Let the Right One In

Synopsis

A bleak, cold, suburban town 

Oskar, a lonely and tormented teenager, finds solace in the enigmatic and otherworldly Eli, a new neighbour with a dark secret. As they forge an unbreakable bond amidst the bleak backdrop of their suburban town, Oskar discovers Eli’s true identity as a vampire, forever trapped in a child’s body. The sinister presence of Hakan, Eli’s caretaker who procures blood to sustain her, adds a layer of danger and suspense. Oskar’s journey from a fearful, bullied boy to a courageous and protective friend is marked by intense confrontations, both with his tormentors and with the harrowing reality of Eli’s existence. Their relationship, tender yet fraught with peril, culminates in a gripping climax that blurs the lines between humanity and monstrosity.

The play masterfully weaves themes of isolation, friendship, violence, and innocence through its haunting and evocative narrative. The tone oscillates between tender moments of connection and the raw brutality of survival, creating a gripping emotional landscape. The style is stark and minimalist, allowing the powerful performances and chilling story to take centre stage. This linear, episodic narrative, rich in gothic elements, uses a cold, desolate setting to amplify the sense of dread and loneliness. The adaptation by Jack Thorne retains the eerie and melancholic essence of the original story, offering a profound exploration of the complexities of adolescence and the dark allure of the supernatural.