rickmont

I didn't know what to expect, but I liked it. I read a lot of the negative reviews, and can't quite understand why some were so critical. This movie is a serious, relentless, bare, unrepentant character study. If you aren't interested in seeing that, or if you are one of those who complain about a political agenda (even if one doesn't actually exist in the film), or if you think you might have more important things to do, then you probably won't like watching this movie. You've become hardened by reality. Go watch something else. If you want to spend two hours on a tour de force that laps you with one emotional wave after another without the slightest apology, watch this movie. And congratulations, you're still human.

I just watched this master work again for about the umpteenth time and with every viewing I understand less the negative comments written here about this film. If you want to THINK about what you're seeing and hearing, this film delivers with gusto! In every scene, the cinematography, lighting, music, costuming, direction, atmosphere and best of all the performances glow brilliantly in a film that is very thought provoking, mesmerizing, chilling, horrific, sad, funny, chaotic, etc. etc. Jon Shear has fashioned and excellent portrayal of Charlie's desperate struggle to come back to reality after a devastating life event. I remain fascinated with the way everything preceding the climax is ingeniously woven into a tapestry of visual and aural sensation that reveals the inner workings of this man's mental anguish. I would fully recommend this movie to anyone who seeks a fuller understanding of human emotions. Kudos to Mr. Shear, the cast, and everyone else instrumental in bringing this superb feature to the screen.

I must agree with all those who say that this is the best adaptation of Stoker's masterpiece. Although I enjoyed F.F. Coppola's film, I still feel that this little gem captured the eerieness and forboding of the novel much better. The production does have its flaws. Occasional poor editing and the switching from film to tape which are too obvious. Dark Shadows like special effects.

I disagree with those who feel Louis Jourdan is miscast. I think he has just the right menace and dark sensuality to portray the Count.

Why on Earth hasn't anyone put this on the video cassette market? It's beyond me. But more importantly, why hasn't anyone figured out that this is the definitive Dracula and done a bigger budget remake. I guess Hollywood today simply doesn't have the kind of resources the BBC had in the late 70s.