One of the most exciting narrative features at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival is Neil Jordan’s fantasy thriller film “Byzantium.” The film’s seductive tale follows two women, Clara (Gemma Arterton) and Eleanor (Saoirse Ronan), who are haunted by a terrible secret that has governed their nomadic, violent lives — they are vampires.
Tormented by her identity, Eleanor longs to tell her story to somebody, but the protective Clara forbids her from telling their secret. When their past quickly catches up with them, the two find shelter at the dilapidated Byzantium Hotel in a small seaside town, where Eleanor soon falls for a local boy. This relationship puts Clara and Eleanor’s secret in jeopardy, resulting in bloody, violent consequences.
Jordan is no stranger to the genre. He first explored the alluring world of vampires in 1994 with his Oscar-nominated “Interview with the Vampire.” His unique style is perhaps what sets his films apart from other vampire films.
In “Byzantium,” Jordan builds a stylish fairy tale from scratch with his meticulous use of imagery. A small, seaside town where a strange mist constantly hangs in the sky sets the backdrop and contributes to the film’s stunning scenery, which works wonders in setting the story’s gothic mood. With a foreboding atmosphere already in place, the two leading actresses shine brightly in their blood-red costumes.
Credit should be given to Moira Buffini, who adapted her own play into a very charming script for the screen. She takes a nearly clichéd genre and reinvigorates it in her own thrilling tale. On the surface, the story follows two vampires running away from their past. But this is merely a device Buffini uses to explore concepts of love, sacrifice and, most importantly, time. She clearly put in the effort to develop each role, for the complexities of every character play a significant role in the story’s allure.
The outstanding cast must also be lauded for their performances. Ronan excels as the quiet, conflicted Eleanor with an eerie beauty and grace. She demonstrates a supernatural maturity in the way she carries herself and the way she interacts with people.
Arterton is wonderful as the seductive Clara, who seems to embody the image of the lustful vampire perfectly. With an air of confidence and power, she radiates charisma the moment she steps into a scene. However, beneath this outer shell lies a genuine concern for Eleanor’s well-being, and the duo exhibit spectacular on-screen chemistry.
With master director Jordan and playwright Buffini teaming up with an impeccable cast, “Byzantium” is a stunning sight to behold. The film is a flawless combination of thriller, drama and romance and will make anybody’s heart beat wildly.
Bob Teoh is a staff writer. Email him at [email protected].
