Bram Stoker's Dracula - Review

"I have crossed oceans of time to find you" – A review of Bram Stoker's Dracula. 

I love the gothic, so much so that I studied a gothic literature module whilst I was studying English Literature at university. Frankenstein, The Picture of Dorian Gray and, of course, Dracula all featured – and I loved them all. So how does the 1992 film Bram Stoker's Dracula live up to the classic novel?

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, Bram Stoker's Dracula is a true reimagining of the book. The film follows Count Dracula, who has suffered a terrible and heartbreaking loss in the form of the passing of the woman he loved. Having renounced God and turned to darkness, thus becoming the vampire of legend, he is condemned to survive off the blood of the living for eternity. When the young lawyer, Jonathan Harker, is sent to Dracula's castle to finalise a land deal, Dracula sees a photograph of his fiancée Mia – who has a remarkable resemblance to his dead wife. Imprisoning Harker, Dracula sets off to London to find the woman he believes is the reincarnation of his deceased love, in a story full of gothic imagery and sensuality.

The cast for this film is pretty special. Dracula is played by Gary Oldman, who is mesmerising to watch; his portrayal is both menacing and emotional, as you truly feel the tragic longing that he has felt for all his long years. Aside from Oldman, the cast consists of legendary actors such as Anthony Hopkins as an eccentric Van Helsing, Winona Ryder as an innocent Mia and Keanu Reeves as an earnest Jonathan Harker. With names like these, plus the likes of Richard E. Grant and Sadie Frost, it's unsurprising that the performances are strong throughout.

For me though, the best thing about this film is how it looks. The plot is almost secondary to the aesthetic – rich colour palettes and dramatic lighting enhance moments of terror and romance, practical effects bring a feeling of timelessness and moments such as Dracula's shadow moving independently, or the surreal journey to the castle show an incredible command of visual storytelling and a masterclass in creating a gothic atmosphere. It sounds great too; the soundtrack is haunting, full of dramatic orchestral pieces and more subtle motifs, whilst the atmospheric sounds of the howling wind or bustling streets create an immersive experience.

Whilst the plot isn't bad, I do feel it loses its way part way through the film. Strangely though, I actually don't mind this; it's visually stunning and full of emotive and strong performances throughout, creating an experience that fans of the gothic genre are sure to enjoy.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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