Ep. 341: The Vampire Lestat (Episodes 1-3)

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Claire and Gavia break down the first three episodes of The Vampire Lestat, discussing the show's drastic tonal shift, its elaborate narrative structure, its bold exploration of abusive relationships - and much, much more. Adapting the iconic novel by Anne Rice, this season focuses more on Lestat's music career than on his historical backstory, reaffirming Interview with the Vampire's place among the best TV dramas of the decade.

Functioning as the third season of IWTV, The Vampire Lestat switches perspectives as it follows Lestat (Sam Reid) on his new career as a rock star. With Daniel Molloy (Eric Bogosian) still acting as interviewer, the narrative switches back and forth between Lestat’s chaotic 2025 tour (complete with original music by Daniel Hart) and Lestat’s backstory, delving into his origins as a vampire, and his complicated relationship with his mother Gabriella (Jennifer Ehle).

Links:

Gavia’s The Vampire Lestat recaps at Fansplaining

"Only Fangs: Daniel Hart on Writing the Music for The Vampire Lestat," Claire Biddles, The Quietus

"Music makes The Vampire Lestat a god—and more human," Gavia Baker-Whitelaw, A.V. Club

"The Vampire Lestat's Damien Atkins Discusses Magnus' Disturbing Role in Episode 3," Gavia Baker-Whitelaw, TV Guide

Previous episodes: Interview with the Vampire season 2, Heated Rivalry, Velvet Goldmine, Interview with the Vampire (1994)