I have to agree with the first comment posted; that the pilot was weak and the rest of the shows were excellent. Nobody gives a damn how close it was to the game...and quite frankly, I find it offensive that someone will get all self righteous about it...but that's not why I'm posting. Great show. The story was very consuming and kept your attention. Much is to be said for that these days as a lot of shows don't keep your attention any longer than a few airings. I have to say that (unfortunately), the best shows are usually the ones that get cancelled: Kindred, Earth2, S:AAB, to name a few. The general public isn't ready to devote regular hours to a little continuity. They are more apt to tune in for the occasional 30 minutes of overused situational B.S. Anyway, great show, I sure wish there was a way to see more.
48 Reviews
Rather Disappointing...
Imagicka3 February 2002
After seeing someone else's comments who was quite happy to insult the roleplaying game in which this show was based on, I felt I had to cast a rebuttal as a fan of the roleplaying game.
As mentioned, Kindred the Embraced is based on the 'World of Darkness (tm)' that the gaming company White-Wolf created called Vampire the Masquerade. A world/game rich in vampire culture, politics, history and diversity. A game which spawned numerous other games for White-Wolf, card games, and a computer game, as well help to create a new roleplaying market, the live-action roleplaying game. As well revitalized the roleplaying gaming industry almost single-handedly, by bringing in new players and capturing the imagination of 'old-guard' gamers alike; also attracting the attention of players who would have never been interested in roleplaying, or those who had played before and didn't like it.
These aren't suppose to be Dracula-like vampires, or Buffy-Like vampires. These are the movers and the shakers of the world who hide in shadows controlling the media, the press, the government, the police, and anything else that holds their interest. Not mindless blood-suckers who are hell-bent on destruction and evil. Don't get me wrong, being alive for a few hundred years can make some vampires very evil and twisted creatures, but enough of that...
The series was rather poorly done simply because they didn't even try to delve into culture that the game created. The structure of the kindred politics is a league called the Camarilla, who consists of seven clans who work together under a set of laws known as the Traditions to uphold something they refer to as the Masquerade.
These clans are: The Ventrue (regal blue-bloods who are snobby but think they should control the camarilla); The Brujah (anarchists and rebels who shouldn't have been suit wearing mofia-types, who strive for change and think the camarilla is outdated and corrupt); The Gangrel (wild, animalistic loners who can control, communicate and change into animals like bats and wolves); The Toreador (artists, artistic poseurs, gossip-mongers and hangers-on who care more for style and art than substance); and the Nosferatu (hideous, ugly, monsters, yet also reserved and sneaky, who dwell in sewers and abandoned places, but are the intelligence community/network of the kindred, knowing everything that is going on, and selling it for a price). As well as two others I'll mention below.
I found the show was more about the human cop, and reporter who the Prince takes a personal interest in, as well as the relationships of the 'Primogens' (the heads of each of the clans) than it was about what I think would have made the show more interesting and marketable, the culture, history and politics, and the abilities of the kindred themselves. As well as the multitude of arch-types of characters that each clan creates by their own attitudes and ideals.
Another fault of the show was, the fact that it seemed that all the vampires had the same powers and abilities. The Primogen of the Toreador, Lily, was able to turn herself into a wolf, an ability which is usually only reserved for the older and more powerful members of the Gangrel. Or the prince, Julian, was able to 'Earth-Meld', again, an ability only the Gangrel subscribe to.
They should have had a stronger division between the clans, explained that each clan has their own philosophies and ideals, as well as abilities and powers. Not to mention, two of the most interesting clans weren't even included in the show. The Malkavians, a clan of insane vampires who also have moments of sheer genius, insight and enlightenment. Or the Tremere, a tight-knit conspiratorial clan who are able to cast magic spells through the use of vampiric blood.
The show should have been about a group of newly embraced (the term used for being turned into a vampire) vampire childer, the relationships they developed with their sires, each other, and their exploration into the world of the kindred. As the newly embraced kindred learn about their respective clans and abilities, and politics, so do the audience.
Who are these Primogen? Why do they control the clans? Who is the Prince of the city? Why does he call himself the prince? What is the Camarilla? What/who are the Sabbat? Why do they want to destroy the Camarilla? Questions that would have kept the audience wondering, as well as the character guessing about. It would have made the show more interesting in my opinion.
As well, there is a rich culture and history behind each of the clans that make up the Camarilla. This information was poorly utilitized in the show, and they displayed some of this information rather matter-a-factly. Such as an introduction of an Assamite Kindred Assassin. They barely touched on what 'The Masquerade' was, why the kindred had it, and why clans such as the Brujah and the Gangrel who clearly distrusted and hated one another would work together in the Camarilla under a Ventrue prince such as Julian. Nor did they adequately explain who 'Archon' was, and what his purpose was.
I feel it would have been much more interesting and fascinating to the audience at large to concentrate on the difference add the character-types of each of the vampire clans than to have made it a soap-opera bombastic gothic-horror version of Melrose Place, or 90210. A lot of fans of the roleplaying game felt that Aaron Spelling was not interested at all in the diversity and information that the roleplaying game supplied and in fact ignored almost all of it.
As a fan of the Roleplaying game, I was sorely disappointed, as were a lot of other Vampire the Masquerade fans.
As mentioned, Kindred the Embraced is based on the 'World of Darkness (tm)' that the gaming company White-Wolf created called Vampire the Masquerade. A world/game rich in vampire culture, politics, history and diversity. A game which spawned numerous other games for White-Wolf, card games, and a computer game, as well help to create a new roleplaying market, the live-action roleplaying game. As well revitalized the roleplaying gaming industry almost single-handedly, by bringing in new players and capturing the imagination of 'old-guard' gamers alike; also attracting the attention of players who would have never been interested in roleplaying, or those who had played before and didn't like it.
These aren't suppose to be Dracula-like vampires, or Buffy-Like vampires. These are the movers and the shakers of the world who hide in shadows controlling the media, the press, the government, the police, and anything else that holds their interest. Not mindless blood-suckers who are hell-bent on destruction and evil. Don't get me wrong, being alive for a few hundred years can make some vampires very evil and twisted creatures, but enough of that...
The series was rather poorly done simply because they didn't even try to delve into culture that the game created. The structure of the kindred politics is a league called the Camarilla, who consists of seven clans who work together under a set of laws known as the Traditions to uphold something they refer to as the Masquerade.
These clans are: The Ventrue (regal blue-bloods who are snobby but think they should control the camarilla); The Brujah (anarchists and rebels who shouldn't have been suit wearing mofia-types, who strive for change and think the camarilla is outdated and corrupt); The Gangrel (wild, animalistic loners who can control, communicate and change into animals like bats and wolves); The Toreador (artists, artistic poseurs, gossip-mongers and hangers-on who care more for style and art than substance); and the Nosferatu (hideous, ugly, monsters, yet also reserved and sneaky, who dwell in sewers and abandoned places, but are the intelligence community/network of the kindred, knowing everything that is going on, and selling it for a price). As well as two others I'll mention below.
I found the show was more about the human cop, and reporter who the Prince takes a personal interest in, as well as the relationships of the 'Primogens' (the heads of each of the clans) than it was about what I think would have made the show more interesting and marketable, the culture, history and politics, and the abilities of the kindred themselves. As well as the multitude of arch-types of characters that each clan creates by their own attitudes and ideals.
Another fault of the show was, the fact that it seemed that all the vampires had the same powers and abilities. The Primogen of the Toreador, Lily, was able to turn herself into a wolf, an ability which is usually only reserved for the older and more powerful members of the Gangrel. Or the prince, Julian, was able to 'Earth-Meld', again, an ability only the Gangrel subscribe to.
They should have had a stronger division between the clans, explained that each clan has their own philosophies and ideals, as well as abilities and powers. Not to mention, two of the most interesting clans weren't even included in the show. The Malkavians, a clan of insane vampires who also have moments of sheer genius, insight and enlightenment. Or the Tremere, a tight-knit conspiratorial clan who are able to cast magic spells through the use of vampiric blood.
The show should have been about a group of newly embraced (the term used for being turned into a vampire) vampire childer, the relationships they developed with their sires, each other, and their exploration into the world of the kindred. As the newly embraced kindred learn about their respective clans and abilities, and politics, so do the audience.
Who are these Primogen? Why do they control the clans? Who is the Prince of the city? Why does he call himself the prince? What is the Camarilla? What/who are the Sabbat? Why do they want to destroy the Camarilla? Questions that would have kept the audience wondering, as well as the character guessing about. It would have made the show more interesting in my opinion.
As well, there is a rich culture and history behind each of the clans that make up the Camarilla. This information was poorly utilitized in the show, and they displayed some of this information rather matter-a-factly. Such as an introduction of an Assamite Kindred Assassin. They barely touched on what 'The Masquerade' was, why the kindred had it, and why clans such as the Brujah and the Gangrel who clearly distrusted and hated one another would work together in the Camarilla under a Ventrue prince such as Julian. Nor did they adequately explain who 'Archon' was, and what his purpose was.
I feel it would have been much more interesting and fascinating to the audience at large to concentrate on the difference add the character-types of each of the vampire clans than to have made it a soap-opera bombastic gothic-horror version of Melrose Place, or 90210. A lot of fans of the roleplaying game felt that Aaron Spelling was not interested at all in the diversity and information that the roleplaying game supplied and in fact ignored almost all of it.
As a fan of the Roleplaying game, I was sorely disappointed, as were a lot of other Vampire the Masquerade fans.
Vampire the Masquerade:Bloodline inspired T.V. Show
jseph1234-262-61748828 July 2016
I am watching this series and being a HUGE fan of White Wolf's Vampire the Masquerade:Bloodlines and their World of Darkness books I was really enjoying how the writing and each episode was getting better and better.
The Producer and Writers slowly ease you into the life of the Vampires and as the series progresses you get more and more familiar with the horror and tragedy of the life of the Kindred.
Wish they had been able to continue the series but due to the tragic death of Mark Frankel who portrayed Ventrue Prince Julian, the story was not able to continue for the next season...sad but that is the life of the Kindred and the curse they lived under...sad
The Producer and Writers slowly ease you into the life of the Vampires and as the series progresses you get more and more familiar with the horror and tragedy of the life of the Kindred.
Wish they had been able to continue the series but due to the tragic death of Mark Frankel who portrayed Ventrue Prince Julian, the story was not able to continue for the next season...sad but that is the life of the Kindred and the curse they lived under...sad
Kindred wasn't necessarily axed, dude!
darrenrobb2923 August 2009
Warning: Spoilers
To the dude who made the comment about Kindred getting canceled wasn't really up on his facts, the way I understand them. The reason why Kindred was on for one season was that its main star and prince, Mark Frankel unfortunately died in a fatal motorcycle accident. It wasn't because of 90210 or any other show. It's rather difficult to continue a show, no matter how freaking awesome, when Julian Luna is dead. I can't believe Fox wasn't smart enough to put stipulations in his contract, as do other shows and movies, forbidding their stars to do such things that can result in injury or death. It's terrible that he had to die at an early age, but I'll forever get to see him when I watch my Kindred tapes. : (
The show had a lot of potential
pgrantm22 September 2010
I thought this show had a lot of potential. Look at how popular True Blood, Twilight, Vampire Diaries, and all of the other vampire-themed projects have become. I think this could have lasted a few seasons, at least.
But FOX, in all their 'wisdom', were going for a more mainstream audience, with 90210, etc. This show was canceled 9 episodes in (very much like 'Firefly'; I guess FOX doesn't know a good show when it bites them on the... ahem). Showtime was in talks to pick up the show and make new episodes, but the actor playing Julian Luna (Mark Frankel) died in a motorcycle accident, which put an end to the negotiations. Very sad.
Some people who played the game upon which this show was based (Vampire: The Masquerade) didn't like the changes that the show made in the vampire clans and powers; but you always have to change some things when you translate a game or book into a Movie or TV show. There is no way the show's budget could've afforded the special effects needed to be absolutely faithful to the game. People need to realize the real world limitations involved, and be happy with what they can get.
But FOX, in all their 'wisdom', were going for a more mainstream audience, with 90210, etc. This show was canceled 9 episodes in (very much like 'Firefly'; I guess FOX doesn't know a good show when it bites them on the... ahem). Showtime was in talks to pick up the show and make new episodes, but the actor playing Julian Luna (Mark Frankel) died in a motorcycle accident, which put an end to the negotiations. Very sad.
Some people who played the game upon which this show was based (Vampire: The Masquerade) didn't like the changes that the show made in the vampire clans and powers; but you always have to change some things when you translate a game or book into a Movie or TV show. There is no way the show's budget could've afforded the special effects needed to be absolutely faithful to the game. People need to realize the real world limitations involved, and be happy with what they can get.
Better than Buffy or Angel-without a doubt!!!
spree_697 May 2006
This set has it all...Danger, intrigue, Love, Loathing, Desire and Death. The darkness is irresistible. Without a doubt one of the better series that came out in the 90's but was deemed "too sexy for T.V." by the critics. If they'd have just waited for Buffy to come out it would have been a hit, possibly even more popular than Buffy. The characters are unforgettable. Julian is without a doubt the Prince of the City. I absolutely loved the chemistry between Cash and Sasha. Daedales gave the true meaning to the word vampire. And the clan war?! Without a doubt...a must see. Without a doubt, the bad guys are bad, the good guys naughty, and the characters will stay with you long after the credits roll!!!
Aaron Spelling produces a soap opera about vampires
lordclaymore25 April 2011
If you are a fan of Vampire: the Masquerade you will be disappointed and annoyed. The clans of the Camarilla are there, but the notable things that distinguish them are mostly missing, every kindred can shape shift in this universe and all of the "really" cool clans are gone. No Malkavians, no Sabbat, no Independents, no Tremere, and Nosferatu are just bald with funny shaped ears. People who aren't fans will find a decent soap opera-type show with iffy acting and cool vampire intrigue stuff, but overall this series is a disappointment and I just want to know who to blame. The music is very good, and the opening is fantastic. I would love to see something done with a closer eye to the correct continuity, but that will never happen.
I loved the show.
henryg10 January 2005
I loved the show and never missed one. We even played the role playing game longer than the show lasted. I wish it ran longer or I wish someone would bring it back. It was very interesting with all the different characters, the clans and how they interacted in the city and with all the normal non-vampires in the city too. They were in their own little world and they were also in the normal world, that made it interesting to me. It made you wonder if they are really some out there, the way some people act. The story was great and they could have did more with it if it had lasted longer. I recommend watching it, if it is out there somewhere. I grew up watching Dark Shadows so I have always loved vampires. I also wish there was a cast list for the show on this site. I have seen some of the actors since but don't know their names.
Potential Potential Potential Potential!!!!!
Tsujigiri26 August 2004
This series could actually have been a big hit, although based on the Roleplaying game 'Vampire - The Masquerade' it has potential both for fans of the game and for Joe public.
However it manages to fall somewhere between the two groups never managing to ensnare fans from either.
The acting is all fairly good, no outstanding performances but generally believable and the actors all manage to take the established game jargon in their stride.
Quite watchable, but if you're not a Vampire -TM fan, then it will probably leave you cold, then again if you are a Vampire TM fan...it will leave you very frustrated at what it could have been.
However it manages to fall somewhere between the two groups never managing to ensnare fans from either.
The acting is all fairly good, no outstanding performances but generally believable and the actors all manage to take the established game jargon in their stride.
Quite watchable, but if you're not a Vampire -TM fan, then it will probably leave you cold, then again if you are a Vampire TM fan...it will leave you very frustrated at what it could have been.
Kindred the Embraced
MystikIcon16 February 2008
I watched this show, being a fan of the roleplaying game. I found that of course like most shows or movies based on various earlier forms, it lacked the structure of it's original outline. This could be overlooked if it only had excellent actors, interesting plots lines, and prehaps some realism (real to the situation). One main problem with this show was thinking of these undead beings, having lived hundreds of years, and falling in love with every woman they crossed paths with. They are dead, thus with the except of their brain, their organs don't function. I don't care if you know the game or not, that is just the way it is. I know this series was created by those who brought us Charmed, and that love aspect worked pretty well with that show though at times it was entirely too much. I feel that it was inapproiate for this show. Also, RPG aside, the prince should come across as a high political figure... yet he seems to do all the dirty work himself. Both in the game, and in my opinion he would use a sheriff or some kind of right hand man to carry out his orders. Sunlight is another thing... it really takes away from the beauty and mystery that is the vampire when they can manipulate their only true, universal weakness they have. Just like with Blade, it makes me cringe at the thought of a vampire walking into broad daylight with no concern what so ever. They also took all the stereotypes of each of the few clans they included in this series and blew them way out of propotion, not to mention completely screw with the Assamites. A few good parts of the show, namely why I didn't give it a 1, was some plots had a chance to come to fruition... only to fail at climax of the episode. They did also keep a few things true to the game: the names of clans, certain aspects of those clans, blood tears, beastal nature, and some parts of their political structure. Of the entire cast, only the prince played by Mark Frankel, was the only decent enough actor to mention. Sadly he died in a motorcycle accident shortly after making the series. Though if you have never played the game, don't care about vampires much, only require minimal acting talent, and love drama especially dealing with love (perhaps a huge Charmed fan) then this show may peek your interest. Don't get too excited though, there was only 8 episodes ever made.
A well casted well written show
adam226815 July 2008
Kindred: The Embraced was truly one of the best shows that aired on television. The late Mark Frankel was fabulous with Kelly Rutherford and C. Thomas Howell and the rest of the cast had a good chemistry.Kindred had you almost believing that Vampires exist among us. The show was truly entertaining, so much so I bought the DVD set. I regret that the show was short lived. The biggest tragedy was the fatal accident that took the life of Mark Frankel he played the part so well I was captivated with his portrayal of Julian Luna, he was and ever shall be missed. The only show recently that aired was Moonlight.Regrettably CBS made the unwise decision to ax that show.
Decent 'vampire' series.
stuart-smith72921 October 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I went into this knowing it was cancelled without a proper end but it stars C Thomas Howell who I've always enjoyed and the excellent Kelly Rutherford from Briscoe.
With other cancelled series this really picked up in the last few episodes, but worth watching. There's little or know violence, neck biting etc so easy watching.
With other cancelled series this really picked up in the last few episodes, but worth watching. There's little or know violence, neck biting etc so easy watching.
If you thought "Twilight" made vampires look bad...
Jetset97110 November 2012
Warning: Spoilers
Oh how these people got it so wrong. I, along with my friends, played Kindred The Embraced and enjoy the escapism of the make believe world of vampires. When the series came out we were all excited and couldn't wait to see how this would be done. Trust me, we could have waited.
I could point out massive creative errors and flat out ridiculous decisions that were made, like the fact that the ghastly horrific looking "Nosferatu" clan were not even attempted to be made up to look terrifying. No they all looked like rejects from the curly stooge fan club. I think the biggest mistake was trying to pass this thing off as a melding of Gothic horror and cheesy soap opera level scripts. I can only equate it to the "twilight" series way of ruining the vampiric legend.
Easy to see how this disaster never got past its first season.
I could point out massive creative errors and flat out ridiculous decisions that were made, like the fact that the ghastly horrific looking "Nosferatu" clan were not even attempted to be made up to look terrifying. No they all looked like rejects from the curly stooge fan club. I think the biggest mistake was trying to pass this thing off as a melding of Gothic horror and cheesy soap opera level scripts. I can only equate it to the "twilight" series way of ruining the vampiric legend.
Easy to see how this disaster never got past its first season.
Loved; sad
lynnewcats29 August 2005
This was a wonderful series, full of interesting and charismatic actors. I've followed Patrick Bauchau, for example, ever since, especially as Sydney in The Pretender. The really sad thing is that the star, Mark Frankel,who played Julian Luna, was killed in a motorcycle accident the summer after the series wrapped, leaving a wife and two small children. Don't know if the show had any chance of continuing, but obviously that was the end of that -- and a promising career and life. Too bad there aren't real vampires, so he could have survived beyond the tragedy!
As I understand it, some of those who had played the game on which it was based were unhappy with the show -- they felt it didn't really do justice to its complexity or follow its rules. Never having played the game, I had no such reservations. I thought the show was well-written and excitingly paced, and would recommend the set to anyone interested in this genre.
As I understand it, some of those who had played the game on which it was based were unhappy with the show -- they felt it didn't really do justice to its complexity or follow its rules. Never having played the game, I had no such reservations. I thought the show was well-written and excitingly paced, and would recommend the set to anyone interested in this genre.
Better than I thought it would be.
sakerson128 February 2001
I didn't have high hopes for this series. It was based off of a roleplaying game called "Vampire: the Masquerade," which spawned similar horror RPGs in which you play one of the "monsters." The entire series of RPGs is known as "The World of Darkness." Hogwash. It's a game that is largely played by people obsessed with death and need more cash to have their anti-depressant subscription refilled.
However, this series really impressed me. The main characters are all vampires who live in the city of San Francisco. Each of them belong to various divisions called "clans," and each clan has it's own desires and ideas. The Bruja are criminals, the Ventrue are the thinkers, the Gangrel are the wild ones, the Toreador are the artists, and the Nosferatu are the beasts (though they can act more humane than many humans). The series is largely about the interactions between these clans. Also thrown into the mix is a cop, who found out his girlfriend was one of the kindred (what vampires refer to themselves as). Just before she died, she begged the Prince (the leader of all kindred within the city) to protect him, even though kindred law states that a mortal who discovers their existence must either be embraced (i.e. turned into kindred) or killed. The Prince agrees, even though the cop wants to expose kindred to the world (as long as he can trust his partner...). Then there are the numerous sub plots. The Prince (Julian) has fallen for a human woman and is trying to hide his nature from her, while his former lover (a Toreador) plots to destroy her. A Gangrel (a biker) and a Bruja (the daughter of the Prince, turned by the Bruja against her will) are in love with one another, even though their clans are constantly at war with one another. The leader of the Bruja wishes to take over control of San Francisco and constantly plots to do so. And on and on it goes....
The series only lasted some eight episodes, but it showed lots of promise. It really portrayed vampires not as immortal creatures (ala Anne Rice and Nancy Collins), but as a sub-species of humans who are merely trying to get by in spite of their internal politics that can get quite deadly at times. If you ever get a chance to see it, I strongly recommend it. The only drawback to the series is the end (it ends on a major cliffhanger, but the series was never renewed so you never get to find out what happened). Of all the modern vampire stories, this one is the best. Lestat, Sonja Blue... take a hike! If there are vampires, then they are kindred.
However, this series really impressed me. The main characters are all vampires who live in the city of San Francisco. Each of them belong to various divisions called "clans," and each clan has it's own desires and ideas. The Bruja are criminals, the Ventrue are the thinkers, the Gangrel are the wild ones, the Toreador are the artists, and the Nosferatu are the beasts (though they can act more humane than many humans). The series is largely about the interactions between these clans. Also thrown into the mix is a cop, who found out his girlfriend was one of the kindred (what vampires refer to themselves as). Just before she died, she begged the Prince (the leader of all kindred within the city) to protect him, even though kindred law states that a mortal who discovers their existence must either be embraced (i.e. turned into kindred) or killed. The Prince agrees, even though the cop wants to expose kindred to the world (as long as he can trust his partner...). Then there are the numerous sub plots. The Prince (Julian) has fallen for a human woman and is trying to hide his nature from her, while his former lover (a Toreador) plots to destroy her. A Gangrel (a biker) and a Bruja (the daughter of the Prince, turned by the Bruja against her will) are in love with one another, even though their clans are constantly at war with one another. The leader of the Bruja wishes to take over control of San Francisco and constantly plots to do so. And on and on it goes....
The series only lasted some eight episodes, but it showed lots of promise. It really portrayed vampires not as immortal creatures (ala Anne Rice and Nancy Collins), but as a sub-species of humans who are merely trying to get by in spite of their internal politics that can get quite deadly at times. If you ever get a chance to see it, I strongly recommend it. The only drawback to the series is the end (it ends on a major cliffhanger, but the series was never renewed so you never get to find out what happened). Of all the modern vampire stories, this one is the best. Lestat, Sonja Blue... take a hike! If there are vampires, then they are kindred.
Kindred: The Embraced
avis-calhoun31 December 2007
I remember this short lived show. I don't know why or if this show was taken off the air. I know the actor playing Julian, Mark Frankel was killed in a tragic accident. I recently saw it on the Sci-fi channel and realized Adrienne Paul could have taken over the role of Julian. If you don't remember who Adrienne Paul is, he's the actor that played the lead role in the Highlander TV series. The Sci-fi channel showed a couple of episodes in early December 2007. Adrienne Paul is a dead ringer for Mark Frankel. That series could have continued to run. Does anyone know what happened or why it was canceled? I loved that show and until the Sci-fi channel showed it recently I had forgotten all about it.
Actors on "The Kindred"
annettemyers26 April 2006
I was so sad when this show ended. I LOVED it! The name of the lead actor was Mark Frankel, the young dark-haired guy. He was killed in a motorcycle accident in England. Another actor I remember from this show is Patrick Bauchau. He also starred on "The Pretender"...another great show. Stacy Haiduk was also on it, she used to be on Seaquest DSV. Kelly Rutherford who I believe played a reporter, most recently from E-Ring. And let's not forget C. Thomas Howell aka Ponyboy from The Outsiders! Since I've given up hope that the show will ever come back, they should at least put it on DVD for posterity sake. I would buy it in a heartbeat!
unsuccessful Aaron Spelling vampire show
SnoopyStyle29 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
San Francisco police detective Frank Kohanek (C. Thomas Howell) and his partner Sonny Toussaint encounter a case of spontaneous human combustion upon exposure to sunlight. He has stumbled upon a secret society of vampires. He starts dating Alexandra Serris who turns out to be one of them. After a devastating lost, he vows to expose this secret underworld. Caitlin Byrne (Kelly Rutherford) is an investigative reporter. Julian Luna (Mark Frankel) is the prince of the city and leader of Clan Ventrue. His niece Sasha Luna (Brigid Walsh) is his last human relative.
Aaron Spelling is trying to do sexy vampires on Fox. This one fails but he tries again two years later with sexy witches. Charmed has many similarities with this show but a lot different. This is not fun and cheesy. It's overwrought and trying to be brooding. It doesn't have enough action. More than anything, C Thomas Howell is not that good for this role. He can't hold the center and his role starts losing relevance in favor of Julian. The different clans are interesting although the show could probably use fewer of them. They really only need two plus the Nosferatu clan. The Nosferatu is weird enough to be worth the screen time. Eddie is a great villain which makes it a surprise that they write him off on episode six. It's a bad move. Overall, the vampire clan premise has some good potential but this show makes a few big mistakes. I don't know how much of a chance Fox gave it as a summer replacement show. I'm guessing not much.
Aaron Spelling is trying to do sexy vampires on Fox. This one fails but he tries again two years later with sexy witches. Charmed has many similarities with this show but a lot different. This is not fun and cheesy. It's overwrought and trying to be brooding. It doesn't have enough action. More than anything, C Thomas Howell is not that good for this role. He can't hold the center and his role starts losing relevance in favor of Julian. The different clans are interesting although the show could probably use fewer of them. They really only need two plus the Nosferatu clan. The Nosferatu is weird enough to be worth the screen time. Eddie is a great villain which makes it a surprise that they write him off on episode six. It's a bad move. Overall, the vampire clan premise has some good potential but this show makes a few big mistakes. I don't know how much of a chance Fox gave it as a summer replacement show. I'm guessing not much.
Best TV show of vampires
zidles2 May 2017
This was the best series ever of vampires, no shinny crappy vampires who fall pregnant etc. The best universe to show the intricacy of the vampires clans, plots, vengeance etc.
Would be nice to have another of this with the Trilogy of the Red Death, that would be so cool and so much content to play with, it would be awesome to watch on the screen, make it happen please
Would be nice to have another of this with the Trilogy of the Red Death, that would be so cool and so much content to play with, it would be awesome to watch on the screen, make it happen please
First try, mediocre try
UnknownDoomer26 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I'm not a particular fan of vampire themes in general, but I've watched some things, plus I've completed VTMB two times at the time of writing this review. Therefore my review will be from the perspective of an outside observer, without any degree of fandom or romanticized overtones.
Overall a rather mediocre series that would have long been lost in the mass of the same kind of criminal-mystical creations on secondary television channels, if not for one single BUT, because of which to this day people remember it and watch it - a board game, formed the basis.
The other day wandering around in the depths of the "VKontakte" fan group dedicated to the game "Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines", I came across an old post mentioning this series. I decided to take a look.
What do we have as a starting point?
At the time of its release, 1996, there was already a board game (1991 - present), there was already "Dracula" (1992), but the vampire theme had not yet been particularly mainstream in the mass consciousness ("Blade" (1998), "Another World" (2003) and further). Also there were no famous rpg / action games on the relevant topic ("Castlevania" doesn't count), and I think only a few people knew about the board game itself (as they still do today). In this regard an experiment in a fairly accurate transfer of game aspects looks not only interesting, but also a rare phenomenon in general, especially considering that it did not rely on any potential wide audience in advance, as was the case, for example, with "Mortal Kombat: Conquest" ( 1998 - 1999).
True to spirit.
In general, as the plot progresses, the main canons are mentioned, although, often, there are sometimes free handling and discrepancies with them. Specifics of clans. A vampire prince, the head of a certain city, monitoring the observance of the masquerade and regulating any clashes that arise. Historical conflicts between different clans. Specifics of turning into vampires. Humanity and spiritual impulses. Occasionally a demonstration of certain abilities of individual representatives, such as the swiftness of toareadors, which causes bewilderment among some mere mortals as to how they appear and disappear so quickly.
Clans.
Vampire clans are represented by 6 out of 13 possible:
1. Bruja / Bruja, they are local anarchists who do not shy away from regular criminal showdowns, most of which the series is dedicated to.
2. Ventrue, cold-blooded individuals with a desire for top management and regular management, are represented in the amount of 2 pieces.
3. Gangrel, which according to the canon are tramps and unsociable, which is not so much in the series, just one. They can turn into an animal form, but here almost everyone does it, regardless of clan affiliation (which, without some radical amendments, is in complete dissonance with the original source, as far as I know).
4. Nosferatu, a distinctive feature in the series, are designated only as creepy-looking vampires without any special characteristics or explanation as to why they are such.
5. Toreador, initially hedonists and artists in the broad sense of the word, with a greater bias towards the understanding of mere mortals. In the series there are mainly purely female attractive individuals, aka beauty, which is designated as the main characteristic.
The clans of "Malkavians" and "Tremere", despite the fact that they could be of perhaps the greatest interest in adaptation, are absent as a phenomenon in the series. I believe there is no way to explain this other than the budget, and perhaps also the fact that the series ended after eight episodes of season one.
6. But there was room for one "Assamite". In one episode. In short they are hired killers who achieve their goals by any means necessary.
Ending.
The series has no logical conclusion, the plot ends at episode eight. Apparently season one should have ended there, but the second never happened.
As a result:
2 points for trying to bring an interesting concept to the television screen; 1 point for the fact that such an attempt was made back in 1996; 1 point for general compliance with canon.
And - 0.5 for various flaws. Every second person here can turn into a wolf. The "Ventrue" prince is forced to resolve conflicts that arise more or less alone. "Gangrel", who was hired specifically as a bodyguard, presumably based on the logic of clan affiliation, turns out to be good for nothing according to the plot outline. It seems that if you drink a lot of blood, you can completely walk around in the light of day. In the next shot we have one character melting in the sun. If you want, I think you can still find quite a few strange jambs.
1 point for cute female characters. As for the male ones, the local "Ventrue" prince is somewhat reminiscent of the local version of "Highlander" (1992-1998). And the actor who played the head of the "Brujah" clan looks like the antagonist from "Highlander" circa 1986.
0.5 as a conditional fan bonus.
You can watch it in passing, but it's better to get yourself a copy of the game "Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines", patch+, a number of mods and plunge into the "world of darkness" for 40+ hours. Some fans of the genre might give it a 6 or even a 7, but I, as I already mentioned initially, am not one of them.
Also. By now there are few more games in"world of darkness" available to play, among them there is a direct sequel to VTMB is still in work.
Overall a rather mediocre series that would have long been lost in the mass of the same kind of criminal-mystical creations on secondary television channels, if not for one single BUT, because of which to this day people remember it and watch it - a board game, formed the basis.
The other day wandering around in the depths of the "VKontakte" fan group dedicated to the game "Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines", I came across an old post mentioning this series. I decided to take a look.
What do we have as a starting point?
At the time of its release, 1996, there was already a board game (1991 - present), there was already "Dracula" (1992), but the vampire theme had not yet been particularly mainstream in the mass consciousness ("Blade" (1998), "Another World" (2003) and further). Also there were no famous rpg / action games on the relevant topic ("Castlevania" doesn't count), and I think only a few people knew about the board game itself (as they still do today). In this regard an experiment in a fairly accurate transfer of game aspects looks not only interesting, but also a rare phenomenon in general, especially considering that it did not rely on any potential wide audience in advance, as was the case, for example, with "Mortal Kombat: Conquest" ( 1998 - 1999).
True to spirit.
In general, as the plot progresses, the main canons are mentioned, although, often, there are sometimes free handling and discrepancies with them. Specifics of clans. A vampire prince, the head of a certain city, monitoring the observance of the masquerade and regulating any clashes that arise. Historical conflicts between different clans. Specifics of turning into vampires. Humanity and spiritual impulses. Occasionally a demonstration of certain abilities of individual representatives, such as the swiftness of toareadors, which causes bewilderment among some mere mortals as to how they appear and disappear so quickly.
Clans.
Vampire clans are represented by 6 out of 13 possible:
1. Bruja / Bruja, they are local anarchists who do not shy away from regular criminal showdowns, most of which the series is dedicated to.
2. Ventrue, cold-blooded individuals with a desire for top management and regular management, are represented in the amount of 2 pieces.
3. Gangrel, which according to the canon are tramps and unsociable, which is not so much in the series, just one. They can turn into an animal form, but here almost everyone does it, regardless of clan affiliation (which, without some radical amendments, is in complete dissonance with the original source, as far as I know).
4. Nosferatu, a distinctive feature in the series, are designated only as creepy-looking vampires without any special characteristics or explanation as to why they are such.
5. Toreador, initially hedonists and artists in the broad sense of the word, with a greater bias towards the understanding of mere mortals. In the series there are mainly purely female attractive individuals, aka beauty, which is designated as the main characteristic.
The clans of "Malkavians" and "Tremere", despite the fact that they could be of perhaps the greatest interest in adaptation, are absent as a phenomenon in the series. I believe there is no way to explain this other than the budget, and perhaps also the fact that the series ended after eight episodes of season one.
6. But there was room for one "Assamite". In one episode. In short they are hired killers who achieve their goals by any means necessary.
Ending.
The series has no logical conclusion, the plot ends at episode eight. Apparently season one should have ended there, but the second never happened.
As a result:
2 points for trying to bring an interesting concept to the television screen; 1 point for the fact that such an attempt was made back in 1996; 1 point for general compliance with canon.
And - 0.5 for various flaws. Every second person here can turn into a wolf. The "Ventrue" prince is forced to resolve conflicts that arise more or less alone. "Gangrel", who was hired specifically as a bodyguard, presumably based on the logic of clan affiliation, turns out to be good for nothing according to the plot outline. It seems that if you drink a lot of blood, you can completely walk around in the light of day. In the next shot we have one character melting in the sun. If you want, I think you can still find quite a few strange jambs.
1 point for cute female characters. As for the male ones, the local "Ventrue" prince is somewhat reminiscent of the local version of "Highlander" (1992-1998). And the actor who played the head of the "Brujah" clan looks like the antagonist from "Highlander" circa 1986.
0.5 as a conditional fan bonus.
You can watch it in passing, but it's better to get yourself a copy of the game "Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines", patch+, a number of mods and plunge into the "world of darkness" for 40+ hours. Some fans of the genre might give it a 6 or even a 7, but I, as I already mentioned initially, am not one of them.
Also. By now there are few more games in"world of darkness" available to play, among them there is a direct sequel to VTMB is still in work.
This was a good T.V. series...
lycan200523 October 2006
Warning: Spoilers
When I first saw this series I had to be around 14 or 15 years old. It was what got me into the whole White Wolf Role-playing game. It had a good storyline. C. Thomas Howell as the detective on the trail of his kindred lover's killer, Julian trying to keep control of his city, the Brujah trying to take over the city and dethrone him, and one of his human relatives being embraced by the Brujah. These are some of the underlying stories that made the series fun to watch. I was upset that it was taken off the air, but it ended too open ended with the death of Julian's Sire. Well, hopefully someone will resurrect this oldy but goody. Thanks for listening to my comment.
Enjoyed this more than I thought I would...
m-4782617 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
It was definitely trying to capitalize on « interviews with a vampire » popularity. Even though it was inspired by its own set of books. And I think it was the main reason, such big names decided to produce it. It's my first time watching the series, and it is so good. Only too short to really have an opinion on it, hence the average rating. People tend to forget how corny the early episodes of Buffy were, and it's exactly the kind of charming corniness I found in this show's pilot. With the rough acting, script and editing. But by the end of it, I was hooked. Maybe the show suffered from being produced by Aaron Spelling, but nobody can deny it inspired popular fantasy series like Buffy/Angel, Charmed, The Vampire Diaries, and that short lived UPN show, Wolf Lake. To me, it was bound to succeed over the years. Unfortunately, the death of that crazy good looking lead, sealed the show's fate. So the cancellation was unavoidable. Everything about this show was spot on, for a good 90s vampire series. And I can't believe Kelly Rutherford's next role on Melrose Place. After the « Lois Lane » type character she's got there. I can only suggest this to fans of shows mentioned before, as it's a true finding to fantasy drama lovers.
One of the few Vampire stories I can watch..and like.
c_pendragon8 September 2000
I am not a big fan of vampire stories but I really enjoyed The Kindred and it showed the clashes with the different vampire clans. I thought it had interesting stories and not just a lot of fangs. C Thomas Howell investigates unusual happenings not knowing that there are vampires.
You even liked some of the vampires! It had a lot of atmosphere and I was disappointed when it was cancelled. I would recommend it!
You even liked some of the vampires! It had a lot of atmosphere and I was disappointed when it was cancelled. I would recommend it!
A slick vampire series
rob_h4 February 2001
OK, maybe C. Thomas Howell is a little melodramatic, but this series was a good and (generally) well-acted modern vampire tale. I wasn't watching television, I guess, when it originally aired. But I rented it a couple of years ago and enjoyed it so much that I bought it on DVD a short time ago. The set has two DVDs and is in 5.1--pretty stripped down in terms of extras (i.e., there aren't any). Still, it's worth a look. Mark Frankel and Patrick Bauchau are excellent in their roles.
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