**Blade** is a 1998 American superhero horror film directed by Stephen Norrington and written by David S. Goyer. Based on the Marvel Comics superhero of the same name, it is the first installment in the **Blade** 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 the powers of a vampire but without their weaknesses. Along with his mentor Abraham Whistler and hematologist Karen Jenson, Blade fights against vampires, especially the extremely cruel Deacon Frost.

**Blade** was released on August 21, 1998 and was a commercial success, grossing $70 million at the US box office and $131.2 million worldwide. Despite mixed reviews from critics, the film was well received by audiences and has since become a cult classic. Snipes’s role as Blade is considered one of his most iconic roles. The film was followed by two sequels, **Blade II** and **Blade: Trinity**, both of which were written by Goyer, who also directed **Blade: Trinity**.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WK7jxmr_r3Q

**Blade** was considered a dark superhero film at the time. The success of **Blade** ushered in a period of success for Marvel comic book adaptations, laying the foundation for subsequent film projects.