What We Do in the Shadows: Guillermo’s Vampire Hunting Destiny
FX’s mockumentary series, What We Do in the Shadows, has captivated audiences with its hilarious portrayal of vampire roommates navigating the modern world. While the vampires – Nandor, Laszlo, Nadja, and Colin Robinson – provide endless comedic fodder, the character of Guillermo de la Cruz, Nandor’s familiar, has emerged as a compelling and increasingly important figure. Initially presented as a long-suffering servant, Guillermo’s journey has taken unexpected turns, revealing a hidden lineage and a potential destiny far greater than scooping up vampire vomit. This article delves into Guillermo’s character arc, exploring his vampire hunting heritage and its implications for the future of the show. What We Do in the Shadows has expertly woven humor and horror, and Guillermo is central to that balance.
Guillermo: From Familiar to Vampire Hunter
For years, Guillermo has dutifully served Nandor the Relentless, hoping one day to be turned into a vampire himself. He performs all the mundane tasks associated with being a familiar: cleaning, procuring victims, and protecting his master from sunlight. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly subservient role lies a secret. Guillermo discovers that he is a descendant of Van Helsing, the legendary vampire hunter. This revelation throws his entire world into chaos, forcing him to reconcile his loyalty to Nandor with his innate ability to kill vampires. The dynamic between Guillermo and Nandor is a core element of the show’s appeal.
The Van Helsing Lineage
The discovery of Guillermo’s Van Helsing heritage is a pivotal moment in the series. It explains his natural aptitude for fighting vampires, a skill he had unknowingly suppressed for years. The show cleverly integrates this aspect of vampire lore, adding depth and complexity to Guillermo’s character. He’s not just a hapless familiar; he’s a potential weapon against the very creatures he serves. This internal conflict is a source of both comedy and drama, as Guillermo struggles with his dual identity. He is the familiar of Nandor, but he is also a Van Helsing, a vampire hunter.
Guillermo’s Secret Life
Initially, Guillermo tries to keep his vampire hunting abilities a secret, fearing Nandor’s reaction. He secretly dispatches vampires who pose a threat to his master and his roommates, often cleaning up their messes without their knowledge. This clandestine activity adds a layer of intrigue to his character, making him a more active and resourceful participant in the show’s narrative. The audience is constantly aware of Guillermo’s potential, even as he continues to perform his familiar duties. His dual life is a delicate balancing act, and the threat of exposure is always present. What We Do in the Shadows thrives on these sorts of character-driven conflicts.
The Evolution of Guillermo’s Character
As the series progresses, Guillermo becomes more assertive and confident. He begins to question his role as a familiar and demands more respect from Nandor. He even starts to explore his own desires and ambitions, independent of his master. This character development is a key reason why Guillermo has become such a fan favorite. He’s not just a sidekick; he’s a complex and relatable character with his own agency. The show does an excellent job of showcasing his growth, making him an integral part of the ensemble. The evolution of Guillermo’s character is a testament to the show’s strong writing.
Confronting Nandor
The inevitable confrontation between Guillermo and Nandor is a major turning point in their relationship. When Nandor finally discovers Guillermo’s vampire hunting abilities, he is initially shocked and betrayed. However, their bond is strong, and they eventually find a way to reconcile. This allows Guillermo to be more open about his identity and to use his skills to protect his friends, even if it means occasionally staking a few vampires along the way. The dynamic between Guillermo and Nandor is one of the most compelling aspects of What We Do in the Shadows.
[See also: Nandor the Relentless: A Study in Vampire Leadership]
Beyond Familiar: Guillermo’s Future
The future of Guillermo’s character is full of possibilities. Will he fully embrace his Van Helsing heritage and become a full-fledged vampire hunter? Will he continue to serve Nandor, balancing his loyalty with his innate abilities? Or will he forge his own path, independent of both vampires and hunters? The show has cleverly set up multiple potential storylines for Guillermo, ensuring that he remains a central and compelling figure in the series. His journey is far from over, and audiences are eager to see what the future holds for this unlikely vampire hunter. He may become the greatest vampire hunter, or he may continue to serve Nandor. The possibilities are endless, and What We Do in the Shadows keeps viewers guessing.
The Humor and Horror of Guillermo’s Situation
One of the things that makes What We Do in the Shadows so successful is its ability to blend humor and horror seamlessly. Guillermo’s situation perfectly embodies this balance. He’s a vampire hunter who is also a loyal servant to a vampire, a situation ripe with comedic potential. The show mines this tension for laughs, but it also explores the darker aspects of Guillermo’s identity. He’s constantly grappling with his own morality, trying to reconcile his duty to Nandor with his innate desire to kill vampires. This internal conflict adds depth and complexity to his character, making him more than just a comedic foil. What We Do in the Shadows uses Guillermo to explore complex themes in a humorous way.
The Stakes Are High (Pun Intended)
Despite the comedic tone of the show, the stakes are often surprisingly high. Guillermo is constantly putting himself in danger, both from the vampires he serves and the vampires he hunts. He has to be clever and resourceful to survive, and he often relies on his wits and his Van Helsing instincts to get him out of tight spots. This adds a layer of suspense to the show, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Even though it’s a comedy, What We Do in the Shadows doesn’t shy away from moments of genuine peril. The risk is always there for Guillermo, whether he is serving Nandor or hunting vampires.
Guillermo as the Audience Surrogate
In many ways, Guillermo serves as the audience surrogate in What We Do in the Shadows. He’s the most relatable character, the one who is most grounded in reality. He’s often exasperated by the vampires’ antics, and he provides a voice of reason amidst their chaotic lives. This makes him a sympathetic and engaging character, someone that audiences can root for. He is the anchor of the show, the one who keeps the vampires somewhat grounded. The audience sees the world of What We Do in the Shadows through Guillermo’s eyes.
Conclusion: Guillermo’s Enduring Appeal in What We Do in the Shadows
Guillermo de la Cruz has evolved from a long-suffering familiar to a complex and compelling character in What We Do in the Shadows. His Van Helsing lineage has added a new dimension to his story, creating a fascinating blend of humor and horror. As the series continues, Guillermo’s journey promises to be full of surprises, and audiences are eager to see what the future holds for this unlikely vampire hunter. The show continues to surprise with Guillermo’s development, and he remains a central figure. What We Do in the Shadows has crafted a truly unique character in Guillermo, and his enduring appeal is a testament to the show’s clever writing and strong performances. He is more than just Nandor’s familiar; he is a vital part of the show’s success.
The exploration of what we do in the shadows with Guillermo’s vampire hunting potential adds a layer of intrigue that keeps viewers engaged. This show is an amazing comedy. The character of Guillermo in What We Do in the Shadows is a testament to the show’s clever writing and character development, showcasing the delicate balance of humor and horror. The evolution of his character, from a familiar to a potential vampire hunter, is a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences. The show has cleverly set up multiple potential storylines for Guillermo, ensuring that he remains a central and compelling figure in the series. It is difficult to ignore Guillermo’s development.
