Vampire in Brooklyn (1995)

Movie Memory Machine

"Eddie Murphy is a vampire in Brooklyn, but the scariest thing here isn’t the fangs—it’s the script."

Episode Description

In this episode of Movie Memory Machine, Landen and Truman explore Vampire in Brooklyn (1995), Wes Craven’s attempt at blending gothic horror with Eddie Murphy’s comedic chops. From Murphy’s multi-character flexing to Angela Bassett’s underrated performance, they discuss the film’s awkward tonal shifts, questionable wig choices, and the baffling legacy of one of horror’s strangest hybrids. Is this a misunderstood masterpiece or just a missed opportunity? You decide.

Major Cast and Crew

• Director: Wes Craven
• Writers: Charlie Murphy, Eddie Murphy, Michael Lucker, Chris Parker
• Main Cast:
  • Eddie Murphy as Maximillian / Preacher Pauly / Guido
  • Angela Bassett as Detective Rita Veder
  • Allen Payne as Detective Justice
  • Kadeem Hardison as Julius Jones
  • Zakes Mokae as Dr. Zeko

Film Synopsis

Maximillian (Eddie Murphy), the last vampire on Earth, arrives in Brooklyn to find a mate and secure his bloodline. He targets Detective Rita Veder (Angela Bassett), who is unaware of her half-vampire heritage, while enlisting a bumbling ghoul, Julius (Kadeem Hardison), as his sidekick. As the body count rises and the wigs get wilder, Maximillian’s seduction plans clash with Rita’s fight to hold on to her humanity.

Episode Highlights

• Eddie Murphy’s triple-threat performance: genius or gimmick?
• Angela Bassett’s scene-stealing moments and her journey from detective to vampire queen.
• Why Julius Jones might be the real hero (or at least the funniest ghoul).
• The film’s identity crisis: Is it horror, comedy, or neither?
• Wes Craven’s directional struggles: Gothic meets Brooklyn, but who wins?

What’s your favorite horror-comedy, and does Vampire in Brooklyn deserve another bite? Share your picks in the comments or on social media—we’d love to hear your thoughts!

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