Near Dark
1987's NEAR DARK has a pretty solid reputation as a cult item. It would be director Kathryn Bigelow's first solo gig and for many she fashioned a stylish fusion of horror, action, and Western. A curiosity with memorable set pieces and an edgier take on vampire lore than the same year's THE LOST BOYS. These descriptions are all fair, and when I revisited this movie after many years I was pleased to learn I actually really do dig it. I had vague memories of watching it on HBO in the late '80s and not being too impressed. Maybe because I was such a fan of that other aforementioned "sleep all day" and "you must feed" movie. My sensibilities for more indie type cinema were still in their infancy. Caleb (Adrian Pasdar) is attracted to Mae (Jenny Wright). She agrees to a ride in his pickup, but seems reluctant to get close. Also, very anxious to get home before sun up. When she relents to a kiss she gets carried away and sinks h...
