Drained (2024) is a British vampire romance film co-directed by Sean Cronin and Peter Stylianou. The story follows Thomas (Ruaridh Aldington), an unemployed concept artist living with his mother in London. Thomas’s mundane life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Rhea (Madalina Bellariu Ion), an enigmatic and alluring woman who captivates him. As their relationship deepens, Thomas discovers that Rhea is a vampire, leading him into a tumultuous and consuming affair.
Their intense bond spirals into a codependent dynamic, with Thomas willingly offering himself to satiate Rhea’s thirst. This self-destructive path causes Thomas’s health to deteriorate, blurring the lines between love and addiction. The film delves into themes of obsession, the intoxicating nature of toxic relationships, and the lengths one might go to feel needed. Set against the neon-lit backdrop of London, “Drained” offers a dark and sophisticated exploration of romance intertwined with horror.
