Dracula (Bram Stoker’s)

Well, I just HAD TO watch a creepy movie on Saturday nite (apres-party) and Coppola’s retelling of the Dracula tale won me over. I had seen this picture a few times before, but never while on a cheap buzz or nearing the eve of Halloween.

I LOVED the first 30 minutes of this movie. It was dark, it was creepy, it was stylish, it was brooding, it was scary, it was interesting…it even provided for some decent performances (Reeves’ straight man and Oldman going ALL OUT with Dracula!)

Unfortunately, the film faltered quite some after that as the story seemed to focus LESS on Dracula and more on the “Lucy” character (Winona’s friend in he film) and the romance between Dracul and Winona. The creepy atmosphere, the style and the beautiful set designs remained, but the story seemed to leave the realm of horror and enter a “Romeo and Juliet” phase, which just didn’t do much for me.

But overall, I have to admit that I was still thoroughly impressed with Coppola’s style, his exciting camerawork and the great effects. I wish the story could have been stronger, but I guess I will have to wait until I watch INTERVIEW WITH A VAMPIRE on Halloween Night, in order to appreciate a film with great elements all around.

(c) 2021 Berge Garabedian