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Laramie Movie Scope:
Vampire in Brooklyn

A shoddy comic vampire movie

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by Robert Roten, Film Critic
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October 31, 1995 -- ``Vampire in Brooklyn,'' is a real waste of talent. Eddie Murphy, who achieved stardom in ``Beverly Hills Cop'' as a smooth-talking funny man, here plays a ruthless and evil vampire.

Angela Bassett, who was fabulous as Tina Turner in ``What's Love Got to Do With It,'' gives a heroic performance in this film despite a very bad script. You can see her straining to squeeze some meaning and dignity out of her character.

Murphy does a pretty good job in several roles, including that of a minister, who preaches a sermon that evil is good. Allen Payne also does a good job as Angela Bassett's cop partner. John Witherspoon does a very funny turn as Murphy's landlord.

Acting is not the problem with this film. The problem is that the screenwriters, Charles Murphy, Michael Lucker and Chris Parker seemed confused about how to combine the elements of a love story, a horror story and a comedy. I don't know if it is possible successfully combine those disparate elements, but it sure didn't work here.

Eddie Murphy is a talented actor, but his career is in dire need of an overhaul. This was another breakdown. The film is directed by horror film specialist Wes Craven (``Nightmare on Elm Street'' and ``Shocker''). Craven's career isn't looking too bright, either.

If you want a film that successfully combines horror and comedy, try renting ``Fright Night'' or ``An American Werewolf in London.'' This film rates a C-.

Click here for links to places to buy this movie in video and/or DVD format, the soundtrack, books, even used videos, games and lots of other stuff. I suggest you shop at least two of these places before buying anything. Prices seem to vary continuously. For more information on this film, click on this link to The Internet Movie Database. Type in the name of the movie in the search box and press enter. You will be able to find background information on the film, the actors, and links to much more information.

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Robert Roten can be reached via e-mail at my last name at lariat dot org. [Mailer button: image of letter and envelope]

(If you e-mail me with a question about this or any other movie or review, please mention the name of the movie you are asking the question about, otherwise I may have no way of knowing which film you are referring to)