Available now for streaming is the 1999 UK miniseries Ultraviolet, a modern and high-tech take on vampires. Stylish and edgy, the series follows police detective Michael Colefield as he delves into the mystery of his missing partner, who disappeared just before his wedding day, and is drawn into a worldwide conspiracy set to allow vampires to take over the world. Starring Jack Davenport, perhaps best known to American audiences from his turn in the Pirates of the Caribbean films but well known to his native British audience from his comedic role in the sitcom Coupling, the film makes clear that vampires are the focus all the while dancing around using the actual word. Very clever and well written, the series also stars Idris Alba, who won a 2011 Golden Globe for the title role in the series Luther.
This series goes against the grain in what most would consider classic vampire films, but does so in such a sleek and stylish manner that it manages to impress all the while creating its own lore. For those who are tired of Dracula clones and teenage vamps in lust, Ultraviolet is the perfect refresher in the genre we all know and love. Definitely worth your time.
