A Return to Salem's Lot (1987)

Title: A Return to Salem's Lot
"A Return to Salem's Lot" is a 1987 American comedy horror film directed by Larry Cohen. The film, as a loose sequel to the 1979 miniseries "Salem's Lot", attempts to weave a brand-new tale with a fresh set of characters, various from its predecessor.

Plot Summary
The story begins with Joe Weber, an anthropologist and his erstwhile troublesome teenage child, Jeremy. After a job in Belize, Joe chooses to pay a visit to his late aunt's home in Salem's Lot, a relatively quaint town in New England. Unbeknownst to them, the town is occupied by vampires.

Upon landing in Salem's Lot, they meet the town's inhabitants who invite them to remain - an invitation which they eventually realize they can not decline. The town's residents are found to be an advanced group of vampires who live on controlled blood contributions, and no longer kill for sustenance. The group desires Joe to record their history and transformation into serene animals.

Major Themes
Masquerading as a common horror movie, the film explores styles of human morals, justice, and the struggle against the indefensible. It portrays Joe's fight to get away the town and protect Jeremy who ends up being entranced with the vampires.

Characters and Performances
Michael Moriarty, who plays the estranged daddy and lead character, Joe Weber, delivers a performance that is equal parts irritating and captivating. He clearly represents his character's dilemma in between his duties as a dad and his anthropological interest. Ricky Addison Reed plays Jeremy Weber, a defiant teenager who ends up being interested with the vampire way of life. Tara Reid features in an early role as a young town local.

Important Reception
"A Return to Salem's Lot" was consulted with a total lukewarm reception from critics. While some mentioned the movie's divergence from the source product as a low point, others saw its special twists and haunting background as a fresh take on vampire tradition. Many critiqued the storyline as spread and underdeveloped, yet Cohen's knack for constructing suspense and maintaining an appropriately spooky environment was appreciated.

Conclusion
In conclusion, "A Return to Salem's Lot" provides a distinct mix of comedic and scary aspects, developing an environment that teeters between frightful and amusing. This movie provides a distinct interpretation of the vampire genre, underpinned by the perilous terror that swallows up an apparently picturesque town. Despite polarizing reviews, the movie remains a notable addition to Larry Cohen's filmography, and an intriguing review for the followers of the Salem's Lot legend.

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