Johnny Depp: 'Dark Shadows is a classic vampire film'

Johnny Depp has criticised the modern portrayal of vampires in cinema, and promised a return to their classic image in his upcoming film Dark Shadows.

The Tim Burton-directed feature, an adaptation of the popular '60s soap, sees Depp take on the role of romantic vampire Barnabas Collins.

"The memory that I have of watching that show as a kid, Jonathan Frid and what he did with that character was the main inspiration for sure," Depp told MTV News, regarding his take on the character.

Depp went on to vent about the portrayal of vampires in modern supernatural films and television shows as he feels that "nobody looks like a vampire".

"I adored Dracula, still do. I adore all those wonderful sort-of horror films," he continued. "It was an opportunity to sort of go into what doesn't really exist [on screen] so much anymore, which is classic monster make-up and a classic monster character."

The film also stars Michelle Pfeiffer, Helena Bonham Carter, Chloe Moretz and Jackie Earle Hayley.

Dark Shadows is scheduled for release in cinemas on May 11, 2012.

> Johnny Depp as Barnabas Collins in Dark Shadows - first look

Watch Johnny Depp in the trailer for The Rum Diary below: