The wild west, with its lawless expanses and rugged landscapes, has always been fertile ground for storytelling. But what happens when you add a dash of the supernatural into this mix? You get the intriguing subgenre of vampire westerns, where the undead roam the prairies, and gunslingers face off against bloodsuckers. This collection of films showcases the best of this unique blend, offering viewers a thrilling ride through the Old West with a chilling twist. Whether you're a fan of westerns, horror, or just looking for something different, these films promise an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The Last Man on Earth (1964)
Description: While not a traditional western, this film's setting in a post-apocalyptic world where a scientist is the last human alive, fighting off vampire-like creatures, resonates with the isolation and survival themes of westerns.
Fact: This is the first adaptation of Richard Matheson's novel "I Am Legend," which also inspired "The Omega Man" and "I Am Legend."


Sundown: The Vampire in Retreat (1989)
Description: In this film, a town of vampires tries to live peacefully by avoiding sunlight, but their peaceful existence is threatened by a human developer. It's a unique take on the vampire mythos with a western setting.
Fact: The film features Bruce Campbell in a supporting role, and it was directed by Anthony Hickox, known for his work in horror-comedy.


From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)
Description: Although not strictly a western, this film captures the essence of the genre with its setting in a remote Mexican bar that turns into a vampire den. It's a wild ride with elements of crime, horror, and dark comedy.
Fact: The screenplay was written by Quentin Tarantino, who also stars in the film. It's known for its sudden genre shift from a crime thriller to a vampire movie.


The Forsaken (2001)
Description: A road trip turns into a nightmare when a young man picks up a hitchhiker who turns out to be a vampire. The film captures the essence of the open road and the isolation of the West.
Fact: The film was originally titled "The Forsaken: Desert Vampires" and was meant to be the first in a trilogy, but the sequels were never made.


Vampirella (1996)
Description: Vampirella, an alien vampire, arrives on Earth and teams up with a cowboy to fight evil. This film blends sci-fi, horror, and western elements in a campy, fun way.
Fact: The character Vampirella was created by Forrest J Ackerman for Warren Publishing's comic magazine of the same name.


The Dead and the Damned (2011)
Description: Set during the American Civil War, this film follows a Confederate soldier who must fight off a horde of vampires to survive. It's a low-budget but atmospheric blend of western and horror.
Fact: The film was shot in just 12 days, showcasing the efficiency of its production team.


Near Dark (1987)
Description: This film blends the vampire mythos with the American West, following a young man who falls for a mysterious woman, only to find out she's part of a nomadic gang of vampires. It's a gritty, atmospheric take on the vampire legend set against the backdrop of the modern West.
Fact: Kathryn Bigelow, who would later become the first woman to win an Academy Award for Best Director, helmed this film. It also features a young Bill Paxton in one of his breakout roles.


The Quick and the Undead (2006)
Description: A group of bounty hunters in the Old West must face off against a horde of zombies and vampires. It's a low-budget but entertaining mix of genres.
Fact: The film was shot in just 18 days, with the director also serving as the cinematographer.


BloodRayne: The Third Reich (2011)
Description: Although not set in the traditional American West, this film features a half-vampire, half-human dhampir in Nazi-occupied Europe, blending elements of western action with supernatural horror.
Fact: This is the third and final installment in the "BloodRayne" film series, based on the video game of the same name.


The Vampire (1913)
Description: One of the earliest vampire films, this silent movie features a vampire in a western setting, showcasing the genre's long history of blending with other genres.
Fact: This film was directed by Robert G. Vignola and is one of the first vampire films ever made, predating even "Nosferatu."
