Film Review: 1957 “Dracula”
“A dominating entity that creeps in the night and comes from the shadows leaving his victims afraid or consumed in his power.”
Written by Mason Trujillo
24 February 2021
Director Terence Fisher executes in film the classic novel Dracula of Bram Stoker. Showing off Dracula’s dominating prowess, played by the now renowned Chritopher Lee, as he manages to manipulate the characters. Using spectacular lighting and 19th century sets to bring the full scope of the thriller/horror genre and time period. The movie and its cast really put together a classic film to a classic novel.
However, the story line is changed a little to fit the run time of 90 minutes and low budget cost of the Barney Studio. Fisher, although, was really looking to bring out Dracula’s “sexual” aspect and make it transparent that it was Dracula who drove the sexual drive. Fisher says “Dracula preyed upon the sexual frustrations of his woman victims. The (Holmwood) marriage was one in which she [Mina] was not sexually satisfied and that was her weakness as far as Dracula’s approach to her was concerned.” The story keeps most of the storyline from the book as Dracula makes his way through his victims and Dr. Van Helsing trying to stop him.
The actors played a crucial role in depicting the story. Most notably is Chris Lee who was said to be a no brainer when it came to deciding who would take the role. Peter Cushing as Doctor Van Helsing aslo played a spectacular role in the detective nature of the character. Melissa Stribling as Mina Holmwood also plays a fantastic role in the depiction of sexual desire and the sexual frustration of women. These roles combined with the support roles gave the play its special mix of chemistry and relatableness.
The lighting used throughout the film was phenomenal. Using techniques such as light only showing on the face of characters to dark shadows giving Dracula his mysteriousness. These lighting techniques put together the suspense and focus of the audience in an authentic way. Not to mention the 19th century sets that immerse the audience as well with objects and style of the time.
Overall, a true classic that has tried the test of time and is passing so far. From Oscar winning performances, to spectacular settings, to the sexual tension, and mysteriousness of vampirism, if you’re looking for a classic horror film this is the one for you. I encourage you to read the book too.
