Introduction
What We Do in the Shadows is a 2014 darkly comic mockumentary film directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi. The story follows four vampires—Viago, Deacon, Vladislav, and Petyr—living together in a flat in Wellington, New Zealand, as they adjust to modern life while still adhering to centuries-old traditions. Viewers are taken on an absurd yet amusing journey as these characters grapple with mundane tasks such as doing the dishes, attending house parties, and going to work.
The film has been widely praised for its unique blend of comedy, horror, and social commentary. As more people discover the film, they often ask the same question: how can I watch What We Do in the Shadows online? In this article, we will explore the various ways to watch What We Do in the Shadows online, as well as examine the elements that make the film so entertaining and culturally relevant.
Analyzing the Darkly Comic Cinematography of What We Do in the Shadows
What We Do in the Shadows is a visual feast, combining elements of comedy, horror, and documentary filmmaking to create a unique and captivating viewing experience. The cinematography is a key element of the film, using camera movement, lighting, and color to enhance the comedic aspects of the film.
Visual Style of Comedy
The aesthetic of What We Do in the Shadows is heavily influenced by comedy films, with many scenes shot in a single take and featuring long, unbroken shots. This style of shooting allows viewers to linger on moments of absurdity and observe the reactions of the characters. Additionally, the filmmakers use a variety of camera angles and lenses to emphasize certain elements of each scene, making them funnier and more engaging.
Use of Lighting and Color to Enhance Humor
Lighting plays an important role in creating the mood of What We Do in the Shadows. The filmmakers use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to create a unique atmosphere that reflects the tone of the film. Additionally, the use of color helps to further enhance the comedic elements, particularly during the night scenes when the vampires are out and about.
Camera Movement and Angles to Create a Unique Perspective
The camera movements used in What We Do in the Shadows are often subtle but effective. The filmmakers make use of tracking shots, low angle shots, and other camera techniques to give the film a unique look and feel. Additionally, the use of handheld cameras adds a sense of immediacy to certain scenes, making them more immersive and engaging.
Exploring the Gothic Horror Aesthetic of What We Do in the Shadows
What We Do in the Shadows draws heavily from the gothic horror genre, incorporating elements such as suspense, atmosphere, and supernatural creatures into its narrative. The filmmakers use a variety of techniques to create a sense of dread and tension, making the film both funny and frightening.
Elements of Gothic Horror Genre
The most obvious element of gothic horror present in What We Do in the Shadows is the presence of vampires. These creatures are portrayed as traditional monsters, with their powers and weaknesses reflecting those found in folklore and literature. Additionally, the film makes use of classic horror tropes such as dark and foreboding settings, mysterious characters, and eerie music.
Use of Atmosphere and Setting to Create Fear
The filmmakers make use of atmosphere and setting to create a sense of fear and suspense in What We Do in the Shadows. The film takes place primarily at night, with the majority of scenes taking place in dark and shadowy locations such as graveyards and abandoned buildings. Additionally, the use of sound design and music helps to create an atmosphere of dread and unease.
Characterization of Vampire Clans
The characterization of the vampire clans in What We Do in the Shadows is also heavily influenced by the gothic horror genre. The vampires are portrayed as ancient, powerful creatures who are bound by strict rules and traditions. They are often seen as menacing yet sympathetic figures, struggling to adapt to a world that has changed drastically since their time.

Examining the Witty Dialogue and Irony of What We Do in the Shadows
What We Do in the Shadows is renowned for its clever dialogue and wry sense of humor. The filmmakers make use of irony, wit, and sarcasm to create humorous and memorable moments. Additionally, the dialogue is often used to highlight the differences between the vampires’ traditional ways and modern life, creating an interesting contrast.
Dialogue as a Tool for Comedy
The dialogue in What We Do in the Shadows is used to great effect, creating humorous situations and unexpected twists. The characters often exchange witty banter, making light of their situation and poking fun at each other. Additionally, the dialogue is often laced with puns and pop culture references, adding an extra layer of humor.
Use of Irony to Heighten Humor
The filmmakers also make use of irony to create comedic moments in What We Do in the Shadows. Many scenes feature characters saying one thing while meaning something else, or behaving in a manner that is the opposite of what is expected. This ironic approach to comedy allows the audience to laugh at the absurdity of the situation while still being able to relate to the characters.
Balance between Funny and Serious Moments
What We Do in the Shadows also manages to find a balance between funny and serious moments. Despite the overall comedic tone of the film, there are several scenes that are surprisingly poignant and affecting. These moments help to humanize the characters, allowing viewers to empathize with their struggles and appreciate the darker aspects of the film.
Investigating the Complex Relationships Between Vampire Clans in What We Do in the Shadows
In addition to its comedy and horror elements, What We Do in the Shadows also features a number of complex relationships between different vampire clans. These relationships are used to explore themes such as tradition vs. modernity, power dynamics, and inter-clan conflict.
Conflict between Traditional and Modern Vampires
The main conflict in What We Do in the Shadows centers around the clash between traditional and modern vampires. On one side are the old-fashioned vampires, who cling to their ancient customs and beliefs. On the other side are the modern vampires, who embrace technology and seek to fit in with modern society. This conflict drives much of the plot and provides an interesting backdrop for the characters’ interactions.
Power Dynamics between Different Clans
The power dynamics between different vampire clans also play an important role in What We Do in the Shadows. Certain clans are portrayed as more powerful than others, with each clan having its own strengths and weaknesses. This creates a dynamic environment where alliances are constantly shifting and the balance of power is always in flux.
Impact of Inter-Clan Relationships on Plot
The inter-clan relationships featured in What We Do in the Shadows also have a significant impact on the plot. The conflicts between different clans often lead to unexpected consequences, such as the formation of new alliances or the discovery of long-hidden secrets. This gives the film an unpredictable edge, keeping viewers engaged and entertained.

Reviewing the Cultural Relevance of What We Do in the Shadows
What We Do in the Shadows is not just a funny and entertaining film; it is also highly relevant to modern culture. Through its darkly comedic lens, the film offers a satirical take on popular culture, social norms, and current issues.
Reflection of Modern Society
What We Do in the Shadows serves as a reflection of modern society, highlighting the quirks and contradictions of contemporary life. The film examines topics such as consumerism, social media, and the changing nature of relationships, providing an insightful yet humorous look at the world we live in.
Social Commentary on Popular Culture
The filmmakers also use What We Do in the Shadows to comment on popular culture. The film satirizes trends such as vampire movies, reality television, and celebrity worship, offering an amusing yet thought-provoking critique of our obsession with fame and superficiality.
Satirical Representation of Current Issues
Finally, What We Do in the Shadows also offers a satirical representation of current issues. The film touches on topics such as immigration, racism, and homophobia, presenting these issues through a humorous yet meaningful lens. This allows viewers to gain a better understanding of these topics without sacrificing the comedy of the film.

Exploring the Impact of Watching What We Do in the Shadows Online
As more people discover What We Do in the Shadows, many are looking for ways to watch the film online. Streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video offer viewers an easy and convenient way to access the film. However, there are both advantages and disadvantages to watching What We Do in the Shadows online.
Advantages of Streaming Services
Streaming services offer viewers a number of advantages when it comes to watching What We Do in the Shadows. Most streaming services provide high-definition versions of the film, making it easier to appreciate the visuals and enjoy the full cinematic experience. Additionally, streaming services often offer bonus features such as interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, giving viewers an even deeper insight into the film.
Disadvantages of Streaming Services
Unfortunately, there are also some drawbacks to watching What We Do in the Shadows online. Some streaming services require a subscription fee, which can be expensive for viewers who only want to watch the film once. Additionally, streaming services often have limited selection, making it difficult to find older films or niche titles.
Online Accessibility to Viewers
Overall, streaming services provide viewers with an accessible and convenient way to watch What We Do in the Shadows. The availability of the film online makes it easier for viewers to discover the film and appreciate its unique blend of comedy, horror, and social commentary.
Conclusion
What We Do in the Shadows is a darkly comic mockumentary that combines elements of comedy, horror, and social commentary to create an entertaining and thought-provoking viewing experience. In this article, we explored the various ways to watch What We Do in the Shadows online, as well as examined the elements that make the film so captivating and culturally relevant. We looked at its cinematography, gothic horror aesthetic, witty dialogue and irony, complex relationships between vampire clans, and its cultural relevance. By streaming What We Do in the Shadows online, viewers can enjoy the film’s unique blend of comedy and horror, as well as gain a better understanding of our modern culture.
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