Movie Review: Once Bitten

"Once Bitten" is a 1985 comedy film directed by Howard Storm. The story revolves around a high school student named Mark Kendall, played by Jim Carrey in his first leading role. Mark is an average teenager who becomes the target of a seductive vampire named the Countess and her assistant, Sebastian. The Countess; played by Lauren Hutton, needs the blood of a virgin to stay youthful, and Mark fits the bill. As Mark's girlfriend and friends notice his strange behavior and disappearing hickies, they become suspicious. The film follows Mark's hilarious attempts to avoid becoming a vampire's victim while trying to maintain his relationship with his girlfriend. "Once Bitten" is a campy, lighthearted comedy that explores themes of adolescence, identity, and the challenges of young love, with a touch of the supernatural.

Fun Fact:

"Once Bitten" marked Jim Carrey's first leading role in a feature film. It was a significant step in his career, as it showcased his comedic talents and helped establish him as a rising star in the world of comedy. Carrey's performance in the movie laid the foundation for his later successes in films like "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective," "The Mask," and "Dumb and Dumber." This film is often remembered as one of the early highlights in his career, as it allowed him to showcase his signature brand of physical and slapstick humor.

Jim Carrey's performance as Mark Kendall is a testament to his burgeoning talent as a physical comedian. His exaggerated facial expressions, slapstick humor, and quirky delivery make him a standout in this film. Carrey's ability to blend humor with moments of vulnerability adds depth to his character, making the audience genuinely root for Mark.

The film's supporting cast, including Karen Kopins as Mark's girlfriend; Robin, and Cleavon Little as the vampire’s butler, add to the comedic dynamics. Their interactions with Carrey's character provide some genuinely funny moments in the film. But I got a handed to Cleavon Little as Sebastian with the Countess is actually fun to watch.

Another fantastic scene is in the school dance where Mark and Robin are in; which is another highlight of the film showcasing how good Jim Carey and Karen Kopin’s chemistry as a duo and also as dancers.

Howard Storm's direction keeps the film moving at a brisk pace, balancing humor with moments of tension and romance. The 1980s setting adds a nostalgic charm to the film, and the costume and set design are reflective of the era, enhancing the overall experience.

However, "Once Bitten" isn't without its flaws. Some of the humor may feel dated or reliant on typical '80s stereotypes, which could be a turnoff for modern audiences. The horror elements are relatively mild, as the film leans more towards comedy, which might disappoint those looking for a traditional vampire thriller.

In conclusion, "Once Bitten" is a fun and campy film that showcases Jim Carrey's early comedic brilliance. It's an enjoyable, light-hearted take on the vampire genre, offeri ng a blend of laughs and a touch of the supernatural. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it remains a noteworthy entry in Jim Carrey's career and a nostalgic piece of '80s cinema worth revisiting for those in search of a good laugh.

Rating: High Matinee

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