The season 2 premiere of What We Do in the Shadows, entitled “Resurrection”, masterfully uses the arrival of a zombie familiar to highlight the inherent absurdity of the vampires’ unexamined privilege and the widening chasm between their immortal world and the mundane lives of those around them. While seemingly a one-off monster-of-the-week scenario, the episode actually sets the stage for larger themes of consequence and responsibility that run throughout the season, using the increasingly chaotic zombie familiar to underscore the vampires’ inability to face the repercussions of their actions.
The Core Conflict: Unintended Consequences and Immortal Indifference
The episode’s central comedic and narrative engine is, undeniably, the resurrection of Baron Afanas by Nadja and Nandor. Motivated by nostalgia and perhaps a misguided attempt at atonement for their past failings towards the Baron, their act quickly spirals into a grotesque display of unintended consequences. The Baron’s resurrection, while initially appearing successful, results in a decrepit, childlike zombie with limited cognitive function and an insatiable hunger for…virgin blood (and, failing that, whatever they can get their hands on).
This situation perfectly encapsulates the vampires’ core flaw: they act impulsively, often fueled by ego or sentimentality, without considering the practical implications. Their centuries of existence have insulated them from the realities faced by mortals. The episode masterfully uses Baron Afanas’s zombified state to satirize this detachment, forcing the vampires to confront the messy, embarrassing, and ultimately dangerous results of their irresponsible behavior.
The humor derives not just from the slapstick of dealing with a zombie, but from the vampires’ inability to acknowledge their own culpability. They blame each other, they blame Guillermo, they even try to blame the Baron himself, rather than accept that they brought this problem upon themselves. This characteristic avoidance of responsibility is a recurring theme throughout the series, and “Resurrection” sets the tone for how the characters will grapple (or, more accurately, fail to grapple) with the consequences of their actions in later episodes.
Nadja’s Rejuvenated Sexuality and the Power Dynamics at Play
Beyond the zombie hijinks, “Resurrection” subtly explores Nadja’s relationship with her husband, Laszlo, and her own renewed interest in sexual exploration. The episode opens with Nadja reflecting on her past lovers and her desire for more “excitement.” This isn’t presented as a criticism of Laszlo, but rather as an expression of Nadja’s own complex and multifaceted personality.
While the episode doesn’t explicitly delve into the darker aspects of the vampire’s power dynamics, it hints at the potential for exploitation and manipulation inherent in their lifestyle. Nadja’s past relationships, mentioned fleetingly, likely involved mortals who were at a significant disadvantage. This underlying tension adds a layer of depth to the comedic surface, prompting viewers to consider the ethical implications of eternal life and unchecked power. The Baron’s zombified state amplifies this concern, turning a powerful figure into a helpless dependent and raising questions about the responsibility that comes with controlling another being’s existence.
Guillermo’s Undying Loyalty (and Brewing Frustration)
Guillermo, as always, remains the unsung hero (and long-suffering familiar) of the household. He is the only character who demonstrates any genuine concern for the well-being of others, constantly cleaning up the vampires’ messes and protecting them from their own stupidity. His frustration, palpable throughout the episode, stems from the constant lack of recognition and appreciation he receives.
The episode reinforces the recurring theme of Guillermo’s suppressed desire to become a vampire. He continues to serve the vampires faithfully, hoping that one day Nandor will finally grant him the immortality he craves. However, each instance of selfless service is met with indifference or outright exploitation, further fueling his resentment and hinting at a potential turning point in his character arc. The zombie familiar situation only exacerbates this, forcing Guillermo to deal with the gruesome reality of immortality gone wrong while his own desires remain unfulfilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about “Resurrection,” the season 2 premiere of What We Do in the Shadows:
H3 What was the main reason Nadja and Nandor decided to resurrect Baron Afanas?
They were driven by nostalgia and guilt. They felt responsible for his initial demise in Season 1 and hoped to rectify their past failings.
H3 Why did the resurrection go so horribly wrong?
The spell was incomplete and poorly executed. They lacked the necessary expertise and ingredients, resulting in a reanimated corpse rather than a fully restored vampire.
H3 How does Baron Afanas’s new state affect the vampires’ daily lives?
It introduces chaos and inconvenience. They have to constantly care for him, prevent him from harming himself or others, and find him a source of blood.
H3 What is significant about the Baron’s insatiable hunger for virgin blood?
It highlights the vampires’ outdated and predatory views on sexuality. The concept of “virgin blood” is presented as both ridiculous and disturbing, reflecting their disconnect from modern values.
H3 How does Guillermo react to the zombie Baron?
He is disgusted and frustrated. He is forced to clean up the Baron’s messes and protect him from danger, all while receiving no recognition or appreciation.
H3 Does the episode reveal any new information about Guillermo’s vampire-hunting ancestry?
Not explicitly, but his natural aptitude for dealing with the zombie Baron could be interpreted as a subtle nod to his hidden abilities. His growing resentment also hints at a potential awakening of his Van Helsing lineage.
H3 What comedic devices are used in the episode?
The episode relies heavily on slapstick, situational irony, and deadpan delivery. The contrast between the vampires’ grand pronouncements and their mundane struggles is a recurring source of humor.
H3 How does “Resurrection” set the tone for the rest of Season 2?
It establishes the theme of unintended consequences and the vampires’ inability to learn from their mistakes. The episode also hints at the growing tension between Guillermo and the vampires.
H3 What commentary does the episode offer on power dynamics?
It subtly explores the potential for exploitation and abuse inherent in the vampire lifestyle. The Baron’s zombified state further amplifies this concern.
H3 How does the episode use horror tropes for comedic effect?
It subverts classic horror elements, such as the zombie, by presenting them in a mundane and absurd context. The vampires’ reactions to the zombie Baron are often more comedic than frightening.
H3 Besides virgin blood, what is the Baron’s diet like as a zombie?
Anything he can get his hands on. Human food, garbage, dirt – the Baron is not picky. This adds to the comical horror of his condition, emphasizing the degradation of a formerly powerful figure.
H3 What are some of the running gags established in “Resurrection”?
One is definitely Guillermo’s underappreciated servitude, as well as the vampires’ consistent inability to understand or utilize modern technology. The Baron’s grotesque state also becomes a recurring source of dark humor throughout the episode.