Torn between a desire to be more human and an insatiable thirst for blood, the tormented vampire Rhea sets her seductive sights on an unemployed post-grad concept artist, leading them both down a deadly path in the new film Drained. Directed by Peter Stylianou and Sean Cronin and filmed on location in London, Drained is now available on VOD platforms via Level 33 Entertainment, and Daily Dead caught up with star Madalina Bellariu Ion to discuss playing Rhea in the new vampire movie, including diving into her character’s intriguing duality, the script’s exploration of addiction in multiple forms, and her experiences working with a talented cast and crew to bring Drained to undead life!
Below, you can read our full Q&A with Madalina Bellariu Ion, and to learn more about Drained, visit:
Thank you for taking the time to answer questions for us, Madalina, and congratulations on your new vampire film Drained! What was it about your character Rhea that made you want to play her and be involved with this film?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: Thank you! I’m excited for people to watch the movie. Rhea is such a fascinating and layered character. What drew me to her was the duality she embodies—she’s magnetic and alluring but also dangerous and deeply tormented. Beneath that exterior, she’s tired of the suffering she causes, and she is always desperately seeking for a partner who will willingly dedicate his life to her.
I liked exploring her complexity and the tension between her existence as a vampire and her yearning to be more human. The film itself blends a seductive romance in a supernatural horror tale. When I first read the script, I loved how it delves into themes of addiction—whether that’s toxic relationships, social media, or substance abuse.
I understand that you were born in Transylvania, a region that makes many horror fans instantly think of Dracula. Did that make playing a vampire even more fun for you?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: Absolutely! My grandparents were from Transylvania, and I spent part of my childhood there. It’s a place so deeply connected to the Dracula legend, which definitely added a special thrill to playing a vampire. Growing up, I was surrounded by fascinating stories about the region and the mysterious Carpathian landscapes, which sparked my imagination early on.
That connection made stepping into the role of Rhea even more fun. Discussing with writer/director Peter Stylianou, we changed some lines from English to Romanian in the film, which I think adds authenticity.
Do you have any favorite vampire movies or TV shows that inspired you while you were getting into character as Rhea?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: Peter Stylianou suggested that we watch Only Lovers Left Alive before filming Drained. Even though my character Rhea is quite different from Eve (played by Tilda Swinton) and Adam (played by Tom Hiddleston), and even though I cannot say I took any inspiration from there with Rhea, that film strives to keep things raw, natural, and grounded, and that’s an aspect of Thomas and Rhea’s relationship that Peter wanted to keep.
That being said, we didn’t have the budget or the luxury of time that Only Lovers Left Alive had, but that made the process sometimes more fun, and thanks to the passionate small team attached to Drained, it also made it quite special.
My first day on set, we filmed the scene where Rhea accompanies Thomas to visit his mum (played by Angela Dixon). After we filmed that scene, I was told I reminded them of Jenna Ortega’s portrayal in Wednesday. That wasn’t intentional, but I did approach the scene with the understanding that Rhea is unfamiliar with social courtesies and traditional family dynamics. Those are distant memories for her. I also took the decision that she didn’t have a normal upbringing, so the family dinner setup felt strange and alien to her.
In that specific scene, there may have been a touch of Tim Burton’s Wednesday character in my portrayal. Beyond that, I played Rhea moment by moment, focusing on a confident, unforced sensuality, mystery, and danger. She’s deeply aware of the power she holds over weak boys like Thomas, and at times, I even made the choice that she could hear his heart racing.
Much of this movie hinges on the chemistry between Rhea and Thomas, played by Ruaridh Aldington. What was it like working with Ruaridh to create a unique (and at times deadly) connection between your characters?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: Rory (Ruaridh) is fantastic! We first met over Zoom for our chemistry test before I was officially confirmed for the role. At the time, I was in Hungary, filming two comedies back-to-back, and I was worried about my internet connection. But even through the screen, I could sense the natural chemistry that was created between Thomas and Rhea. They’re similar in some ways, yet vastly different, which made their dynamic so compelling.
Due to time constraints, we didn’t have rehearsal days before filming, so we went straight into production. Whenever we had breaks between scenes, Rory and I would run through our lines and discuss the blocking with the directors. He’s a talented actor and an incredibly kind person who was always attentive to the cast and especially to the crew.
Drained was directed by Peter Stylianou and Sean Cronin, who both bring a lot of energy to this story with their filmmaking style. What was it like working with Peter and Sean to bring this story to undead life?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: Both Peter and Sean are wonderful to work with. Peter, who also wrote Drained, had discussions with us about the script and character arcs prior to filming to help us understand our characters’ backgrounds and their journey.
Sean Cronin, on the other hand, is known for playing villains in major productions such as Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, and James Bond. He had a very clear vision for the film’s climax, particularly Rhea’s transformation during the full moon when she becomes a very hungry, ferocious vampire.
Drained features great makeup effects by Francesca Reidie. What was it like working with Francesca to bring out the vampiric side of your character?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: Francesca is amazing! She’s incredibly versatile, excelling at both classic beauty makeup and SFX. I would love to work with her again in the future. Her passion and attention to detail brought Rhea’s look to life.
Drained was filmed in London, and the cinematography by Daniel Patrick Vaughan really captures the city’s immersive atmosphere. What was it like to film in such a historic city?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: I lived in London for 11 years, and I absolutely love that city. I initially moved there to study acting for three years, but I ended up staying because of the incredible work opportunities, the people, and that vibrant, eclectic energy—even when it rains!
Daniel Patrick Vaughan is a brilliant cinematographer and also served as the producer on this project. From what I understand, he was the first person to read Peter’s script and see its potential. He then brought Sean Cronin on board as a co-director and producer. His passion for filmmaking really shines through in the visual storytelling of Drained.
Looking back at your time on set, is there a favorite or memorable moment that stands out?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: This was my first time doing wire work for flying scenes, and that’s an experience I’ll never forget! It was both challenging and exhilarating.
Also, working on a film with a limited budget makes you truly appreciate the dedication of the crew. Everyone worked so hard and poured their passion into this project. Their commitment and energy made the experience unforgettable.
Ultimately, what do you hope viewers take away from Drained?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: The film explores themes of codependency and toxic relationships. I hope viewers reflect on the dangers of losing themselves in unhealthy partnerships and recognize the importance of self-awareness and setting boundaries.
Through Thomas’ journey, we see how individuals can become entrapped by their desires, leading to self-destructive behaviors. I hope the film sparks conversations around these important themes.
With Drained now available on VOD, do you have any other projects coming up that you can tease? Also, where can our readers go online to keep up with your work?
Madalina Bellariu Ion: Yes, absolutely! You can find all my past and upcoming projects listed on IMDb when searching my name. In terms of social media, I’m most active on Instagram (@madalinabellariu), but I’m also on Facebook and X.
Thank you so much to everyone for your support. I can’t wait to hear people’s reactions to Drained! Please don’t forget to leave a score and review on the IMDb page of Drained after watching it!
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In case you missed it, watch an exclusive clip from Drained, and to learn more about where to watch the film, read the official press release below and visit:
From the Press Release: “British filmmakers’ Peter Stylianou and Sean Cronin’s London-based feature vampire film “Drained” releases in North America today via Level 33 Entertainment on VOD via Amazon, Apple TV and Fandango at Home, among other premium digital channels.
Co-directed and produced by Cronin and Peter Stylianou from a screenplay by the latter, the supernatural horror film – a take on the classic European myth of the nosferatu which premiered at the prestigious Screamfest Horror Film Festival in October 2024, – was filmed in London, England, and is a Magnificent Films/House 54/RG Films co-production. House 54 is run by cinematographer and producer Daniel Patrick Vaughan who brought all parties together for this co-production. Cronin as an actor has portrayed villains in dozens of box office hits, as well as having directed several award-winning titles, including the upcoming feature ‘Bogieville.’ Peter Stylianou is a writer/director with two feature film credits already to his name.
Reads the synopsis for ‘Drained’, “In the neon-soaked streets of London, Thomas, a jobless post-graduate concept artist, falls in love with Rhea, a mysterious woman who turns out to be a vampire. As their twisted romance unfolds, Thomas’s health deteriorates, and he spirals out of control.”
Ruaridh Aldington (“Dirty Boy”) and Madalina Bellariu Ion (“Dampyr”) star as the ill-fated couple, with supporting cast which includes Craig Conway (“Dog Soldiers”), Angela Dixon (“Never Let Go”), Andrew Lyle-Pinnock, Natasha Patel (The Witcher: Blood Origin), Andrew Lee Potts (Band of Brothers), Diana Yekinni, Ayvianna Snow, Kenton Lloyd Morgan and Timothy Blore.
Special makeup effects are by Francesca Reidie, with Ellie Campbell handling production design and cinematography by Daniel Patrick Vaughan.
