Chinese Hopping Vampire

WM21

2016

Movies and TV

The Jiangshi, often translated as "Chinese Hopping Vampire," is a reanimated corpse in Chinese folklore. Popularized in Hong Kong horror-comedy films, particularly those of the Mr. Vampire series, the Jiangshi is depicted as a stiff, hopping corpse, typically dressed in Qing dynasty official garments.

These creatures are brought back to life through supernatural means, often absorbing "qi" (life force) from the living to sustain themselves. They are blind and sense the living through their breath, making holding one's breath a common defense.

Mr. Vampire (1985) is a landmark film in the Jiangshi genre, establishing many of the tropes and characteristics associated with the creature in modern media. In this and subsequent movies, Jiangshi are often controlled or subdued by Taoist priests using charms, spells, and specific gestures.