Part drama, part horror, but mostly romance, Let the Right One In is the most unlikely and brilliantly-fused blend of genres I’ve ever seen.  As a matter of fact, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a horror romance.

Swedish director Tomas Alfredson brings an authenticity to all three genres that steers the story brilliantly.  His romantic scenes are as poignant as his horror scenes are creepy.  He takes his time with the story, doesn’t intrude, doesn’t draw attention to himself.

Hoyte Van Hoytema’s cinematography is equally subtle.  Despite some of the hardest shooting conditions one can imagine (in he snow in broad daylight and night), not a single shot over- or under-exposed, just the right amount of light and shadow.  Johan Söderqvist also stands out; his score is a veritable character within the film.

Lina Leandersson and Kåre Hedebrant are absolutely brilliant as Eli and Oskar, the film’s two (child) leads.  Oskar is so believably awkward, so vulnerable - so much going on behind his pale eyes and white-blonde hair.  Eli is at once sympathetic, her psychology and long-life wisdom apparent by mere bats of Leandersson’s huge green eyes.

In a time where horror as a genre has become torture porn, it’s refreshing to see such innovation as this.  Three cheers to all involved in the making of this truly unique film!