True Blood

Truly so good! Some characters are better than others - some become exceedingly annoying at times. But the concept of the show is brilliant and the creepy context, the hillbilly accents, the incestuous nature of such a small town; compounded they create a general feel that often leaves your skin crawling. Alan Ball is a genius and creates these kinds of moods so flawlessly. You need only watch the opening credits (long but exceptional) to understand what I mean. Oh to hear Bill the vampire say the name "Sookie" in his deep, steadfast yet slightly drawling voice - deathly serious (literally; he IS a vamp, after all) but slightly funny at the same time. Fans of Six Feet Under have probably already checked out True Blood, though the storyline and characters aren't nearly as relatable as those in Six Feet. Try it on for size, like those plastic fangs you bought at a costume store for your 5th grade halloween costume...you just might like it!

My friend Yael made an excellent point - I neglected to mention that the relationship between the humans and vampires in True Blood mirrors and speaks to race relations and discrimination in the United States (and worldwide). Tara, one of few African Americans living in Bon Temps, constantly and antagonistically plays the race card at various points of the season, neglecting to realize the hypocrisy of her own discrimination against vampires. Sam Merlotte also mistreats the vampires despite a very intriguing secret of his own (watch to find out!!)

On a side note, the new South Park speaks to our current interest in vampires (Twilight, True Blood, etc.). It's hilarious, as usual. Check it out!