I've been wanting to take the time to reply to this one for some time...
My Favorite Characters
1.) Barnabas. Of all the classic film characters, vampyres are my favorites. David Skal in his books notes that Barnabas is the transitional figure from the Lugosi/Lee type vampyres to the modern, emotional Anne Rice type of characters. Barnabas was the most complex if sometimes contradictory character of the show, and when Jonathan Frid was truly "on", he was riveting. Without Barnabas, I don't think we'd be watching this show 35 years later. (Skal-Hollywood Gothic, V is for Vampyre, others.)
2.) David Collins. I have a great affection for David as he was living the life I wanted when I was his age. Great spooky house, endless rooms, plenty of mystery and best of all, real ghosts. I definitely projected myself into the show as David growing up.
He looked about my age even if he was a little older.
I also identified with his lonliness, as another only child.
3.) Prof. Stokes. As a professor of the occult, he was the adult i wanted to grow up to be. He had style, wit, and sophistication.
4.) Angelique. My favorite female character as she was so good as the adversary of Barnabas, and yet you sensed the love behind the hate. Like Barnabas, as complex and excitingly unpredictable character. ( I really like the episodes Violet Welles scrpited for Lara, they gave her such depth.)
5.) Quentin. Because he was the opposite of Barnabas, fun loving, extroverted and yet sensative as well. He had a sense of strength I liked too.
I want to say all of these character we very , very well cast. They fit the parts like a glove and brought so much personality to them.
I also love Vickie, Trask, Ben Stokes and Cyrus among others as well.
My last favorite is totally personal.
Julianka, the gyspy. Okay, she's totally hot. Sadly, only 4 epsiodes. And yes, my wife has my permision to buy that costume for Halloween or anytime.
