Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

March 6, 2020

There have been many retellings of the Dracula tale since the classic silent-era Nosferatu (1922). Not all of them have been particularly amazing, and I suppose you can count 1992’s big Hollywood stab at the tale in that camp.

This movie hits the mark about half of the time. The atmosphere, the imposing danger and creepiness, and most importantly, the casting in these timeless and crucial roles. Hopkins as Van Helsing is fantastic, as is Gary Oldman as the titular vampire, who hams it up to no end whilst playing the legendary undead gentleman. Also, I might be somewhat biased, but Winona Ryder is the perfect Mina. Oh, and an honourable mention to Tom Waits as Renfield.

Keanu Reeves as Harker, though? Monica Bellucci dropping in as one of Dracula’s brides? Don’t get me wrong, Monica Belluci is hot as balls, but its stuff like this where the movie kinda trails off, and it becomes apparent you are watching a Hollywood movie, and not the gripping terror of Dracula.

Its still absolutely worth a watch if you haven’t seen it yet, and are a fan of gothic horror, but just be aware of some of the downsides if you do! Ah, the children of the night!