"The Carmilla Movie" (2017) is a supernatural romance film directed by Spencer Maybee and based on the popular web series Carmilla, which itself is inspired by the 1872 gothic novella of the same name by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu. Starring Elise Bauman as Laura Hollis and Natasha Negovanlis as Carmilla Karnstein, the movie continues the beloved love story between a human journalist and a centuries-old vampire, blending horror, mystery, and romance in a compelling and thrilling narrative.
The story takes place five years after the events of the web series, with Laura and Carmilla now living a peaceful life in Toronto. Carmilla has miraculously regained her humanity, and the two are happily adjusting to normal life. However, their happiness is disrupted when Carmilla begins exhibiting strange symptoms—hallucinations, cravings, and hints of her former vampiric nature returning. At the same time, mysterious supernatural events occur at Silas University, their old home, indicating that an ancient and dangerous force is at play.
Determined to solve the mystery, Laura and Carmilla reunite with their friends LaFontaine (Kaitlyn Alexander), Perry (Annie Briggs), and Mel (Nicole Stamp) to investigate the eerie happenings at Silas. As they uncover the truth, they realize that a powerful and vengeful spirit from Carmilla’s past may be trying to reclaim her. This forces Carmilla to confront her own dark history, bringing new challenges to her relationship with Laura.
One of the most captivating aspects of The Carmilla Movie is the strong chemistry between Elise Bauman and Natasha Negovanlis. Their on-screen romance is both heartfelt and dynamic, making their characters' love story feel real and deeply emotional. The movie beautifully explores the challenges of maintaining a relationship when faced with supernatural dangers and the weight of past mistakes.
The film also stands out with its gothic horror atmosphere, filled with eerie visuals, haunting settings, and suspenseful moments. While the web series relied on a minimalistic, vlog-style format, the movie expands the world of Carmilla with cinematic visuals, giving fans a richer and more immersive experience. The mix of romance, mystery, and supernatural horror keeps the audience engaged throughout.
In addition to its thrilling plot, The Carmilla Movie continues to celebrate LGBTQ+ representation in media. Laura and Carmilla’s relationship is portrayed with depth and sincerity, making them one of the most beloved queer couples in modern supernatural fiction. The film embraces diversity and representation while delivering an exciting and emotional story.
The humor and witty dialogue, which were signature elements of the web series, remain a key part of the movie. The interactions between the characters bring a sense of fun and lightheartedness, balancing the darker elements of the story. LaFontaine’s scientific curiosity, Perry’s skepticism, and Mel’s tough attitude add to the film’s charm, making the group dynamic feel just as strong as in the original series.
In conclusion, The Carmilla Movie (2017) is a thrilling, romantic, and visually captivating continuation of the beloved web series. With an engaging mystery, a heartfelt love story, and an eerie gothic setting, the film successfully delivers both nostalgia and new excitement for fans. Whether you're a longtime follower of Carmilla or new to the story, this movie is a must-watch for lovers of supernatural romance and LGBTQ+ storytelling.
