Vampire stories are older than cinema itself, with origins dating back thousands of years in ancient mythologies and folklore. These bloodthirsty creatures of the night have captivated audiences, inspiring some of the most iconic and enduring films in cinematic history.

From the early silent films to modern blockbusters, vampires have been a staple of cinema, allowing filmmakers to explore themes of immortality, morality, and the human condition. With their mesmerizing powers of seduction and supernatural abilities, vampires have become a compelling subject for many moviegoers.

Here's a list of the 22 best vampire movies that have left an indelible mark on the genre, from the horror-comedy of 'The Lost Boys' to the Gothic romance of 'Bram Stoker's Dracula.'

'The Lost Boys' (1987) - Directed by Joel Schumacher, this cult classic combines horror and comedy, following two brothers as they battle a gang of vampires in California.

'Bram Stoker's Dracula' (1992) - Francis Ford Coppola's adaptation of the classic novel, starring Gary Oldman as the iconic Count Dracula, is a masterpiece of atmospheric horror and cinematic storytelling.

'What We Do in the Shadows' (2014) - This hilarious mockumentary, directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, follows a group of vampires living in modern-day Wellington, New Zealand.

'Thirst' (2009) - Park Chan-wook's critically acclaimed film tells the story of a priest who becomes a vampire after a failed experiment, exploring themes of morality and redemption.

'Nosferatu' (1922) - This German silent film, directed by F.W. Murnau, is an unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker's novel, with the names changed to avoid copyright infringement.

'Dracula' (1931) - The first talking picture adaptation of Bram Stoker's novel, starring Bela Lugosi as the iconic Count Dracula, set the standard for future vampire films.

'Let the Right One In' (2008) - This Swedish horror film, directed by Tomas Alfredson, tells the story of a young boy who befriends a vampire girl, exploring themes of isolation and adolescence.

'Byzantium' (2012) - Neil Jordan's film follows two female vampires through the centuries, exploring themes of immortality and the struggles of being a female vampire in a patriarchal society.

'Stake Land' (2010) - This post-apocalyptic vampire film, directed by Jim Mickle, follows a young man and a grizzled vampire hunter as they travel across a vampire-infested America.

'30 Days of Night' (2007) - Based on the comic book series, this film follows a group of vampires as they attack an Alaskan town during the month-long polar night.

'Interview with the Vampire' (1994) - Neil Jordan's adaptation of Anne Rice's novel, starring Tom Cruise as the vampire Lestat, explores the complexities of vampire existence.

'Only Lovers Left Alive' (2013) - Jim Jarmusch's critically acclaimed film follows two vampires, played by Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston, as they struggle with their immortal lives.

'The Addiction' (1995) - Abel Ferrara's film follows a philosophy professor turned vampire as she navigates the streets of New York City.

'Near Dark' (1987) - Kathryn Bigelow's film follows a young man who is bitten by a vampire and must choose between his mortal life and his newfound immortal existence.

'The Hunger' (1983) - Tony Scott's film follows a love triangle between a vampire and two mortals, exploring themes of desire and mortality.

'Fright Night' (1985) - Tom Holland's film follows a teenager as he discovers that his neighbor is a vampire.

'Ganja & Hess' (1973) - Bill Gunn's film follows a doctor who becomes a vampire after being stabbed with an ancient dagger.

'Martin' (1977) - George A. Romero's film follows a young man who believes he is a vampire, exploring themes of delusion and reality.

'A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night' (2014) - Ana Lily Amirpour's critically acclaimed film follows a vampire as she preys on unsavory characters in a ghost town.

'Cronos' (1993) - Guillermo del Toro's film follows an antique dealer who discovers a mysterious device that grants eternal life.

'Kiss of the Damned' (2012) - Xan Cassavetes' film follows two vampire sisters as they struggle with their immortal lives.

These iconic films have cemented vampires as a staple of cinematic history, captivating audiences with their immortal allure and supernatural powers. Whether you're a fan of horror, comedy, or romance, there's a vampire film out there for everyone.

So, sink your fangs into these immortal classics and discover the eternal appeal of the vampire genre.