The Vampires or, The Arch Criminals of Paris

Plot

Les Vampires follows journalist Philippe Guérande and his sidekick Oscar Mazamette as they investigate a mysterious criminal organization known as The Vampires who terrorize Paris with their elaborate schemes and daring crimes. The gang, led by the enigmatic Grand Vampire and his deadly accomplice Irma Vep, employs sophisticated methods including disguise, poison, and elaborate heists to achieve their goals. Throughout the ten episodes, Guérande and Mazamette face numerous dangers as they attempt to dismantle the criminal network, with Guérande even being captured and subjected to the Vampires' deadly rituals. The serial features a cat-and-mouse game between the investigators and criminals, with constant plot twists, betrayals, and narrow escapes. The story culminates in a final confrontation where the fate of Paris hangs in the balance as the last remnants of the Vampire gang are brought to justice.

Historical Background

Les Vampires was produced during the height of World War I, when Paris was under threat of German occupation. The film's themes of urban terror and criminal conspiracy resonated deeply with audiences living through the actual terror of war. Despite wartime censorship and material shortages, Gaumont continued production, recognizing cinema's importance as morale-boosting entertainment. The serial's depiction of Paris as a city under siege by invisible enemies mirrored real wartime anxieties. The film's sophisticated criminal organization reflected contemporary fears about spy networks and enemy agents operating within civilian populations. The production itself was an act of cultural resistance, maintaining French cinematic excellence during one of the country's darkest periods.

Making Of

Louis Feuillade, already an established director at Gaumont, conceived Les Vampires as a follow-up to his successful Fantômas serials. The production faced numerous challenges during wartime, including cast members being drafted into military service mid-production. Musidora was cast as Irma Vep after Feuillade saw her in a theater production and was struck by her mysterious presence. The famous black costume was designed to be practical for stunt work while creating an instantly recognizable silhouette. Many of the death-defying stunts were performed by the actors themselves without safety equipment. The serial's success led to increased security at Gaumont studios to prevent plot leaks, as rival studios attempted to copy the formula. Feuillade worked with a small team of writers to develop the increasingly complex plotlines, often writing episodes just days before filming to respond to audience reactions.

Visual Style

The cinematography by Gustave Preiss and others pioneered techniques that would become standard in crime cinema. The extensive use of real Paris locations created unprecedented authenticity, with the camera capturing the city's actual streets, rooftops, and landmarks. Innovative low-angle shots emphasized the criminals' power and menace, while dramatic shadows and silhouettes enhanced the atmosphere of mystery. The famous scenes of Irma Vep climbing walls and leaping between rooftops were filmed with dynamic camera movement that was revolutionary for 1915. The serial employed sophisticated editing techniques including cross-cutting between simultaneous actions to build suspense. Night scenes were shot using available light and clever set design to create authentic darkness without compromising visibility.

Innovations

Les Vampires pioneered numerous technical innovations including extensive location shooting, which was rare and difficult in 1915. The production developed new camera mobility techniques allowing for dynamic movement through Paris streets and buildings. The serial's complex special effects, including apparent levitation and disappearances, were achieved through ingenious in-camera methods and editing tricks. The production team created sophisticated makeup and prosthetic effects for the various disguises used by the criminals. The film's editing techniques, particularly its use of suspense-building cross-cutting, influenced generations of filmmakers. The serial's success demonstrated the commercial viability of long-form narrative cinema, essentially creating the template for future television series.

Music

As a silent film, Les Vampires was originally accompanied by live musical performances in theaters. Gaumont provided suggested musical cues and themes for each episode, with specific motifs for different characters - Irma Vep was accompanied by mysterious, seductive melodies while action scenes featured dramatic, percussive music. Modern restorations have featured newly composed scores by artists including Air (the French electronic duo) for the Criterion Collection release. The contemporary theatrical experience often included sound effects created by theater musicians, including gunshots, screams, and atmospheric noises to enhance the viewing experience. The original musical suggestions emphasized the serial's French identity with influences from popular Parisian café music and classical French composers.

Memorable Scenes

• Irma Vep's first appearance climbing the exterior of a Paris apartment building in her signature black bodysuit
• The Grand Vampire's elaborate initiation ceremony with its ritualistic symbolism
• The poison gas attack on the ballroom sequence with victims mysteriously collapsing
• The rooftop chase across Parisian rooftops at night
• The final unmasking scene where multiple layers of disguise are revealed
• Irma Vep's transformation from criminal to victim in the later episodes

What Critics Said

Contemporary French critics were divided, with some praising the film's technical innovation and suspense while others condemned it as immoral and potentially criminogenic. Le Figaro called it 'a dangerous influence on youth' while Le Film praised its 'ingenious plotting and remarkable execution'. International critics were more uniformly positive, with American publications hailing it as 'the most thrilling motion picture ever produced'. Modern critics universally recognize Les Vampires as a masterpiece of early cinema, with the Criterion Collection release and restoration earning widespread acclaim. The film now holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is regularly cited in lists of the greatest films ever made.

What Audiences Thought

The serial was an enormous commercial success in France, with audiences lining up around blocks for each new episode's release. The cliffhanger endings created unprecedented audience engagement, with newspapers and magazines filled with speculation about upcoming plot developments. The character of Irma Vep became a cultural phenomenon, with women imitating her distinctive look and fashion. International audiences embraced the film despite language barriers, leading to unauthorized versions and adaptations worldwide. The serial's success spawned merchandise including postcards, toys, and even Irma Vep-branded cosmetics. Modern audiences continue to be captivated by the film, with screenings at film festivals and art cinemas consistently selling out.

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