Come (Bite) Back! How the Undead are Re-imagining Genre

Whether it is bite-sized horror shorts or fanged comedies, vampire films are experiencing a renaissance. But the question remains, who exactly is biting whom, and what is the attraction of the blood-sucking material? This Berlinale Retrospective discussion is dedicated to exploring the latest developments and interpretations of the vampire legend in German films, television, and streaming. Creative director Farah Bouamar, screenwriter Samuel Gheist, and author/director Till Kleinert talk to moderator Jenni Zylka about the return of the vampire film and current trends in the genre. The panelists will explore how the various forms of vampire stories both get and give new impetus, providing fresh blood for dark narratives and sharp-edged, humorous interpretations. For Jenni Zylka, they open up the discourse on relevant political and controversial subjects, while also expanding the cinematic vocabulary, creaking coffin lid not included.