Sunday, March 24, 2024

Dracula (1974)

 

From Wiki, since the movie follows the book pretty faithfully, but also several of the previous movies, and we all know the plot of those by now.  Dracula, also known as Bram Stoker's Dracula and Dan Curtis' Dracula, is a 1974 British made-for-television gothic horror film and adaptation of Bram Stoker's 1897 novel Dracula. It was written by Richard Matheson and directed by Dark Shadows creator Dan Curtis, with Jack Palance in the title role.  It was the second collaboration for Curtis and Palance after the 1968 TV film The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.[1]

 This was the longest adaptation of Dracula so far.  It is quite good, but I can see why earlier versions streamlined the movie.  It runs 100 minutes, and was still edited for time.  Palance is great, and a very genteel vampire.  Take 10 to 15 minutes out and this would be held up to both Bela and Chris Lee as a classic.  Well shot and the cast is good.  Oddly enough, Drac does not turn to dust after being staked.  That was different.  Knowing Curtis, a sequel was on his mind.  It was not to be, though.

Next week- Dan Curtis strikes again- Gargoyles!

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