British filmmakers’ Sean Cronin and Peter Stylianou’s London-based feature vampire film “Drained” has completed post-production and is headed to market at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France.
The supernatural horror film—which was co-directed and produced by Cronin and Peter Stylianou from a screenplay by the latter—was filmed in London, England. It follows Thomas, a jobless post-graduate concept artist who falls in love with Rhea, a mysterious woman who turns out to be a vampire. As their twisted romance unfolds, Thomas’s health deteriorates, and he spirals out of control.
“Stylistically, the film is a mesmerizing blend of darkness and beauty,” said Cronin. “With a neon-noir
aesthetic reminiscent of a night bus ride through London’s rain-soaked streets, we worked hard to capture the city’s underbelly, with a score and soundtrack that echoes the allure of ‘Drive’ with its synth 80s sound, striking the perfect balance between atmospheric and engaging.”
Ruaridh Aldington (“Dirty Boy”) and Madalina Bellariu Ion (“Dampyr”) star as the ill-fated couple, with a supporting cast that includes Craig Conway (“Dog Soldiers”), Angela Dixon (“Never Let Go”), Andrew Lyle-Pinnock, Natasha Patel (“The Witcher: Blood Origin”), Andrew Lee Potts (“Band of Brothers”), Matteo Pasquini (“Return to Silent Hill”), Diana Yekinni, Ayvianna Snow, Kenton Lloyd Morgan, and Timothy Blore.
“Beneath the surface of this vampiric romance, the film delves deeper, exploring the addictive nature of today’s society,” said Stylianou. “Just as Thomas becomes ensnared in Rhea’s world, modern life presents its own metaphorical vampires, be it social media, substance abuse, or other self-destructive habits. The film paints a striking portrait of why individuals give themselves to these draining forces.”
The film’s special makeup effects are by Francesca Reidie, with Ellie Campbell handling production design and cinematography by Daniel Patrick Vaughan.
“Drained” is a co-production of Magnificent Films, House 54, and Red Guerilla Films. Additional producers include Daniel Patrick Vaughan and Tony Currier.
“Drained” is the second Cannes Market announcement involving Cronin this week. The director and actor also directed and stars in the vampire road movie “Bogieville,” which had its first look party at the Festival on May 16.
