What We Do in the Shadows: A Hilarious Blend of Horror and Comedy

Introduction:

In the ever-expanding world of television, few shows have managed to combine genres as seamlessly as What We Do in the Shadows. Based on the 2014 film directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, this quirky mockumentary series dives deep into the lives of vampire roommates trying to navigate modern life while sticking to their old, terrifying ways. But what truly sets What We Do in the Shadows apart is its remarkable blend of horror and comedy, making it a standout among other supernatural series.

In this article, we will explore everything that makes What We Do in the Shadows so unique—its plot, characters, humor, and influence on the horror-comedy genre.

1. The Origins of What We Do in the Shadows Web Series

1.1 From Film to TV

The origins of What We Do in the Shadows began with the 2014 cult-classic film of the same name, co-written and directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement. The movie featured a hilarious portrayal of vampire roommates living together in a modern-day world, dealing with mundane issues like house cleaning, relationships, and long-term boredom.

The film’s success led to the creation of a television adaptation, which premiered on FX in 2019. While the series retains much of the same tone and humor as the film, it introduces new characters and expands the premise to include a fresh cast of vampires with different personalities and quirks.

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2. The Plot: A Fresh Take on Vampire Lore

2.1 A Mockumentary Style Storytelling

At the heart of What We Do in the Shadows is its mockumentary format, a style that allows the audience to dive deeper into the lives of its characters, all while keeping the humor front and center. This storytelling method lets the characters directly address the camera, making their absurd and often hilarious antics more relatable and engaging.

The plot revolves around four vampires—Nadja, Laszlo, Nandor, and Guillermo—living together in a crumbling mansion in Staten Island, New York. The vampires have lived for centuries, but their struggles with modern-day life often result in amusing scenarios. They must navigate challenges such as the rise of technology, personal conflicts, and attempts to uphold their ancient traditions.

2.2 The Vampire Roommates

Each character brings a unique element to the show, making the dynamics between them both hilarious and occasionally heartbreaking.

• Nadja (Natasia Demetriou): The sarcastic and cunning vampire with a passion for her former lovers. Her quick wit and complex relationships bring much-needed flair to the show.
• Laszlo (Matt Berry): Nadja’s charming but eccentric husband, Laszlo is a vampire with a flamboyant attitude and questionable fashion choices. His penchant for mischief adds humor to every situation.
• Nandor (Kayvan Novak): The self-proclaimed leader of the group, Nandor is a noble but out-of-touch vampire. His old-world sensibilities often lead him to misunderstand modern customs, which provides much of the show’s humor.
• Guillermo (Harvey Guillén): A human servant who serves the vampires, Guillermo’s desire to become a vampire himself creates an emotional core for the series, and his ongoing struggles add depth to the otherwise absurd storyline.

3. Humor and Horror: A Perfect Blend

3.1 Comedic Elements

What We Do in the Shadows excels in its ability to mix everyday, relatable scenarios with supernatural horror elements. The show doesn’t just play off of typical vampire tropes but takes them to a ridiculous extreme, allowing the audience to laugh at the absurdity of these immortal beings trying to fit into modern society.

One of the series’ most effective comedic devices is its use of mundane situations. For example, the vampires might be dealing with a centuries-old feud while also arguing over who forgot to take out the trash. Their inability to adapt to modern life leads to frequent comedic clashes with technology, fashion, and social norms.

3.2 Horror and Supernatural Themes

While the show is primarily comedic, it still embraces its supernatural roots. The characters’ vampiric nature allows for moments of genuine horror—whether it’s the terrifying encounters with other supernatural beings, or the dark secrets the vampires carry from their long lives. The combination of horror and humor allows for an unpredictable and unique viewing experience, where the audience is both terrified and amused in equal measure.

4. The Show’s Influence on the Genre

4.1 Redefining the Vampire Genre

What We Do in the Shadows has had a significant impact on the way vampires are portrayed in media. Rather than focusing solely on traditional vampire tropes—such as brooding immortals and bloodlust—the series offers a more lighthearted and often satirical view of these creatures. This fresh approach has attracted a wide range of audiences and helped revitalize interest in supernatural horror-comedies.

4.2 Fostering a Cult Following

Like the 2014 film, the TV adaptation quickly gained a cult following due to its unique style, memorable characters, and the way it upends classic vampire myths. Its blend of witty dialogue, absurd situations, and horror elements has made it a beloved show for fans of both comedy and supernatural genres.

5. The Cultural Impact of What We Do in the Shadows

5.1 A Global Phenomenon

While the series is rooted in a niche genre, its humor has proven to be universally appealing. Fans around the world have embraced the show, and its influence is reflected in online memes, fan theories, and fan art. The series’ lighthearted yet dark humor has made it a favorite among TV enthusiasts who enjoy both quirky and spooky shows.

5.2 Award Nominations and Critical Acclaim

Since its debut, What We Do in the Shadows has received critical acclaim for its clever writing, stellar performances, and unique premise. The series has garnered numerous nominations and awards, cementing its place as a standout show in the comedy and horror genres.

6. Behind the Scenes: The Creators’ Vision

6.1 Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement’s Vision

The series’ creators, Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, bring their signature comedic style to the show, blending absurd humor with heartfelt moments. Their unique creative vision shines through in every episode, making What We Do in the Shadows a brilliant balance of slapstick humor, clever satire, and emotional depth.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

7.1 Is What We Do in the Shadows a horror show?

While the show contains supernatural elements and moments of horror, it is primarily a comedy that parodies vampire lore and modern life.

7.2 Do I need to watch the 2014 movie before the TV show?

No, while the TV series is based on the film, it’s not necessary to watch the movie beforehand. The show stands alone and introduces new characters and storylines.

7.3 How many seasons of What We Do in the Shadows are there?

As of 2025, the show has aired four seasons, with a fifth season already confirmed.

7.4 What makes What We Do in the Shadows unique?

Its combination of horror and comedy, along with the unique characters and mockumentary style, sets it apart from other supernatural shows.

7.5 Are there any spin-offs of the show?

Yes, the series has inspired various spin-offs, including the animated special What We Do in the Shadows: The Halloween Special.

7.6 Where can I watch What We Do in the Shadows?

The show is available for streaming on FX and Hulu, depending on your region.

Conclusion

What We Do in the Shadows is a one-of-a-kind show that blends comedy with supernatural elements to deliver a hilarious yet spooky experience. Its unique premise, unforgettable characters, and clever humor have made it a standout in the TV world, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Whether you’re a fan of horror, comedy, or both, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for something fresh and entertaining.