Blade is a 1998 American superhero horror film directed by Stephen Norrington and written by David S. Goyer. Based on the Marvel Comics superhero of the same name, it is the first installment of the Blade franchise.

The film stars Wesley Snipes as the titular character with Stephen Dorff, Kris Kristofferson and N’Bushe Wright in supporting roles. In the film, Blade is a Dhampir, a human with vampire strengths but not their weaknesses, who together with his mentor Abraham Whistler and hematologist Karen Jenson, fights against vampires, namely the exceptionally vicious Deacon Frost.

Released on August 21, 1998, Blade was a commercial success, grossing $70 million at the U.S. box office, and $131.2 million worldwide. Despite mixed reviews from film critics, the film received a positive reception from audiences and has since garnered a cult following.

It is also hailed as one of Snipes’ signature roles. It was followed by two sequels, Blade II and Blade: Trinity, both written by Goyer who also directed the latter. Blade was a dark superhero film for its time. The success of Blade began Marvel’s film success and set the stage for further comic book film adaptations

“Blade (2024)” marks the much-anticipated return of the iconic vampire hunter to the big screen, with Mahershala Ali stepping into the role made famous by Wesley Snipes.

Directed by Yann Demange, the film brings a fresh take on the Marvel antihero, blending horror and superhero elements in a way that pays homage to the original while carving out its own unique space in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Mahershala Ali delivers a powerful performance as Blade, bringing a mix of intensity, charisma, and a deep sense of internal conflict to the character. His portrayal captures both the ferocity of a vampire hunter and the burden of his half-human, half-vampire nature. The supporting cast, including Aaron Pierre and Delroy Lindo, add depth to the story, each contributing to Blade’s complex world of shadows and blood.

The film’s tone is darker than most MCU entries, with a strong emphasis on horror and gothic aesthetics. The action sequences are sleek and brutal, reminiscent of the original “Blade” trilogy but with updated choreography and special effects that elevate the visceral experience. The film also explores themes of identity, legacy, and the moral ambiguity of Blade’s quest, making it more than just a typical action movie.

The film isn’t without its flaws. Some critics might argue that the pacing could be uneven, with certain scenes lingering too long while others feel rushed. Additionally, while the horror elements are effective, they may not fully satisfy fans looking for a more traditional superhero movie.

“Blade (2024)” successfully reintroduces the character to a new generation while staying true to the dark, gritty roots that made the original films a cult favorite. It’s a bold and exciting addition to the MCU, one that promises more supernatural adventures in the future.