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Exploring Queer Themes in Film: Abigail
Universal Pictures has recently made available their latest horror offering, Abigail, for on-demand viewing in the comfort of your own home. Directed by the talented filmmakers Tyler Gillett and Matt Bettinelli-Olpin of Radio Silence, this kidnapped vampire ballerina tale is a wild and gory experience that is not to be missed.
Reimagining Universal Monsters in Abigail
In a recent interview with io9, the directors delved into their process of reinventing the classic Universal Monsters lore. Gillett and Bettinelli-Olpin discussed how Universal was open to fresh interpretations of these iconic monsters, allowing them the creative freedom to explore new avenues within the established canon. The duo initially pitched a unique take on Creature From the Black Lagoon, which was well-received by the studio.
The script for Abigail, originally titled Abducting Abigail, was already in existence at Universal and centered around a heist movie intertwining with a vampire narrative. The filmmakers praised Universal for their enthusiasm towards original ideas, guiding them towards crafting the most innovative and entertaining version of the film.
The Stellar Ensemble Cast of Abigail
The ensemble cast of Abigail features talented actors including Alisha Weir as the titular character, Abigail – a ballet dancer turned vampire. Joining her are Melissa Barrera, Dan Stevens, Kathryn Newton, Giancarlo Esposito, Angus Cloud, William Catlett, and Kevin Durand. The directors expressed their delight in collaborating with these actors, highlighting the depth and complexity each performer brought to their respective roles.
Gillett and Bettinelli-Olpin emphasized the importance of character development in the film, drawing inspiration from cinematic classics like Alien. They aimed to establish a connection between the audience and the morally ambiguous characters, creating a sense of empathy even towards antiheroes.
Diving Into the Creative Choices of Abigail
One of the standout moments in the film revolves around the revelation of Abigail as a vampire ballerina. Gillett explained that the decision to showcase this iconic image in the marketing was deliberate, as it effectively captured the movie’s tone and absurdity. Despite the early reveal, the directors ensured that the surrounding scenes remained engaging and integral to the storyline.
Additionally, a surprising twist in the film involved Matthew Goode’s character, which initially was conceptualized as Dracula in earlier script drafts. Ultimately, the filmmakers opted to maintain ambiguity around the character’s identity, focusing on delivering a compelling and nuanced portrayal by Goode.
Celebrating Influences and Homages in Abigail
During the filming process, the directors found themselves unintentionally paying homage to classic vampire films like Near Dark through certain scenes. The influence of iconic cinematic moments seeped into their storytelling, adding layers of depth and nostalgia to the film. The inclusion of subtle nods to the vampire genre added an extra dimension to the viewing experience for audiences.
Abigail is now accessible for rental or purchase from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, offering viewers a chance to immerse themselves in this haunting and captivating narrative. For more entertainment news and updates, visit io9 to stay informed about upcoming releases in the Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek universes, as well as the future of Doctor Who.
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