Horror of Dracula (1958) Review in 2025
A classic horror movie based on Bram Stoker's Dracula, starring Christopher Lee as the iconic vampire.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to its horror and gore content.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for horror fans and fans of classic cinema. It's a great introduction to the Dracula character and a solid example of the Hammer Films style.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Jonathan Harker as he travels to Transylvania to finalize the sale of a property to Count Dracula, only to find himself imprisoned in the Count's castle. Meanwhile, back in England, Harker's fiancée Mina and her friends, including the vampire hunter Abraham Van Helsing, must stop Dracula's evil plans to spread terror and death throughout the land.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a good balance of action, suspense, and horror elements. The plot is faithful to the original novel, but with some creative liberties taken to make it more cinematic.
acting9.00/10
The acting is top-notch, with Christopher Lee delivering a standout performance as Count Dracula. The rest of the cast also delivers solid performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, particularly Christopher Lee's iconic portrayal of Count Dracula. The supporting cast, including Peter Cushing and Michael Gough, also deliver solid performances.
direction9.00/10
Terence Fisher's direction is masterful, with a keen sense of pacing and atmosphere. He expertly builds tension and suspense, making the most of the film's limited budget.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is decent, with some impressive use of shadows and lighting to create a spooky atmosphere. However, the black-and-white visuals can make the film look a bit dated at times.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, memorable characters, masterful direction, and impressive performances.
Cons
Some dated visuals and a few plot holes.
Notable Quotes
"'I am Dracula, Lord of the Undead, King of the Night, Prince of Darkness.'"
