3 Nov 2010

The Horror of Dracula (1958)


Having read the original book, The Horror of Dracula to some point was a disappointment. The story was heavily abridged. Lacked perhaps the most spectacular supernatural elements described in the book ( shapeshisfting ect. )

Still, the most renowned British horror film Director Terence Fisher had something different from previous Dracula films to offer.

Previously, Dracula was gothic, black and white, with a thick Eastern European accent, and no fangs.” (Hodgson, Mark; 2009)

The Horror of Dracula seems more elegant, with some sophistication added to the characters, particularly to Dracula’s.  Dracula instead of feeling to be a weird (funny) creature (Bella Lugosi’s Dracula) , begins to feel overpowering monster, particularly for the weak and fragile women.
I did notice the heavy use of music. Contrary to contemporary films, here every note is perfectly clear: if we are to see the Dracula Appearing, musical tone would make it a dramatically powerful moment. Perhaps this fails to create the right impression on the audience these days (supposedly we should be wonder-struck). I’d guess it takes lot more subtle and sophisticated use of sound effects, a lot more abstract than a crystal-clear  use of drums, violin ect. 


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