If the factoids on the Hammer studio are correct, Hammer's formula was to use the horror myths they had bough from Universal (Frankenstein, Dracula, the werewolf) and adapt them in middle-budget colour films, stressing the inherent blood and erotism of the originals for comercial reasons.
If that is true, then you can't find a film closer to this formula to this one. Jimmy Sangster's script trims the novel of almost anything superflous to focus in the confrontation between Van Helsing (played with fierce concentration by Peter Cushing) and Count Dracula (not a romantic figure here, but a representation of the free pursuit of lust, a character of amazing animalism and sexual intensity in the hands of Christopher Lee). Scenarios and supporting characters are placed as obstacles in their direct confrontation, and they are invariably removed after they've either succumbed or become useless.
And Terence Fisher seems to drain every scene and every situation for lust or blood, but with the same elegance and talent he shows in most of his movies with Hammer. An absolute must see, a brilliant film.
I'm a fan of all the Hammer Dracula and Frankenstein movies. I agree . . . this is one of the best.
Before I saw this about 10 years ago, I really wasn't into gothic horror or vampire movies or anything. Before this, the only Hammer movies I'd ever seen were Dracula AD 1972 and it's direct sequel Satanic Rites Of Dracula (cheesy and fun, but not great). Let's just say I was extremely surprised when I saw the original of the franchise and was blown away.
The scene where Chris Lee is mellltttinngg away in the sunlight & then turns to dust that blows away still can blow me away . . .
I own this, but am going to have to replace it soon, as I've just about worn it out from repeated viewings.
Has there ever been a RED like Hammer Red? And I don't mean JUST the blood -- the titles/the costume trim/the set dressing, etc.
And the good old Hammer horses!! Still, whenever we see a well-turned-out team in harness around here -- it's still pretty rural in some parts of the county -- the wife & I turn to each other & go "Hammer Horses!!".
Really just a wonderful wonderful film . . .
peter johnson/denny crane
This is my favorite of the Hammer films. That Dracula theme music must have inspired the Darth Vader music.