While the exact number can be debated depending on how you define “Fright Night movie,” the core Fright Night franchise officially consists of two films: the original 1985 Fright Night and its 1988 sequel, Fright Night Part 2. However, the story doesn’t end there, with remakes, reboots, and related works adding further layers to the franchise’s legacy.
A Deep Dive into the Fright Night Canon
The original Fright Night (1985), directed by Tom Holland, introduced audiences to Charley Brewster, a horror-obsessed teenager who discovers that his charming new neighbor, Jerry Dandrige, is a vampire. Assisted by Peter Vincent, a washed-up horror movie actor, Charley attempts to stop Jerry from preying on the local community. The film was a critical and commercial success, solidifying its place in horror history.
Fright Night Part 2 (1988) sees Charley, now undergoing therapy, confronting a female vampire named Regine Dandridge, sister of the deceased Jerry. Again enlisting the help of Peter Vincent, Charley must battle Regine and her unusual companions to save himself and those around him. While not as highly regarded as the original, it still holds a special place in the hearts of fans.
The 2011 remake, simply titled Fright Night, starred Anton Yelchin as Charley Brewster and Colin Farrell as Jerry Dandrige. This modern take offered a fresh perspective on the classic story while retaining its core themes.
The 2013 direct-to-video sequel to the remake, Fright Night 2: New Blood, featured Jaime Murray as Gerri Dandridge, a female art history professor and vampire in Romania. This installment offered a completely separate storyline from the previous films and didn’t involve any characters from the original or remake.
Navigating the Fright Night Universe: FAQs
To clarify the intricacies of the Fright Night franchise, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions:
H3 What are the official Fright Night movies?
The officially recognized films are:
- Fright Night (1985)
- Fright Night Part 2 (1988)
H3 Does the Fright Night (2011) remake count as part of the main series?
While it’s a remake of the original film, the 2011 Fright Night is generally considered part of the overall franchise but separate from the original continuity. It’s a modern reimagining of the story.
H3 Is Fright Night 2: New Blood a sequel to the original Fright Night films?
No, Fright Night 2: New Blood (2013) is a sequel to the 2011 remake, not the original films. It has no connection to the characters or storylines of the 1985 or 1988 movies.
H3 Who directed the original Fright Night?
The original Fright Night (1985) was directed by Tom Holland, who also wrote the screenplay.
H3 Who played Peter Vincent in the original Fright Night?
Roddy McDowall famously portrayed Peter Vincent, the washed-up horror movie actor who aids Charley Brewster in the original films. This role is considered one of his most iconic.
H3 Did Roddy McDowall reprise his role as Peter Vincent in Fright Night Part 2?
Yes, Roddy McDowall returned to play Peter Vincent in Fright Night Part 2 (1988), further cementing his association with the character.
H3 Who played Jerry Dandrige in the original Fright Night?
Chris Sarandon delivered a chilling and charismatic performance as the vampire Jerry Dandrige in the 1985 film.
H3 Who played Charley Brewster in the original Fright Night?
William Ragsdale played the role of Charley Brewster, the horror-obsessed teenager, in both the original Fright Night (1985) and Fright Night Part 2 (1988).
H3 Are there any plans for a new Fright Night movie or TV series?
As of the current date, there are no officially announced plans for a new Fright Night movie or television series. However, given the enduring popularity of the franchise, rumors and speculation frequently surface online. It’s always best to rely on official announcements from reputable sources.
H3 Where can I watch the Fright Night movies?
The availability of Fright Night movies on streaming platforms varies by region and time. Check popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Shudder for current listings. They are also often available for purchase or rental on digital platforms like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Additionally, physical copies (Blu-ray and DVD) can be found at retailers and online.
H3 What makes the original Fright Night so special?
The original Fright Night is celebrated for its blend of horror and humor, its memorable characters (particularly Peter Vincent and Jerry Dandrige), its innovative special effects for its time, and its clever meta-commentary on the horror genre. It’s a film that understands and celebrates the tropes of horror while still delivering genuine scares. Its self-aware approach set it apart from many of its contemporaries.
H3 Is there a difference between the Jerry Dandridge of the original Fright Night and the remake?
Yes, there are significant differences. While both are vampires named Jerry Dandridge, their personalities and backstories differ. Chris Sarandon’s Jerry in the original is more of a charming and sophisticated predator, while Colin Farrell’s Jerry in the remake is portrayed as a more brutal and aggressive killer. Their motivations and relationships with other characters also differ, reflecting the different approaches taken by the filmmakers.