Nandor The Relentless

Hannah Arendt

2 min read

·

14-12-2024

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Nandor the Relentless, from the FX series What We Do in the Shadows, isn't your typical brooding, gothic vampire. While he possesses the classic traits—immortality, a thirst for blood, an aversion to sunlight—Nandor is far more nuanced, a complex character brimming with surprising vulnerability beneath a veneer of arrogant authority. He is a comedic powerhouse, yet his story resonates with a depth that belies the show's often absurdist humor.

A Legacy of Violence and Regret

Nandor's backstory, revealed in fragmented flashbacks throughout the series, paints a picture of a warrior king turned immortal monster. His conquests and battles are presented with a darkly comedic flair, highlighting the absurdity of his long life and the toll it has taken on his psyche. He laments his lost loves, his failed attempts at conquering the modern world, and the ever-present weight of his past atrocities. This isn't a simple case of "evil vampire"; it's a study of a creature struggling with the consequences of his actions over centuries.

The Irony of Immortality

The irony of Nandor's immortality is central to his character. He yearns for connection and meaning, yet his very existence prevents him from finding lasting fulfillment. He craves the simple joys of life—a meaningful relationship, a sense of purpose beyond conquest—but his centuries of existence have left him jaded and somewhat lost. The humor stems from the stark contrast between his grandiose self-image and his often clumsy, inept attempts at achieving his goals.

Beyond the Jokes: Exploring Nandor's Humanity

While the comedic elements are undeniably prominent, Nandor's character possesses a surprising degree of humanity. His loyalty to his familiar, Nadja and Laszlo, and even his occasionally endearingly inept attempts at understanding the modern world demonstrate a capacity for affection and growth, even if it's often clumsy and misguided. The show cleverly uses humor to explore complex themes of loneliness, regret, and the search for meaning in a life that stretches far beyond the boundaries of human comprehension.

A Character for Our Times

Nandor's appeal lies in his relatability. Despite his supernatural nature, he embodies universal anxieties about aging, mortality, and the search for belonging. He is a character who is constantly evolving, learning, and—most importantly—making us laugh along the way. He proves that even a centuries-old vampire can be a source of poignant and hilarious reflection on the human condition. His journey, while bathed in the absurd, ultimately speaks to the enduring quest for connection and purpose that resonates with audiences of all ages.