Kristen Johnston Joins VAMPS, Filming Begins Next Week In Detroit

Kristen Johnston has joined the cast of writer/director Amy Heckerling's new feature film VAMPS. Written and to be directed by Heckerling, VAMPS tells the modern day tale of two young beautiful female vampires living the good nightlife in New York until love enters the picture and each has to make a choice that will jeopardize her immortality. Filming will begin next week in Detroit, Michigan.

Johnston joins Alicia Silverstone and Krysten Ritter, already on board as two young vampires and Sigourney Weaver, who plays the role of Cisserus, a bloodthirsty "stem" vampire who has created a dynasty.

Johnston plays Mrs. Van Helsing, a posh British woman who is suspicious of her son's new love interest Stacey (Ritter).

Most recently, Johnston was nominated for a 2010 Drama Desk Award for her starring role in The Mint Theater Company's production of So Help Me God! She also had a recurring role on the final season of "Ugly Betty" and has an upcoming guest-starring role on the HBO series "Bored To Death." She is repped by Paradigm, The Hofflund Company and Schreck, Rose, Dapello & Adams."

VAMPS is produced by Red Hour Films ("Tropic Thunder," "Blades of Glory," "Dodgeball"), Lucky Monkey Pictures Lauren Versel (this summer's breakout hit "City Island") and Molly Hassell (Sundance Award Winning "Big River Man"). Executive Producers include Julie Kroll and Maria Teresa Arida.

Heckerling shot to fame directing "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" for Universal followed by the box office hits "Look Who's Talking," "Look Who's Talking Too" and "Clueless."

Foreign sales are being handled by third party sales agent, Lisa Wilson, President of Distribution, Parlay Films LLC, which is a GK Films affiliate.

Photo Credit: Linda Lenzi