Blade (film)
Blade is a 1998 American supernatural superhero film directed by Stephen Norrington and written by David S. Goyer. Based on the Marvel Comics superhero of the same name,[4] it is the first part of the Blade film series. The film stars Wesley Snipes in the title role with Stephen Dorff, Kris Kristofferson and N'Bushe Wright in supporting roles. In the film, Blade is a Dhampir, a human with vampire strengths but not their weaknesses, who protects humans from vampires.
Released on August 21, 1998, Blade became a commercial success by grossing $70 million at the U.S. box office, and $131.2 million worldwide. Despite mixed reviews from film critics, the film received a positive reception from audiences and has since garnered a cult following. It was followed by two sequels, Blade II and Blade: Trinity, both written by Goyer who also directed the latter.
Blade was a dark superhero film for its time.[5] The success of Blade began Marvel's film success and set the stage for further comic book film adaptations.[6][