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Dracula Blu-ray Review

     Actors: Jack Palance
  • Director: Dan Curtis
  • Format: Multiple Formats, Blu-ray, Color, NTSC
  • Language: English
  • Aspect Ratio: 1.33:1
  • Number of discs: 1
  • Rated: Unrated
  • Studio: MPI HOME VIDEO
  • Release Date: May 27, 2014
  • Run Time: 98 minutes



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            Dan Curtis is well-known in the world of vampire entertainment, having served as writer/producer/director for the popular 1960s cult series, “Dark Shadows,” as well as the 1991 revival. Less remembered is his television adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, which aired in 1974. There have been many adaptations of this exact same story, and it all comes down to preference in performances and differences in style. Dan Curtis’ version may not be the most modern, classic, terrifying or graphic of the many Dracula adaptations, but it does feature a fantastic performance from Jack Palance in the key title role. 

     


            There are certainly other adaptations which make better use of special effects and monster gore in order to spice up the horror and spectacle of the tale, but Dan Curtis provides us with a sanitized yet accurate representation of the story. This is a film which provides its thrills and chills by the skill of the performers, rather than the capability of the special effects department. The only reason this movie becomes slightly dull is the numerous times that the narrative has been told, but I can’t imagine a more tasteful and accurate representation of Stoker’s story outside of the original classic.

     

            Despite being made for television, this version of Dracula was still shot on 35mm, making it possible for the print to be transferred and restored for a high definition Blu-ray release. There are also a surprising number of special features, including interviews with Palance and Curtis, as well as outtakes and TV cuts.

     

    Entertainment Value: 6/10

    Quality of Filmmaking: 7/10

    Historical Significance:  5.5/10
     
    Special Features: 4.5/10


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