wooly_effert-1

This is one of my all time favourite films. Saw it as a kid under its other title 'Dance of the Vampires' (together with a cartoon title sequence). I remember my dad telling me that the director was also starring as one of the vampire hunters. Fool that I was, I just assumed he was talking about Jack McGowran. Surely the other chap was far too young to be the man responsible for such a cracking film (he looked barely out of his teens). Anyway, I was wrong.

On to the film itself. Even to this day I am amazed how the horror and comedy genres could be mixed so effectively. Rip roaring gags such as the desperate yet futile run around the square that Alfred takes to escape the clutches of Herbert, to the looming horror of Abronsius stuck in the window of the crypt, the sun sinking fast against the stunning winter landscape. Great stuff!

Everything about this film worked for me. The sets were excellent. The music was strange at times, but inspired non-the-less. These elements combining to give the film a wonderful, rich atmospheric feel.

It may not be Roman Polanski's best known film, but as far as I am concerned … it's his best ... without question

Recently reminded of this little gem after visiting its origins in St Michael's Mount, Cornwall. Loved this film as a kid. The attack on the ship was especially effective (I recall it being quite scary when I first saw it). The fact that there were 'scary' elements probably set it apart from the likes of the Sinbad and Jason films, and I guess this is this reason why its my favourite film of its genre and age. Admittedly the effects may look a little ropey nowadays but that doesn't get in the way of a very entertaining film. As much as I enjoyed it though, I can't help but admit that I wouldn't mind someone having a stab at a remake (this version will always be there if it goes pear shaped)