Seems he's contracted a strange virus that appears to be aging his preternatural good looks. Where would he pick up such a nasty bug? Can't a vampire get a break?

No matter. Not one to mourn for long, Denueve turns to inquisitive research scientist Sarah Roberts (Sarandon) for immortal comfort (and so plays out one of the sexiest lesbian scenes in horror cinema).

But if Sarah succumbs to Miriam's netherworldly charms - and they are substantial - will she likewise fall prey to the same horrible malady that afflicted John?

Buoyed by sumptuous photography, a hip score (highlighted by Bowie glam friend and Bauhaus leader Peter Murphy), spotted by bisexual overtones, this modern gothic vamp flick is a good watch and a more than welcome addition to the vampire canon.

It's slick, and overly arty at times. But just when the mood and ambience begins to become pendulous, director Scott punctuates the action with a gory murder, a haunting vision...or a gooey bite.

Enough good things going for it to be a winner.