Dracula Details

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[Highly rated reviewer]

One of The Guardian's 1000 Films to See Before You Die

One of The Guardian's '1000 Films to See Before You Die' - Fisher's DRACULA, Widely regarded as the feature that revolutionised the British Gothic horror genre and established Hammer's blood-curdling reputation, this first full colour reworking of Bram Stoker's novel, is legendary among horror fans for introducing Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing on screen for the first time.

Although he inherited the swirling cape from Bela Lugosi (The American release was retitled THE HORROR OF DRACULA to avoid confusion with the 1931 black and white classic), Christopher Lee's inspired blend of aristocratic charm and animal magnetism (not to mention those blood-red contact lenses) made the role all his own. He still holds the record for the most film performances of the Count.

An energetic and intense experience, from the blood-drenched title credits, through an astonishingly zealous piece of improvisation by Peter Cushing, as Dr Van Helsing breaks free from the Count and desperately runs the length of the table in the Great Hall, before leaping to tear down the curtains and reach for that makeshift candlestick crucifix. The much-emulated climactic disintegration scene, seen here in its entirety for the first time, influenced the ending of GREMLINS and the disintegration of Voldemort in the first Harry Potter film.

With an interesting cameo from Michael Gough (Alfred in the Batman films playing Holmwood), lavish cinematography and James Bernard's frenetic musical score, this is a treat for horror fans and the cineaste.

[Highly rated reviewer]

Arise Sir Dracula....its long overdue.

If you read my review on Hammers Devil Rides Out....then you'll know I am a long standing Christopher Lee fan....I as a kid growing up thru the 60's and 70's adored all Hammer Horror films, not only because they were stylish, atmospheric and real class A movies,but because you have the likes of Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing giving you the acting of their lives.

And now today 13/06/09 we have at last recognition for one of horrors greatest ever, Sir Christopher Lee, 87 years old and still acting. In my opinion, one of the most long overdue knighthoods that should have been given at least 20 yrs ago and I may say that his arch rival in many horror films Peter Cushing deserved a knighthood as well,even though its way too late for Peter Cushing, it would recognise the fact that Hammer horror films and the actors that played those most pivotal roles, was a very special era for us that grew up with Hammer.

So congratulations to Sir Christopher Lee, it is richly deserved...:-)..Sorry this is not really a review about Dracula...but give me time and I will.