the film becomes redundant. Recycling the same plot on repeat for the remaining two thirds.
Overall, Bliss, is a visual and audible throwback to the days of underground punk rock days. Creating a visual aesthetic straight from the 70s & a soundtrack of the same era - Bliss is instantly a punk rock vampire flick. Add in the performance from Dora Madison Burge & you're taking steps to something beautifully unique. Though, sadly that identity never quite comes. The film often feels void of purpose. By the time we embrace the Transylvanian roots, the film becomes redundant and recycled - ultimately creating a boring environment. Bliss is the beautiful vampire film you always wanted in theory but never grows past its beauty. Leaving a shallow final product.
RORSCHACH RATING
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Credits: Bliss is property of Dark Sky Films. We do not own nor claim any rights. This is an official selection of Lost Weekend XII.