Right One, baby

Not only was Swedish horror film Let the Right One In a surprise success internationally, it was also one of the best cinematic imports to the U.S. of any genre in 2008. That’s because of its brave new take on the vampire motif. Lead character Oscar is the scrawny school loser, picked on and bullied daily. But when he falls in love with the new girl next door, it’s not long before he realizes she’s not that new. She’s more than 200 years old. As these unlikely lovebirds form an unlikely relationship, Let the Right One In quietly examines not only bizarre vampire violence, but also the emotional violence of adolescence, proving that both can be equally graphic. Rated R.