This page is dedicated to what you would like to see happen in this movie!!!

I created this section to give fans of Anne Rice's works an opportunity to freely express their opinions about how they think this film should be produced. Listed below are 22 entries which include opinions concerning questions like: What are your ideas and opinions about the script? What characters would you choose to include, and which ones would you regrettably leave out, and why? What do you think are the most important aspects in books 'The Vampire Lestat' and 'Queen of the Damned'? Which details do you think are most pivotal to the movie as a whole?

We must remember that the film cannot possibly include everything. We must accept the fact that this movie is merely an interpretation of the novels - they will not be exactly the same. In fact, the film and novels will be very different. They are two separate mediums. The books contain exquisite detail that a two-hour film cannot possibly reproduce. It is inevitable that some characters will be cut and many alterations will be made. Nevertheless, I thought it would be fun to allow fans to speculate about what they would have liked to have seen in the movie. Here people make insightful suggestions about what they think will make an effective cinematic interpretation...

Please note that the creator of this site does not endorse all opinions posted on this page. As explained above, this section is dedicated to what other fans think of the film. My personal opinions concerning the film can be found over at 'My Opinions' page.

1.

By Jennifer Hoover

New plot Synopsis of "The Queen Of the Damned"

*As a fellow fan of the Vampire Chronicles (perhaps too much of a fan), I too was surprised at the lack of loyalty the new movie is to the book. As it has come to all of our understanding, the writers have integrated The Vampire Lestat to give a little bit of background information. Being as disappointed as I was upon hearing of several devastating script changes, I have devised an alternate, one might say, to the script we fans know of (and I thank Vampvan for finding and getting it; cheers to you dearie!). The way I have written it is in a simple listing of events with minor changes or alterations added. If the writers fell that they cannot mesh both stories into one, take a look at this. I hope you will agree with me that my version is accurate to the novel. However, please keep in mind that some events have been shortened or even cut (along with some characters) to try to keep the length short. It is vital because with out a few cuts, we would have a movie that would rival in length to "Titanic", "Gone With the Wind", and "The Ten Commandments" combined. *

The Vampire Lestat

                    ~ wolves (cutting the dogs)

                    ~ "meeting" with Mother about her dying; send him to Paris

• no Nicki

• few sporadic shots of Renaud’s theatre

• Lestat’s transformation

~ Few clips of Lestat as a vampire in Paris

~ turn Mother (or should I say Gabrielle) into a vampire

~ within a night or two of Gabrielle’s transformation, meet w/ Armand; tells Lestat to look of Marius

~ Leave for Egypt; Gabrielle and Lestat part

~ Lestat finds Marius

-meet and wake Akasha and Enkil

~ go to New Orleans (we know what happens there)

• go into ground

• Satan’s Night Out

The Queen of the Damned

                    ~ little bit of the concert (enough for the audience to get the idea

• Gabrielle save Lestat and Louis; car wreck

~ Akasha takes Lestat

• my "vision" (to sound like a director) is that we wouldn’t follow Akasha and Lestat on their man-killing voyage

~ The Gathering of Immortals; flashbacks with Mekare, Maharet, Khyaman, Amel, and all that jazz

~ Akasha and Lestat show up at the Gathering

~ Mekare shows up and becomes the new Queen of the Damned

While writing and thinking this through, I have also thought of others ways to shorten the above as well. The movie could start off with Lestat as a vampire in Paris. He tells this to the audience in a voiceover (bear in mind, I am not a writer, but this is just an idea)

"Looking at the world without a human’s eyes can be glorifying; vampire’s see beauty everywhere and in everything. The world I see now is different than it was a year ago. Street lamps and the moon now only illuminate it; she is my only friend now. But I was not always this way. I grew up in a small village in the Auvergene in France. I was the hunter and after I killed a pack of wolves, that almost killed me, my mother made a wish to see me in Paris; to have more opportunities to be on stage than I would have at home. She wanted to see one of us happy before she died. But I was the one to die first. I kept seeing a face in the audience, that face belonged to a vampire who transformed me before he leapt into a pyre and leaving me to my wits."

Something to that effect would bring the first 50 to 60 pages into a few minutes on the movie screen. Other changes could be that Armand still haunts Lestat and Gabrielle with the presence, but alone and without the other vampires at Les Innocence.

If any important movie writers, executives, or anyone who has affiliation with Warner Brothers sees this, please, take it into consideration. I, like my fellow fans, want to see the movie do justice to the book. A new cult classic series is at your feet.

"Gabrielle"

**Special thanks go out to Jennifer Hoover for giving me the idea for this page in the first place!**

2.

By Punkybrewsta

If it were my decision, I would stay very close to the book. The plot would focus on the visions of Mekare and Maharet, and would of course include the story of the beginning. The film would also spend a good deal of time on Lestat (he always wants to be in the spotlight), his band, and Akasha's plan for a Utopian world. In case you're wondering, I would also iclude the kiss between Louis and Lestat (I think we all want to see that on the big screen) and the relationship between Daniel and Armand. These scenes are very important for one to understand the characters. Lestat, Satan's Night Out, Louis, Gabrielle, Akasha, Enkil, Marius, Mekare, Maharet, Daniel, Armand, Khayman, Baby Jenks, and Laurent would all be included in the film. Jesse, David Talbot, and Pandora would not. I love these characters, but I just don't think they play an important role in this story. Well, that about sums it up. Thanks for reading my thoughts.

3.

By Erika

I am a enormous fan of Queen of the Damned. I am very upset at the Armand image. Also wiith the Pandora image. I am upset to find that Daniel is not featured. He is in a good part of the book with his relationship with Armand. Well my suggestions are to stay more true to the book. So many people love the book you can't go wrong by sticking with it.

1. Daniel and Armand's relationship is important. It needs to be used. Armand is definatly not at ALL bratty. He is elegant and alert. Antonio played his personality well. Heath would be perfect.

2. Cut the Lestat romance with Jesse. If any Romance has to be exagerated let it be one hinted to in the book. Like Jesse in Maael maybe or Lestat and the Queen. I am not sure. I do know that Lestat only had breif meetings with Jesse. Here obsession with getting to the concert was that of finding more out about the family not a love interest with Lestat. People will get turned off fast.

3. Jesse is not a vampire hunter. They should play up a lot of scenes her involved in the history of the Twins and the Great family. that is a huge part of the intrigue of the book. Especially her summer at Sonoma.

4. Pandora is not at all bitchy either. They should not persue that idea.

5. I think they should focus on some of the important relationships in the book and link them together. I know they can not persue all of them but that's what makes the book.  Especially The Great family connection.

I am not too concerned with WHO plays the parts as long as they play it true to character. They have a great book. they should not rush through it just to make some money. This could be a great movie, like Interview was done well so can this. And Please do not make it into a teenie bopper movie. Young actors are fine but do not make this for adolescent minds. And a love fine if you have to but Please not Lestat and Jesse.
Thank You for letting me voice my thoughts

4.

By Krista Herrington

Queen of the Damned is my most favorite book of all time. I found out about the upcoming QofD movie in mid November of '99. I personally can't wait for this movie because it deals with the next part of the VC series on the big screen. I was really hoping for Book 2 to be made first before they start to go in Book 3. It will be confusing and Anne fans will not be pleased. Then I read the script review, I wasn't pleased. I was upset when the WHOLE QofD story being changed, and sounds too weird. Jesse and Lestat love story. Now that is funny. Jesse being 18? Isn't she 35 or something in the book? Jesse only encountered Lestat at the concert and the final showdown with Akasha. Another thing about Jesse, didn't she go to that New Orleans house and find Claudia's diary in the book? In the script, it was Lestat's.

In the script, there were other ridiculous changes. Marius making Lestat. Some characters deleted such as Baby Jenks, Louis, Eric, and Daniel. (thanks Van for giving me that info) And lets not forget about Maharet and Mekare. Their characteristics have been switched around. Mekare being the one pregnet? Now thats a piece of work right there. And lets not forget the main events that pissed me off. The writers removing parts of the story that deals with Miriam, the cannibalism, the funeral feast, M & M being witches, Khayman taking them or anything about demon/spirit Amel. That WAS the whole story right there. I found The Story of the Twins in QofD really interesting.

Akasha's character has also been changed. In the book, she wants to rule the world, distroy 99% of mankind, etc, etc. What I have read in the script review, she is blood thirsty? At the momment, I don't know what her main objective is. Akasha is my current favorite character in the whole book series, I just hope they make her character well.

The upcoming soundtrack of QotD should be really interesting. I am a huge fan of Korn, so I have no problem with the music!

As for my thoughts how the movie should be of the combining of the two novels, I would have to agree with Jennifer Hoover's idea. I just prey that this movie gets changed the way it should be. It will be disapointing if this is another "teeny" movie and it will be disappointing to Anne's fans. And most likely, Anne herself.

5.

By Crystal

My suggestion is to give the rights back to Anne Rice and let her write the script.  Then, we fans of the books know we'll be in for something remotely similar to the book, as opposed to some teeny-bopper smash hit that will send people who've read the books out of the theatre gagging. Is this another 'Exit to Eden'?

6.

By The Vampire Jean-Alain

We open with the final scene from the original film, with Lestat giving Malloy "the choice, I never had."  As this scene winds down the camera slowly pulls back to reveal that we are watching a film in a movie theater.  The camera then pans over the faces of various people in the audience.  Goths, "Vampires" and regularly dressed theater goers.

The camera continues back to the last row and we see, his feet propped up on the seat in front of him, smiling in obvious enjoyment at this "treatment", the vampire Lestat.

We then cut to the outside of the theater as patrons, Lestat among them, exit the theater, discussing what they've just seen.  The camera pans up to the marquee to reveal the words "from the bestselling novel, Interview with the Vampire"

For me, this accomplishes a few things.   It explains to viewers, who may be confused with the changes in all the lead actors, that this is just a filmed version of Louis' novel. ( and we all know if they DID film Louis' novel and Lestat found out about it, he'd be the first in line to see it! )   It therefore, seemlessly blends the two films together, introducing us to our new Lestat.  Lastly, it "explains away" the original ending on the bridge with Lestat biting Malloy.  we can then assume that it never really happened and was just a screenwriters imagination running wild.  Lestat can then be awakened from his "sleep" by the "sublime" music of satans night out and things can proceed from there.  All this would take up about four minutes screen time and   not only get us up to date, but clarify things for those who might be confused with all of the changes.

7.

By Charlotte

First off, I would like to say that to me, the whole concept of making this a 'teeny-bopper flick'is a mistake. Why do filmmakers do that?  The stories in both  The Vampire Lestat and Queen of the Damned are
immensely popular as they are; I see it as foolish to make unnecessary changes and alterations of storyline and characters.  I feel it is almost degrading to the books and the author to change her beautiful work into some piece of crap.  And who says teens can't appreciate a movie with a deeper message then the stereotypical teen flick of today.

Of course some scenes and character relationships must be drastically reduced or cut to make the movie in a set amount of time, that is understood. But Jessie and Lestat?  Their most likely motive behind that is that they think they need a romance to make the movie more attractive to more people, but, as I remember someone suggesting, why not just pursue some of the romances Anne herself wrote of in the book, such as Akasha and Lestat, or even Armand and Daniel?  One nice thing about the books is that there are many different forms of love; what about the love of Marius for Armand? For Lestat? Lestat and Gabrielle? Even Lestat and Louis?  Oh, I forgot, those are much to 'deep' and 'complicated' to deal with in a teen flick.

Speaking of Louis, I was very disappointed to find out he had been omitted altogether from the script. >-_-< I don't really mind as much about those such as Baby Jenks and Eric, but Louis plays much more of a role at the concert and such, plus he is just a veteran character that people would know even if they don't read the books. Same with Gabrielle.  In fact, she is very important in Lestat's life, so I don't see why they threw HER out, and not someone such as Mael, because it looks as if they are going to leave out the most important parts of the story that included Mael and Jesse anyway.  Even the act of making Jesse 18 is to me, just rather pointless. Perhaps they feel it will attract more teenagers if she's our age, like we could 'identify with her on some other level' or something..........(yeah..)

One last thing about the characters: changing Akasha to where she has no motive and is just another bloodthirsty, mindless villain is just horrible.  In the book she is supposed to be beautiful, intelligent, ambitious, just a little illusional that's all ^_^Akasha rivals Lestat as being the most important character in the story. It wouldn't be that hard for them to let her have her motive. All she has to do is have a little 30 second monologue explaining to Lestat what's up....I guess my main fear is that if they try to make this a teen flick, it's just going to end up being so stupid that no one will want to see it, fans of the chronicles or not. Anne Rice should have a hand in this I think. She had a hand in the script of "Interview With the Vampire", which stuck to the book very well, and look how popular it was with people of all ages, including us teens, and with people who had never read the books in their lives.

Another example is the recent "X-Men" movie.  I read many articles about how the makers of the film obsessed over details, because they were smart and knew that previous fans of the series were a big and important audience, but also designed the movie to appeal to other people without disappointing the hard-core fans, and managed to do a good job.  Now, if they can do it with "Interview", and they can do it with "X-Men", why not "Queen of the Damned?"  Think about it. Mr. Producer....
Sorry for making this so long, but I had a lot to say >^-^<
--Charlotte

P.S.  I personally think the scene where Jesse goes back to the flat in New Orleans that is "haunted" by Claudia, and finds Claudia's journal among other things, would be so cool...that was one of my favorite scenes.  And that little Lestat/Louis kiss as Punkybrewsta mentioned would be nice too ^^

8.

By Ravuun

Mostly, I think Lestat's early adventures & education need to be given their time on-screen. Otherwise, the uneducated part of the audience would lose the understanding of Lestat's character & motivations this provides, and continue to see him as Louis described him, which is not flattering, to say the least. I also hope they do a better job of casting Armand this time around--Antonio Banderas was a good, gothy vampire, but he looks NOTHING like Armand. In my opinion, the little human boy at the Theatre des Vampires was a MUCH closer match! I really like the idea of showing the end of Interview and having it pull back to show a movie theater setting, with Lestat watching the film. Not only is it a good segueway (sp), but it crosses the same line between reality and fiction that the Chronicles do. I still wish they were doing each novel as a movie in its own right, but I suppose I should be happy for what we do get.

9.

By DotE226

I think Vampire Jean-Alain's ideas for the opening scene are excellent, and I also liked Jennifer Hoover's suggestions. I sincerely hope they don't make this a teeny-bopper movie. If they do, I'll contact Lestat and have him tear out the director's throat. ( >; [ ) I object to the deletion of so many characters, especially mon chere Louis - he's my favorite. An onscreen kiss between Louis and Lestat would be wonderful, and they should leave in the reunion. I have to ask: just what were the writers on when they created the Jesse/Lestat romance? I mean, come on!! And Akasha should not be represented as the formulaic, bloodthirsty (no pun intended!!) psycho-bitch. If they don't go into Lestat's past in more detail, viewers who have never read the Chron. aren't going to understand him! Lestat's feelings for Akasha should be more openly expressed, and Armand and Daniel's relationship should be shown. Finally, ARMAND IS NOT A BRAT!!! I have never liked him, he is just too cruel and selfish, but I still think it would be an insult not to represent him properly. Now, I've finished my ranting, you can go about your business. ; [

10.

By The Vampire Gavinna

Oh, how I wish our dear Mistress Rice had done something in the terms of the script. What beautiful work was done in the first film shall not be done here? How disappointing. I feel a pain in my undead heart for this film as a whole. I am not saying that it may not be good. One can only know when it has been experienced. Many of the others here have spoken my views (Jennifer Hoover, Erika, Ravuun, and a few others.) I feel that this movie shall not show what we really are. Dark beauty, but rather animals with likenesses to wolves. (Well some of us are but not all. ) I feel it won't have the same night air to it and the same flavour as 'Interview with the Vampire' I do wonder now what our beloved Monseiur Lioncourt shall say about this. Will he like it? I know he very much was delighted with Tom Cruise prtraying him, but what about this Townsend will he do as lovely as a job? I'm glad to see Korn is making a contribution. I like those boys, (not something you would usually hear from a 2100 year old vampire ^_~* I'm a woman of the ages.)

11.

By MDaisy

Well for one? Who thinks Tom Cruise made a decent Lestat?? I did.. he was literally perfect..he had the attitude, the whiny voice, and some looks.. with pictures that I've seen of the new guy.. I think Lestat looks kinda cheesy. I believe they should do the movie exactly like the book for a change. Including all the other characters ( Armand:Antonio, Daniel: Christian Slater, ect.. ) I mean.. it would make it see more realistic.. Aaliyah ( Excuse the spelling ) I tihnk should make a good Akasha.. that is if her wardrobe and make up's done right.. but I dunno.. I liked my Flawless four in that movie, Tommy, Antonio, Christian, and yes.. Brad.. Speaking of Brad..Any chance of him returning? And any news on who the other characters are? Anyone think Salma Hayek could made a great Akasha? I do! She's dark skinned..dark hair and eyes.. VaVoom! Well anyways.. someone respond this? Email me at MDaisy123@aol.com. Give me your opinions!
(Or post it on the page! )

12.

By Gina Zuliani

Ok....I will admit, I saw the movie "Interview with the Vampire" before I actually read the chronicals....so of course my first instinct was..."wow" they left allot out of the movie, however they captured the true meaning of the book. The characters Louis, and Lestat, were portrayed masterfully by " Tom Cruise" and "Brad Pitt" even though I agree with some others who left comments that "Antonio Banderas" wasn't quite the "picture perfect image of Armand"....he did however, I feel do perfect justice to his character. I guess all I can say is
that I too feel this to be the onset of a "teenage vampire flop" and a true disgrace to the wonderful chronicles Anne Rice has written. This will be an abomination of the meaning behind "Queen of the Damned" It is going to loose all its luster the characters in the first movie "Interview" gave to the movie. Their whole carriage and demeanor is going to be eliminated, and replaced with a stale version of John Carpenters "Vampires" only on a juvenile scale. Of Course it is too late to even try my suggestion for how to re-vamp "no pun intended" this movie...but if they could start over again, my all time suggestions would be a mini series....which would give the opportunity to capture every last IMPORTANT detail of the novel. And, if possible, keep the old characters the same. " Tom, Brad, Antonio, etc..." Although yes, a mini series would be costly, if they did it correctly, the money they would make would well be worth their effort.....i just hope that I and others arent disappointed to the degree of getting up in the middle of the movie and walking out....

13.

By Margareth

1. My, how I love The Vampire Jean-Alain's vision !! That movie theater, Lestat there... It would be really convincing to The Chronicles' fans, ( also to those who have seen Interview and would like to see Interview II, ha ha ).
2. As we can see everybody is mad about that Jessie-Lestat thing, as well as about others really important changes, so messieurs/mesdames makers THINK about it !! And DO something !! PLEASE !!
3. KoRn's Jon D will do a good job, I'm sure. ( Mr Manson would also do. )
4. The most important part of the book is the Story of Twins - witchcraft, spirits, funeral feast, and the Beginning - Amel !!, and it is all gone ?!!
5. Finally, I hope I won't runaway from the cinema or throw up or pass out or whatever.

14.

By Image

All the suggestions, for the most part, I have read here; I agree with. One thing that is being left out that concerns me are the changes that occur to the "vampire" once they are made. The fledgling and maker cannot read or hear each others thoughts anymore. That element was key to the story line. That separation created a "humanlike" quality as the characters morned the loss of connectiveness to each other. Pandora couldn't hear Marius, but knew he was in trouble. Akasha couldn't sense Khayman or Mekare because they were the "first brood." Mekare couldn't see or hear Maharet, etc. The "first brood" description WAS the true history of the vampires and could be quickly done in flashbacks and voiceovers. Especially the rape scene. That would show the relationship between Mekare and Akasha. I definetely agree about Jesse staying connected to Maharet NOT LESTAT! Lestat doesn't need a female lover in this movie other than Akasha. His character is reactive. He does not plan things very well. He is impulsive, inquisitive, and fearless. That's why we love him!

15.

By Nelly

I really liked Vampire Jean-Alain's version of the beginning of the movie should be. I think that would be too cool. That could really make up for the bar scenes I think the writers left out.

I also think that they should stay closer to the book than the script. I liked Interview with the Vampire. They left things out, but the movie still made sence. It also stayed wiht the main theme of the book.

If they do that with Queen of the Damned, I think it will be great. Not just some "teen flick." I'm a teenager and I don't think a relationship between Lestat and Jesse will attract viewers. I think it will just make it more confusing. Lestat talks to Jesse once in the book, just tells a back round of her life. I think it should stay like that.

The book is really a love affair for Lestat and Akasha. That really makes me mad that they try to change that. I think they're trying to say that he hardly loves her at all in the film.

As for the characters they took out, I think they can do without Eric, but need Gabrielle, Louie, Baby Jenks, Claudia, Magnus. They are all very important to the book. They really need Magnus. He shows why Lestat is the way he is.

I could talk all day about what I think is wrong with this movie, I really could. But I really think that the rights should go back to Anne Rice at once.

16.

By Lepidus113

I agree mostly with what everyone has been saying and I'm very surprised in the Lestat/Jesse relationship. It doesn't make any sense, the first time they meet Lestat kicks her in the head and almost kills her, if that's the beginning of a love story, then I'm living in the wrong era. There is this really deep bond between Maharet and Jesse, a mother-daughter bond, and I know that directors go for that kind of stuff, so why not use that, instead of ruining Lestat? I'm almost glad that Antonio isn't playing Armand because he was just too old, no offense, but Armand was a child, he was only 17!! And what is up with Marius making Lestat?!?! That is completely wrong!!! Magnus created him and that's how it should stay, it's surprisingly a vital part to his character, Magnus left him when he was first created and then made him spread his ashes, threatening him if he didn't and that definitely made Lestat stronger. For the viewers that haven't read the chron. I'm afraid that they are going to be really confused because Lestat seemed to have a great distaste for his maker in Interview, but in Queen of the Damned, Lestat respects and loves Marius, he is his immortal teacher....they shouldn't ruin that relationship either!! Lestat has always been searching for his "special" one and that's why he keeps screwing himself over, but he always loves his Louis, so to take him out of the script isn't logical. I think the director should really try and stay closer to the book, instead of warping it into some "teenie-bopper vamp. flick." The Chronicles are fans only solace from John Carpenter, Buffy, Blade, and Wes Craven, etc., our vampires seem real and they help us fight back the stereotypes, so to mess their image up is making the vampire race take a step back, instead of a step forward. Again, I think the love between Armand and Daniel should be shown and between Lestat and Akasha/Louis. As for the casting choices I'm very skeptical and very disappointed in the director for misshaping this fabulous book, I think he should read all of the books and be such an immense fan as us if he's going to do this movie. Neil Jordan tried to stay close to the book and look how well he did, I believe that should be noted and at least attempted before such vital characters are exempted and the plot is so disturbingly changed. What perplexes me the most is why they didn't make Lestat's autobiography. It probably would have been easier and harder to mess up, so then the director wouldn't have to worry about all these fans jumping down his throat, but truthfully, he should have thought about what a following these vampires have, and realized that if he changed too much, there would be a lot of really angry people and that's exactly what's happening and I think it's going to cost him in the end. This, being a cult movie it is only really going to have it's fan-base on the big screen, such as Highlander and X-Men, so it is less likely to remain in theaters for long, especially if it doesn't please the diehard fans, who are the only individuals that really care about seeing it in the first place. And if he simply kept closer to the story it wouldn't cost him any extra money in the end, in fact, it would probably bring in more money, it is really just a matter of respect. We understand that it can't be perfect and every detail can't be added, but for it to be changed so extremely is ridiculous. I apologize for my ranting, but thank you for putting up with it.

17.

By Clarissa

When I heard first rumours that filming has finally begun for the long expected sequel of the terrific IWTV I was electrified. I was overjoyed... but how can I describe my utter disappointment when I learned more about the cast! THAT CAN’T BE TRUE!!!

Well, I am ready to accept that is almost impossible to re-unite the outstanding actors of IWTV, but COME ON: Anne Rice’s vampires do not have to overwhelm their victims with violence or cruelty - they seduce them (and in fact us, too) with their glamorous lifestyle, their melancholy, and last but not least with their preternatural good looks! What of Lestat’s beauty and his outstanding star qualities can be found in Stuart Townsend?? Also the rest of the cast seems not very convincingly chosen: however, Antonio Banderas would also not have been my first choice for Armand. Nevertheless, he made a gorgeous vampire – so let’s hope for a miracle!!!

When I read the first sections of the script I thought it was actually done quite well. However, when it came to Jesse finding Lestat’s diary (instead of Claudia’s) combined with the flashback on Lestat’s making and the beginning love story between Lestat and Jesse I felt things were getting terribly wrong: If Marius is Lestat’s maker instead of Magnus that could mean that all the wonderful stories about Lestat’s killing of the wolves, his time as actor in Paris, about Armand and the Theatre des Vampires etc. can be left out.

And what about our beloved Louis? He may play a minor role in QOTD, but to leave him out almost altogether SIMPLY IS A CRIME: in that famous re-union scene with Lestat he is replaced by Marius (!!!) and I agree with all of you who wished to see a passionate kiss between Lestat and Louis. Vampires are not conventional characters so there is no need for making up a more or less conventional love relationship between Lestat and Jesse. Instead they should concentrate on those described in the book: Lestat-Akasha, Lestat-Louis, Daniel-Armand.

Summing up all this: Even if it’s not possible to tell all stories told in QotD and include all characters we have come to love PLEASE PLEASE TRY TO CATCH THE ATMOSPHERE AND THE MAIN THEMES OF QOFD AND KEEP CLOSER TO THE BOOK !!!

18.

By Vampire Chick

Ok, what is up with the whole Marius thing??? We all know WHO made Lestat! That's the whole reason he is the way he is! I heard a *rumour* that the first person to write the script had never even read the Chronicles! I liked the Lestat in the theater idea, the last movie ending made no sense, really. And what's with leaving out Louis?? Or Daniel??? These movie people have their heads in the clouds in my opinion! And Jesse & Lestat? 'Nuff said on that already. I kinda like the idea of skipping right to qofd, but only an Anne Rice fan or Anne Rice herself could pull it off properly. Were the original actors even asked to come back? That's what i would like to know. I loved Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, etc. Another thing i would like to know is would any1 really be opposed to a good 3-hour movie w/details? Or would they rather the life-less shell that seems to be surfacing? What's with M&M switing roles here? I think Hollywood has totally screwed up. Here's my suggestion: drop what you are doing & just gived the damned rights back 2 Anne! Sorry 4 my ranting, but these changes have me really upset. I will probably end up going to see it anyways & maybe even enjoying it as a second-rate movie, but i still think that Anne will have a conipsion & demand her rights back so she can repair the damage that will be done.

19.

By Seraph Princess

Maybe the movie won't be so bad.

I read every single book anne rice has made, to the point i am queen of her cult followng. i worship anne rice as a goddess. i read her books, i saw her movies... i roleplay.. to me.. from analyzing this website and all of her books..and kathrine ramsland's books ( and every single vampire book out there) .. the changes might not be so bad if they can do two things.. if they plan to use action sequenses in a book that is strictly written to enchant us (Goodess knows if i had the chance i'd be Marius) make the action sequenses (lack of a better word) enchanting. and if they do NOT bore us.

With x-men.. they kept to the story which is very important.. but what i remember before x-men was a huge hit.. a whole lot of people were not taken by the scenes until it actually hit theatres.. well this is what QOTD reminds me.. no one is real excited about cast choice nor the script changes but if the writer can not plague the story with weaknesses like a plot written for Buffy, Blade, etc.. just maybe we as a die-hard audience can at least leave the theatre saying " hey, not so bad". I'm hoping that they can at least give you characters that are unforgettable.. excellent cemetography/graphic design.. imagery to die for.. and a plot that you wish you would of wrote. here's my take on the plot.

I think that it's a disappointment that they're leaving out the minor characters being that the minor characters make the major characters. Baby jenks, Louis, Daniel, Gabrielle, Magnus, Eric, Nicholas, etc... They're major importance within the Vampire Lestat ( i don't have to tell most of the people on this website that) they make the character Lestat.. they give him that light in which we see him. But being that they are removed, fine. The major characters will have to find their own light, which might be difficult for the diehard fans to watch because they want to see them in the light their used to seeing them in. But being we know we won't see them in that light.. well, now we have to anticipate as to what comes.. and maybe.. if the people writing the script does surprise us with excellent action parts, a decent enough plot and of course characters to droll over.. we'll be a ok.

See what i mean. the imporant part is this.. being that they have swayed from the plot and plan on making this another Matrix and Charlies Angels.. They have got to grab the audience and claps their attention big time.. or a whole lot of people Rice fans or no will be very disappointed. Personally, i would do a little of both if i were writing the script. I would mix and match. I would have my sensual love tale and a little bit of wall climbing and face stomping here and there.

I don't like how their making a conventional love story myself based on the idea that Hollywood is homophobic and racist ( being that this Akasha is black.. which is not such a bad outlook i find that change beautiful) but, if they plan on making jesse and lestat lovers.. to at least make that somewhat interesting and not stereotypical gothic romance. To me, i wouldn't of mind seeing Lestat kiss Louis ( but i guess my imagination will due) It will be kind of strange that now Louis and Lestat will be kind of pushed off as " best friends". You take what you get. Personally, If i were writing the story.. i would have Louis and Lestat together.. then Akasha sweeps Lestat
off of his feet and have him torn between Akasha and Louis, then i would have Armand and Marius together but Marius torn between Pandora and Armand. and Santino obsessed with Marius ( this is what we see in Tale of the Body Theif) and Marius pushing him off. I would have a like " bro and sis" relationship between Lestat and Jesse and i would put in the plot where Khayman broke her neck because this is also crucial to make the part of Jesse. The whole Lestat/Claudia diary thing is a toss of the coin.. both believe it or not works for an effect of the haunted house. Jesse and the Talamasca.. i would kind of make her a "slayer/investigator" but not after Lestat in a harmful way.. in a nosy reporter way.. like the book

the whole vampire myth thing.. ok, no crosses, stakes, holywater PLEASE.. and sunlight.. maybe on the younger vampires.

Of course we need the meeting of the elders. we can't live without it

The whole Marius and Lestat thang..

I am a huge fan of the character Marius and this might sound like blasphemy but.. i don't mind the part where Marius is written as Lestat's maker so long as it doesn't take too much light from Armand. Marius is naturally his mentor.. Marius naturally helped him and taught him what he needed to know.. Therefore..it's not a bad change. Personally i thought Magnus was a boring character so it works for me. And it does give Marius " more light" i'm all for it.

This might also sound like Blasphemy but.. i like Buffy.. i'm a fan of bubble gum teenbop movies.. but you all are right.. enough IS enough. we don't need anne rice's precious novels to be made into a rip off of " I know what you did last summer"

I'm in college so i want to be a writer hopefully if they make another movie i will write the script and not dissapoint you fanatics but that's left to be seen.

20.

By Ginga

I have to say, I'm also pretty disappointed in what they've done to QOTD. The whole Jesse+Lestat thing is just...weird. They met only twice in the book, and never even had a real conversation, so how the movie people managed to make them a romantic couple is beyond me. And I'm pretty much horrified that they made Marius Lestat's maker. Sure, in the books they have sort of a father-son relationship of sorts, but it was MAGNUS, not Marius who gave Lestat the Dark Gift. And in the book, Akasha had actual motives and reasoning (even if it wasn't GOOD) about what she was doing. She wasn't just a bitch wanting world domination for no good reason. I love Jean-Alain's idea for the opening, I think that would be great. I can just picture Lestat sitting in a movie theater pigging out on popcorn. (Yes, I know vampires don't eat, but it makes for a funny mental image.) On a more positive note (hopefully) I'm not *incredibly* bothered by the casting. For the most part, they stuck to the character's appearances from the book. (Although I do have to say I'm perturbed that Lestat's hair is brown in the movie instead of blonde.) Stuart's smirk is very Lestat, in my opinion, and he sounds like a good actor from what I've heard. I'm sure that when the movie comes out, all of us will go and see it and come back fairly satisfied, despite the huge changes in the plot and characters. ^_~

21.

By The Vampire Chantal

I am anticipating the release of Queen of the Damned. But I am very  upset of one major thing...the actors in Interview with the Vampire, are what made the movie. No other thing, The plot was true to an extent, but if it was not for the actors looks, personality and what they had to offer to the characters, the movie would have been disasterous. I am mad and highly upset at the distaste of the casting people, to not have Lestat and Armand be played by Cruise and Antonio Banderas. The perfect person for those roles were those actors, and I am even considering not going to see the movie at all becuase of this fact. To have different actors in this movie is, ridiculous, and very...disrespectful to the Vampire Chronicle fans, or even just the fans of the movie IV. And the fact that Louis, who is one of my favorite, if not my very favorite, character is not in there at all angers me
to no point. But I suppose it is better, than having someone besides for Pitt play him anyway. I think the actors really portrayed our beloved characters the right way in IV, and I am not liking the fact that they have changed. I really like the book the Queen of the Damned, but it is not my favorite in the chronicles. (I am really taken back by The Vampire Armand and I love this book to death) But the point is that the producers should infact stay true to the characters and stay true to the plot. I understand not many people like the fact that Antonio Banderas was Armand. But he did make a great Armand. I must also admit, that I seen the movie when I was in third grade, there for I could not have read the books before I had seen the movie. So, becuase of
this fact, I forever picture Armand as Antonio, Louis as Brad Pitt, Lestat as Tom Cruise, and Daniel as Chrostian Slater. I have seen the movie Interview with the Vampire, atleast seventy times, if not more, and i kid you not, and i find nothing wrong with the way those actors I love, portrayed those characters I love. I do not think this movie will be a hit, or atleats not as good as it could be, becuase of the simple fact that they( the producer/s) want to fit two novels, or one and a half, in two hours of film. And THAT THEY HAVE KILLED THE WHOLE PLOT TO THE BOOK! I honestly think that it is a big mistake to take Mekare out of the movie. I am not sure how people will respond to this, and I am not sure how Rice will react. I wish she would have stepped in and said something about having Cruise and Pitt and Banderas in this film. And I wish she could step in and stop them from destroying this whole book.

Enough of my whining, here is my suggestioins for the movie:
1) Yes, Daneil and Armands relationship should stay in the movie. This is imporatnt to those of us who,like it, and simply because it was int he book to begin with.

2) Yes please do cut the Jesse and Lestat love crap. That is not the essence the book was given off at all! I think that the love should stay between Lestat and Akasha or whoever else, but not Jesse and Lestat. this is not a movie with a lovesick ahppy ending. Not by any means. And Louis and Lestat should have their kiss, but I would only want to see it, if our first actors were to be the ones kissing. I think this kiss should be in here, the movie that is, because modern minds are not open to the idea of men kissing other men, and they should not care about the stereotypes other people have in here mind, people who are into the book, want what is in the book.

3)MY SECOND BIGGEST AND MOST UPSETTING THING IS THAT YES....THE STORY WAS  TOTALLY DEPLETED!!!!! The twins not witches? marius making Lestat? The story of the twins is half the plot of Queen of the Damned, and look at it now! All reason in the movie is gone! The whole idea and vision Rice had for this book is totally wiped away by these money grubbing producers! I think they should
scrap what they have now, and go online, check out this site and listen to our damn opinions!!!! So what if they have to start over!?!!! Wouldn't they want to make more money, and please the die hard fans?!!! The whole vision of these vampires are, exquitse angels who are doomed to stay alive by taking life, or simply blood, from mortals. Not stupid love sick puppys who snap necks off humans in a crowded resturant, and walk out valantly proclaiming that they are monsters! This film is going to take away the grace and love for vampires that Rice has given me and other fans! Rice is the whole reason why I love vampires, and to take that away from the film, becuase I have heard, Akasha is just going to be a mindless zombie in the movie, is pointless! I am outraged!

MDaisy is absoultely right. When I first heard Aaliyah say at the VMAs that she was filming Qof the D, I cried. I litterally cried, thats how seriously offended and upset I was that she was to play Akasha. the only thing that keeps me in line with that thought is that her head gets torn off in the end. I think Selma Heyake is a possibility for Akasha, but what about Catherine zetta jones? She is a strong looking woman, and she does not posess by any means a weak aura to her, making her a good candidate for the role. And yes, those four famous loves of mine should all STAY in the movie, I mean if no one else, at LEAST Cruise as Lestat, right? Yay or Nay? I vote yes.

The Vampire Jean-Alain. This persons ideas for the movie is brilliant and i like this whole thing. Screw the old producers and such, we the fans should have league of the movies, and of course Rice should get the rights to the movies script. Those hollywood bastards are going to runi everything Rice has worked so hard on!

Seraph Princess. You know that I read it, I agree with this persons beleifs. I did think that Marius should have made Lestat when i first read the book, TVL, and I did think Magnus was boring. But after reading The Vampire Armand, I think that this whole story idea int he movie, will kill that essence in the book TVA, that Rice wanted. Marius loves Lestat and Armand, and i would like to see a novel with Louis and marius, that way Louis could perhaps be a little more happier, ( though i know for now he is with Merrick), but still, Louis and Lestat, Armand and Marius. A little meshing inbetween is fine, but, to make marius so wrapped up with Lesta in the movie, is just wrong. When I think of new things to rant about, you bet I will had them, so until then I am going to sulk about the horrible movie, and take a look at the actors that are cast in this film, and are sure to do injustice to the miracles work, of the four originals. And yes, I want to know as well, DID THE PEOPLE IN CHARGE EVEN ASK CRUISE, PITT, BANDERAS, AND SLATER BACK TO THE MOVIE?????

22.

By Jen

Being a HUGE fan of all of Anne Rice's novels, I was very skeptical when I heard they were making Queen, because with few exceptions, Hollywood has gone to shit (can I say that?) for the most part. I had a feeling that they would ruin it, and the first thing I heard was that Aaliyah was going to be Akasha. WHAT?! She's black! Akasha isn't black! She's supposed to look like marble! After 6000 years she's supposed to be pure white! I don't care if Egyptians are dark skinned! AKASHA IS WHITE! ALL VAMPIRES TURN WHITE! I don't mean to go on a rant here but that was enough as it is. I didn't even need to know anything about the script. If they would cast her as Akasha they would do plenty of other things wrong. And of course, after visiting this site and finding out more, my predictions are unfortunately true.

First of all, the actors cast will NEVER do the characters justice. They will never find anyone who looks like Armand, or Lestat, or any of the others for that matter. However, as long as Armand isn't a 35 year old Spanish guy they're already a step ahead of Interview. I like the fact that they're using a lot of unknowns, but I just hope they have the skill to at least portray the characters well (aside from the fact that the scriptwriters DESTROYED them!).

Second and most of all, it is astounding the way Rice's amazing story has been butchered. Queen is an absolutely fantastic book. The writers may as well have read the back of the book and made up the rest themselves. I know everybody on here has been going off about these same things but I CAN'T HELP MYSELF! I hate that they made up a love story that was never there and left out the important ones! I hate that Marius is Lestat's maker! I hate that Armand and Pandora are assholes! I ADORE ARMAND! I CAN'T BELIEVE THEY'RE CHANGING HIM SO MUCH! I hate that they're leaving out Mekare, Louis and Daniel. I LOVE LOUIS AND DANIEL! AND MEKARE IS SO IMPORTANT TO THE PLOT! I hate that they're leaving out the story of the twins! THAT IS WHAT CONNECTED EVERYONE! IT SHOWS HOW THE FIRST VAMPIRES CAME TO BE! IT TIES THE ENTIRE STORY TOGETHER! It is such an important part of the story it's just incredible that they would leave it out! I hate that Akasha has no motivation for her actions! I hate that Lestat's character development is thrown out like a parking ticket! I have a feeling I'm going to hate this movie!

The only suggestions I would have for the script have already been said on this site. STICK TO THE STORY IN THE BOOK! That would make everything okay. They shouldn't change a thing. Of course they have to leave things out and it can't possibly be as detailed, but for what they do use, they should at least follow the original story instead of adding things, changing characters, and warping the plot beyond recognition.
With all that said and done, I'll probably go see it on opening night anyway just so I can scream and rant for weeks after. I love the book too much to ignore the film adaptation, no matter how horrible it will be, and I hope everyone will do the same.

By the way, somebody mentioned something about them not making Book 2. From information on Rice's website, what happened is that she sold the rights for something like 3 years but they never made it. They still have it but obviously since they're making Queen, its not going to happen, so the rights will revert back to Anne.
And that's my two cents.