Jamie Foxx Shines in ‘Day Shift’, Netflix’s New Vampire Comedy

Fortunately for Bud, who was kicked out of the union for vampire slayers because of his rogue behavior, the director, Ralph, gives him a second chance. But there's just one problem: Ralph wants to get rid of him as quickly as possible. And to make that happen, he persuades Seth (Dave Franco), a timid union rep, to partner up with Bud and keep a record of all his violations.

First off, Foxx totally nails his role as the fun dad/mysterious pool guy/menacing vampire hunter. It's fascinating to see how Bud code-switches (and with such ease) as he takes on different tasks, from wrestling with a vicious neck-biter to casually taking his daughter out for yogurt. But anyone who's familiar with the original Blade films will notice hints of Wesley Snipes's gruff character, from Bud's confident swagger to his intimidating first meeting with Seth. Still, it appears that this character isn't necessarily trying to be the next Blade—which is a good thing. For instance, Foxx occasionally inserts his unique brand of humor—like when he debated with Seth about his thoughts on the Twilight series.

But Foxx isn't the only star who stands out. Franco truly captures the geeky, awkward sidekick to a T, and Snoop Dogg, who plays the smooth-talking action hero, steals almost every scene that he's in. But though these actors deliver good enough performances to keep people watching, the plot is quite predictable and the jokes only moderately funny. The film plays out like your typical, run-of-the-mill buddy-cop comedy (think: Ride Along or The Heat). Only in this case, they are hunters going after creatures of the night—and there's a small twist to the vampire mythos. (Apparently, these powerful neck biters that can disappear and walk in the sun. And due to their regenerative abilities, a simple stake through the heart doesn't always do the trick.)

Still, there are plenty of bloody action scenes that'll satisfy fans of the vampire genre. Perry also did a decent job of including subtle commentary about gentrification and the drawbacks of being part of a labor union. For example, Bud's wife, Jocelyn (Meagan Good), feels pressured to move as Audrey (Karla Souza), a wealthy realtor and secret vampire, infiltrates the neighborhood and purchases all the property to create an exclusive empire for her own clan. And then there's Bud, who experiences a major change in his work life after getting back into the union. Almost immediately, he's reminded that he will have less freedom and flexibility when he's out in the field.

So yes, Day Shift has its strengths, from solid performances and timely themes to gravity-defying fight scenes, but it certainly isn't Foxx's best title. Even so, if you live for bloody, gravity-defying fight scenes, then this one's for you.