Under the direction of Ariane Louis-Seize, Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person interrogates a novel premise: What if a vampire harbors an inherent distaste for consuming human blood? This unique narrative is wonderfully woven with elements of compassion, humor, and ingenuity.
The narrative orbits around the adolescent vampire, Sasha (Sara Montpetit), who finds herself wrestling with the morbid expectations of her lineage. Her vampiric pedigree necessitates a diet of human blood, yet she finds herself at odds with this gruesome reality. Especially when it comes to taking a life.
From the first frame, I was instantly drawn in by the film’s quirky introduction. Sasha forms an unexpected emotional connection with a clown at her birthday party, oblivious to the fact that he was intended to be her inaugural feast, a tradition anticipated by her vampire kin.
The film deftly navigates the tumultuous waters of emotional trauma and compassion. Sasha’s father (Steve Laplante) exhibits empathy for her quandary, while her mother (Sophie Cadieux) insists on adherence to their vampiric tradition. Sasha’s refusal to succumb to her nature threatens her existence, leading her to find solace in meetings for individuals coping with depression. Upon crossing paths with the suicidal teenager, Paul (Félix-Antoine Bénard), Sasha perceives a potential resolution.
Their relationship evolves into an unconventional alliance, with Sasha striving to circumvent the necessity of ending his life. She posits the fulfillment of a final wish – to retaliate against his oppressor, Henry.
Despite some of the macabre elements, it exudes an endearing sweetness, effortlessly dismantling the barriers of societal norms. It encapsulates the essence of adolescent romanticism and life’s tribulations through a lens of humor and poignant commentary.
The film’s subdued color palette aligns with its tonal subtleties, while the remarkable performances of the young leads imbue the narrative with a sense of depth.
This melancholic dark comedy breathes new life into the vampire subgenre and emerged as an unexpected gem at this year’s festival, which I found utterly captivating.
Christine Doyon‘s script is a triumphant display of wit and deadpan humor. Sophie Cadieu delivers a stellar performance, her stoic resolve gradually unveiling a captivating expressiveness.
Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person intertwines elements of romance and a profound exploration of humanity. The film is a heartwarming and inventive cinematic experience that offers a refreshing deviation from conventional vampire narratives, proving both enthralling and unforeseen.
Simultaneously presenting a tale of supernatural creatures and an exploration of the human psyche, it leaves a lasting impression.
With an artful blend of dark comedy, fantasy, romance, and humanistic exploration, it’s a beacon of inventive filmmaking and is certain to delight discerning viewers.
Let’s breathe new life into familiar tropes or rather… get some fresh blood.
Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person had its premiere at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival.
Wonderfully Weird & Horrifying 