Jonathan Rhys Meyers Set to Star in Vampire Romance 'Pretty Kill Machine'
The acclaimed actor is returning to the vampire genre, joining the upcoming feature project directed by Matthew Wilder.
Published 3 November 2026
Return to the Vampire Genre
Jonathan Rhys Meyers is officially heading back into the world of bloodsuckers and eternal darkness. Approximately a decade after previously portraying Dracula for television networks NBC and Sky, the accomplished star has signed on for a brand new cinematic venture titled Pretty Kill Machine. This upcoming film marks a notable return to the supernatural horror-romance genre that he previously helped bring to life on the small screen.
The announcement has generated considerable early interest among fans of gothic storytelling and vampire lore. Rhys Meyers brings a distinct presence to dark material, making his casting a major focal point for the production as it prepares to enter the wider film market.
Plot and Setting Details
The narrative of Pretty Kill Machine unfolds primarily in and around Joshua Tree, California. The story centers on a supernatural entity named Vee, who has walked the earth since before recorded history. While she is technically a vampire in the traditional sense, she prefers to view herself simply as a day drinker, drifting between an elegant hotel bar and a mirrored, glass-walled lair situated deep in the desert.
Vee sustains herself by feeding on blood and, more dangerously, on human souls. However, her centuries-long existence of solitary wandering is suddenly thrown into deep crisis when she experiences genuine romantic love for the very first time. This unprecedented emotional development threatens to bring her eternal reign to an abrupt end for good.
Character and Casting Dynamics
While Vee navigates her startling new emotional awakening, Jonathan Rhys Meyers will portray the human man who captures her attention and ultimately wins her heart. The dynamic between the ancient supernatural being and her mortal romantic interest forms the emotional core of the narrative.
Known for his prominent television roles in hit series such as The Tudors and Vikings, Rhys Meyers is well-equipped to handle the intense dramatic requirements of a dark, high-stakes romance set against an isolated desert backdrop.
Creative Leadership and Direction
The creative vision for Pretty Kill Machine is being shaped by writer and director Matthew Wilder, who is handling both the screenplay adaptation and the direction of the film. Wilder previously directed Your Name Here, bringing his distinct artistic perspective to this new genre project.
Production duties are being spearheaded by David Hillary, known for Bill Ted Face the Music, alongside Yariv Lerner. Lerner also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Nu Boyana Studios, ensuring strong logistical backing for the independent feature.
Global Sales and Market Launch
Global sales and distribution for the movie are being handled by Quantify, a newly formed international sales and distribution company. Quantify is a collaborative venture established by Nu Boyana Studios, Dark Matter Studios, Government Island, and Film Forge Media.
The company has scheduled the official worldwide sales launch for the upcoming AFM market. Executives at the firm are confident that the unique premise and strong leading man will attract substantial interest from international buyers.
Industry Expectations and Outlook
Industry figures have expressed optimism regarding how the global market will receive the project. Yariv Lerner of Quantify noted that Wilder has constructed a genuinely sensuous and dangerous cinematic world, anchored securely by Rhys Meyers at the center.
With a blend of supernatural lore, desert atmosphere, and high-stakes romance, the film aims to stand out among independent offerings at the market, positioning itself as a major title to watch as pre-sales progress.
News Overview
Jonathan Rhys Meyers is returning to the vampire genre to star in the romantic feature Pretty Kill Machine, directed by Matthew Wilder and sales-launched by Quantify. The story follows an ancient supernatural entity in Joshua Tree who faces a crisis after falling in love with a mortal man played by Rhys Meyers.
Key facts
- Jonathan Rhys Meyers starred as Dracula for NBC and Sky a decade ago.
- Pretty Kill Machine is a vampire romance movie.
- Quantify is launching worldwide sales ahead of AFM.
- Matthew Wilder is adapting and directing the film.
- David Hillary and Yariv Lerner are producing the film.
- Yariv Lerner is the CEO of Nu Boyana Studios.
- Quantify was formed by Nu Boyana Studios, Dark Matter Studios, Government Island, and Film Forge Media.
- The film is set in and around Joshua Tree, California.
- The main character Vee is a vampire who feeds on blood and souls.
- Jonathan Rhys Meyers plays the man Vee falls in love with.