What We Do In The Shadows The Guide Explained In Simple Terms

Author anthony Tuesday, 16 September 2025

What We Do in the Shadows: The Guide Explained – Navigating the World of Staten Island Vampires

The show follows four vampires – Nandor, Nadja, Laszlo, and Colin Robinson – sharing a centuries-old Staten Island home, along with their human familiar, Guillermo. Their comedic struggles with modern life, internecine conflicts, and the ever-present threat of vampire hunters provide a rich tapestry of storylines, all while maintaining a consistent comedic tone that cleverly subverts traditional vampire tropes.

The Core Vampire Hierarchy and Power Dynamics

“The problem with being a centuries-old vampire,” explains actor Kayvan Novak, who portrays Nandor, “is that you think you know everything, but the world changes. That’s a big part of Nandor’s humor; he’s trying to adapt, but he’s constantly failing in hilariously spectacular ways.”

Colin Robinson, the energy vampire, occupies a unique position. While not possessing the physical prowess of the other vampires, his ability to drain people's energy makes him a significant, albeit subtly threatening, presence. His seemingly mundane actions often have profound consequences, creating a compelling narrative arc that differs distinctly from the other vampires. His eventual "death" and rebirth highlight the show's willingness to subvert expectations.

Understanding the Supernatural Elements: Magic, Ancestries, and Beyond

Ancestral power and lineage play a role, particularly in the dynamics between Nandor and other ancient vampires. The show hints at a rich vampire history, filled with powerful figures and ancient rivalries. The series introduces different vampire ancestries, showcasing a diverse – if often comedically depicted – vampire world beyond the Staten Island household. This broadens the possibilities for future seasons and allows for the introduction of new and intriguing characters.

Key Character Relationships and their Evolution

The relationships between the vampires are the emotional core of the show. The initial dynamic of a dysfunctional family slowly develops into something resembling affection, albeit still punctuated by betrayal, schemes, and occasional physical altercations. Nandor's complicated feelings for Guillermo, a loyal familiar who secretly yearns to become a vampire himself, form a central emotional thread. Their relationship is characterized by a poignant blend of master-servant dynamics and reluctant respect.

The evolving relationship between Nadja and Laszlo, a couple for centuries, serves as a cynical and humorous exploration of long-term relationships. Their bickering and often outright cruelty mask a deep-seated affection. Their constant betrayals and reconciliations form the comedic backbone of several plotlines. The relationships between these characters shift and evolve over the seasons, demonstrating growth and change within the unconventional dynamic of immortal beings navigating modern society.

The show masterfully blends character development with its overarching comedic tone. Even the seemingly minor characters, like the energy vampire, gain depth and complexity as the narrative unfolds.

The Show's Unique Brand of Humor and its Impact

“It’s a show that’s both incredibly funny and surprisingly poignant,” remarks one critic. “It manages to be silly without being vapid, offering a refreshing and original take on the vampire genre.”