I want all of you to tell me what you think the greatest vampire movie was/is. Right now, I'm in a "Blade" mood, but that is liable to change. What's your input?
I like The Night Stalker TV movie myself :) But Of coarse Bela's Dracula is #1 in my book.
Tom
I gotta say Lugosi's "Dracula".
The things that make vampires frightening in ways different from other types of monsters are all beautifully demostrated in it. The way the Count seems so cultered and sophistitcated one minute (in the parlour or the theatre) and then a few minutes later he's at either Lucy or Mina's bedside engaging in unspeakable horrific acts! And the way he just stands there hearing everything (on the balcony or behind a tree) without moving a muscle or batting an eye, waiting for the proper moment to strike!
GREATEST VAMPIRE MOVIE EVER: The '31 Drac! No doubt about it.
Horror of Dracula is definitely one of my favorites. There's a lot of good vampire films, and that's the first one that comes to mind!
Quote from: Tom Smith Monsternut on January 15, 2008, 11:33:09 PM
I like The Night Stalker TV movie myself :) But Of coarse Bela's Dracula is #1 in my book.
Tom
I, too, like the original NIGHT STALKER telefilm. Janos Skorzeny, played by Barry Atwater, had a menace like Christopher Lee's Dracula. Although Lugosi's Drac is iconic for the character, I never thought he was scary per se. Despite the naysaying, I really like BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA and the original SALEMS LOT with the Nosferatu-like Kurt Barlow. Sorry I couldn't give just one favorite. It's just never that easy.
Rob
I think Bela is the greatest screen vampire, followed by Max Schreck then Christopher Lee. But for my favorite vampire films, I would list them in reverse order: Horror of Dracula, Nosferatu and Dracula. I might put Bram Stoker's Dracula in fourth place. Other worthy contenders are Black Sabbath, The Night Stalker, Herzog's Nosferatu and some of the Hammer Dracula sequels.
My favorite vampire films are definitely the Hammer films with Christopher Lee. Lugosi immortalized the character, but I still like Lee's portrayal better. So my favorite vampire movies in order would be: Horror of Dracula, Dracula, Murnau's Nosferatu, Herzog's Nosferatu The Vampyre, and Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Also, while not "traditional" vampire films, another honorable mention would be the Mr. Vampire movies, which are a Chinese take on the vampire mythos, mixed with Hong Kong martial arts and slapstick comedy. One of these days, I also want to get around to watching Polanski's Fearless Vampire Killers. Has anyone here ever seen that one?
While I do really enjoy the Hammer films and Christopher Lee's portrayal, as movies go I really never felt they were that good. They seem to lose steam as the movie progresses and then come to an abrupt end leaving the viewer feeling kind of cheated.
Quote from: Nicole on January 16, 2008, 03:08:08 AM
One of these days, I also want to get around to watching Polanski's Fearless Vampire Killers. Has anyone here ever seen that one?
I watched it and really hated it. It is a lot of slapstick, but it just came across to me as poorly executed slapstick. I know that a lot of people like the film, and I'm probably in the minority on this one, but I thought it was just plain horrible.
Bela Lugosi was the greatest Dracula, but it wasn't the greatest film in my opinion. "Vampyr - Der Traum des Allan Grey" (1932) is probably the most powerfully compelling vampire film that I've ever seen, followed closely by the original Nosferatu. Oddly enough, I am not a fan of silent films.
Well it's good to hear that I'm not the only one that couldn't stand fearless Vampire Killers. I've tried a couple of times and I can't get more than about 20 minutes. It's terrible!!
I also can't stand Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Of course the Dracula with Lugosi is THE classic but I do prefer Christopher Lee as Dracula. Horror of Dracula is probably my all time favorite. The sequels aren't nearly as good. I enjoy both Nosferatu's. Vampyr is really impressive.
The Spanish version of the original is a superior film to the Lugosi version but Lugosi makes a better Drac than Villarias.
On a side note, the strangest version I've ever seen is DEAFULA from '75 which was entirely in sign language! Has anyone else here ever seen that one?
Quote from: ZOMBOPHOTO on January 16, 2008, 10:05:44 AM
The Spanish version of the original is a superior film to the Lugosi version but Lugosi makes a better Drac than Villarias.
My thoughts exactly. No question that the Spanish version is a superior film other than Villarias. If only Lugosi could have done both.
The Vampire Happening.
Ok, I'm kidding, I saw "Horror of Dracula" as a kid and it scared the living hell out of me, so that has always personified Vampires for me.
I'm a fan of Horror of Dracula and the Nosferatu films (both of them) as well. Of course the original Lugosi film is iconic and has a place among the alltime greats. I enjoyed El Vampiro, the 1957 Mexican vampire film with German Robles as the vampire a great deal. It is a very passionate movie and compelling in every way. It's worked it's way into my top 5.
Haven't seen El Vampiro, at least I don't think I have. I'll have to look for it.
The idea of "The Fearless Vampire Killers" is that it's a film trying to be as "wrong" as possible. Everything you expect will happen (or should happen) happens wrong, or backwards. This continues until the conclusion, and never lets up. It's not merely trying to be a comedy, it's trying to be the antithesis of what it's spoofing. In fact, it's designed to confound and and frustrate a certain percentage of the audience. Very strange movie!
Neon-
Thanks for bringing up FEARLESS VAMPIRE...as a kid, I saw this film on its original release at a historic "grand" theater, and it left an indelibe impression. Being a kid, the Sharon Tate/bubble bath/snow/blood scene blew my mind BIGTIME (I was 6 or 7). Very frightening cinema for me, and Tate's untimely death and its surrounding circumstances made this film all the more surreal seeming.
Oddly, as time has passed, FVK has become one of those Beloved Holiday Films for me...my IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE in many ways. I just find the scenery, costumes, sets, snow, sleighs...very comforting at this time of year.
FEARLESS VAMPIRE KILLERS...Yea! ;D
I'd have to vote for Lugosi's Dracula. He is the ICON of what vampires are!
Also, not the greatest, but for fun vampire movies I enjoyed Fright Night and The Lost Boys.
BK
Yeah, Monster Bob, I know what you mean. There is a REALLY STRANGE relaxing quality to FVK, in certain ways. I like the sets in the beginning, the inn, the snow, the matte paintings, the real castle location. There's just this sort of expensive, cozy feeling to the film.
Quote from: ZOMBOPHOTO on January 16, 2008, 10:05:44 AM
I also can't stand Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Not a big fan of this version either.
Quote from: ZOMBOPHOTO on January 16, 2008, 10:05:44 AM
The Spanish version of the original is a superior film to the Lugosi version but Lugosi makes a better Drac than Villarias.
I have to disagree. Although there are some choices in direction that are really quite good, and are unique to the spanish version, I don't think it's really superior in any way. Almost every performance in the Browning version is superior. I would appreciate it if someone for once would really explain why they think the Spanish version is better.
For modern Vampire movies, although Blade is entertaining, it doesn't hold a candle to Nightwatch IMO.
"Blood And Donuts" >>>>>>>>all other vampire films.. :)
I also like "Lips Of Blood" though.
What is 'better' about the Spainish version of DRACULA (when compared to the English version) is the utilization of the sets and camerawork- that is, the cinematography. In the Lugosi version, the fabulous sets seem wasted; that, and the film itself is too 'stagey' or play-like.
Yes, the camera is used more. There's more angles, more cuts, more little effects and gags. Had only the Lugosi version been made this way...the Spanish language version's crew was working a lot harder.
Quote from: poseablemonster on January 16, 2008, 09:48:53 AM
I watched it and really hated it. It is a lot of slapstick, but it just came across to me as poorly executed slapstick. I know that a lot of people like the film, and I'm probably in the minority on this one, but I thought it was just plain horrible.
Put me down as another non-fan of Fearless Vampire Killers. Just a SnoozeFest IMO. Another one that people seem to like or love that I just don't get is Nosferatu. Just looks cartoony top me. Sorry.
Rob
Quote from: neonnoodle on January 16, 2008, 03:03:53 PM
There's just this sort of expensive, cozy feeling to the film.
That about sums up my feelings toward FVK. It's not really exciting, suspenseful, dramatic or funny. It's just sort of comfortable. A nice, fluffy pillow of a horror movie.
I like listening to the soundtrack during the winter, especially when it's snowing.
Once, I was driving at night in treacherous weather. Snow was bellowing. Streets were iced over. Cars were sliding around. My driver's side door lock was frozen. I had to hold the door shut to keep it from flying open. So there I was, my right hand on the wheel, left hand holding the door shut, snow wiping out visibility, trying not to skid off the road. And on my CD player - the Fearless Vampire Killers. When I hear the theme, I think of that night first, the movie second.
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g107/backlotcharlie/sharontate.jpg)
OK, Sharon can stay with me......................... :o
Not strictly a vampire movie, but I love Daughters of Darkness, with the luminous Delphine Seyrig.
I think Lugosi gives the definitive vampire performance, but the middle of the movie really sags. I enjoy watching Son of... and Dracula's Daughter a lot more these days.
MDG
Ok Monster Bob now THAT I understand!! ;D
I think that the Spanish Dracula is a much better production for the reasons stated above. It's just a better made film. I still love the American version. It's like how a lot of Bond fans say that if On Her Majesty's Secret Service had starred Sean Connery it would be the best Bond film hands down.
Good comparison. I liked On Her Majesty's Secret Service also, and I even liked George Lazenby in it, but it would have been even better with Connery.
This isn't a commentary or a judgement of anyone's appreciation for FVK.... but I personally have a problem with any work of Roman Polanski. Not because he isn't a fine director... certainly he is... but that he is a convicted child predator who fled the country to avoid prison after pleading guilty to having sex with a 13 year old. I won't watch, buy, or have anything to do with anything he has done.
Bela's always going to be my favorite vampire, and in my book the best Count ever... so I guess I have to state the '31 Dracula is number one. It's certainly the most well-known and influential, and there'll never be another Lugosi. So maybe I should say, the movie with the greatest vampire has to be that film.
But I also really enjoy Nosferatu... at least once a month!
Also, I love the full (uncut) version of the TV movie Salem's Lot. It's in my top three for vampire films.
Mike C.
I like Salem's Lot, too. I'm about due to watch that one again.
My favourites are: Nosferatu (1922), Bela Lugosi's Dracula, Horror of Dracula, Twins of Evil, Vampire Circus, The vampire lovers, Le frisson des vampires, Slaughter of the vampires, Salem's Lot (1979), Lemora Lady Dracula a Childs tale of the supernatural, El mundo de los Vampiros, Grave of the vampire, Dark Shadows, Count Yorga Vampire, Malenka la sobrina del Vampiro, La Note dei diavoli, The Vampire and the ballerina, Nocturna and the Little Vampire Tv Serie (1986). I love Vampire films. There ar a lot of cool Euro Horror movies too very recommended :)
For me it is Horror of Dracula. Salem's Lot is up there and also Near Dark.
Chuck
It's a tough call, but I think HORROR OF DRACULA and NOSFERATU tie for #1, and the Lugosi version lurks in the shadows; but of course Lugosi is the king of the screen Draculas; He is Dracula- bigger than the role.
As far as Pulanski and FVK goes, I remember the film from perspective of the frightened (and innocent) eyes of a six year old boy. Even in watching it now, I rarely think of Pulanski even being in it. I get caught up in the story and the very surreal acting/slow boil comedy. Oh, and that snowy mountain coziness it has. Comedy ain't easy, and the comedy in this flick is like, weird...and European...with a twist of Peter Sellers or something.
While I certainly don't condone the behavior that RP is accused of, I can't let it get in the way of my nostaglic memory of VAMPIRE KILLERS. I do enjoy the film. I do like Sharon Tate. And I feel as much pity for for Pulanski as anything when watching this film. After going through the whole Manson thing, I gotta think his head is pretty screwed up to this day, and capable of a lot of freaky stuff. Again, I'm certainly not condoning what he is charged for, or his running, or whatever. Just an interesting film for me. I'm betting if I really knew half the sh*t James Whale did on weekends, I would never watch FRANKENSTEIN again, either... ;D
Quote from: Monster Bob on January 18, 2008, 04:37:57 PM
It's a tough call, but I think HORROR OF DRACULA and NOSFERATU tie for #1, and the Lugosi version lurks in the shadows; but of course Lugosi is the king of the screen Draculas; He is Dracula- bigger than the role.
As far as Pulanski and FVK goes, I remember the film from perspective of the frightened (and innocent) eyes of a six year old boy. Even in watching it now, I rarely think of Pulanski even being in it. I get caught up in the story and the very surreal acting/slow boil comedy. Oh, and that snowy mountain coziness it has. Comedy ain't easy, and the comedy in this flick is like, weird...and European...with a twist of Peter Sellers or something.
While I certainly don't condone the behavior that RP is accused of, I can't let it get in the way of my nostaglic memory of VAMPIRE KILLERS. I do enjoy the film. I do like Sharon Tate. And I feel as much pity for for Pulanski as anything when watching this film. After going through the whole Manson thing, I gotta think his head is pretty screwed up to this day, and capable of a lot of freaky stuff. Again, I'm certainly not condoning what he is charged for, or his running, or whatever. Just an interesting film for me. I'm betting if I really knew half the sh*t James Whale did on weekends, I would never watch FRANKENSTEIN again, either... ;D
I understand totally...
He wasn't just charged though, he plead guilty and then fled.
Quote from: Monster Bob on January 18, 2008, 04:37:57 PM
I'm betting if I really knew half the sh*t James Whale did on weekends, I would never watch FRANKENSTEIN again, either... ;D
Good point, Bob...I do NOT want to know! ;)
I find it cool that there are a lot of you here that like "Salem's Lot". I don't scare easily, but the first time I saw that movie, I felt my hair grow! I was about 7 at the time. I noticed that nobody mentioned "Lost Boys". What's up with that? Nobody mentioned "Queen Of The Damned" either.
Does anyone here like The Blood Drinkers? It's a 60s Philippine movie with some sophisticated elements for its day.
And how about Deathdream? It's sort of a vampire movie. The main character is a zombie/vampire in a Monkey's Paw-type scenario. It's a very creepy, sad, powerful low-budget 70s film.
I haven't seen those Raymond, but I can recommend Bandh Darwaza, which is a Bollywood vampire/Dracula tale that is alternately frightening and hilarious.
FEARLESS VAMPIRE KILLERS: a piss, which I think really succeeds at it's own goals.
(Though I hear you, Bobby; then again, have you heard the stuff about Spencer Tracy that's come out?)
BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA: hardly.
(I can forgive filmmakers who miss getting the externals just right; I have a real problem with those who don't "get" the Core of a story. This one's like GREYSTOKE, in that.)
As far as "this film makes me feel what it would be like, if there really WERE such creatures?"
Herzog's NOSFERATU.
Best,
-Craig W.
Where's the love for Zandor Vorkov in DRACULA VS. FRANKENSTEIN? :D
I AM KNOWN AS THE COUNT OF DARKNESS.....LORD OF THE MANOR OF CORPATHIA. TURN HERE.
GET OUT OF THE CARRRR, DOCTOR BEAUMONT.
For me it's easily "Brides of Dracula." There are so many great moments in this movie. I never get tired of it. "Nosferatu" is a favorite of mine as well, and both the 1931 Universal Dracula's have their moments, but as entire movies, they don't really hold up.
I watched Vampire Lovers last night, and I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised, much better that the dreck I was expecting. But when the description is a lesbian vampire terrorizes a town's young women, you tend not to expect much (except for some gratuitous nudity which there was extremely little of). Certainly not on list as one of the best but certainly a decent outing by Hammer, and Cushing even had a bit role in which he showed up at the end to stake the bloodsucking monster. And really isn't that how most vampire movies should end: Peter Cushing shows up out of nowhere and administers the coup-de-cras, roll credits.
I also really like "Cronos" which is one of the most unique vampire movies out there.
The three greatest vampire movies of all time, in my opinion, are all strangely made for television. Two of them for the BBC! They are:
1) Ultraviolet (1998): Not to be confused with the Mila Jovovich film. This is a six part miniseries on the BBC that is the finest piece of vampire writing I have seen. It was a revelation for me when I first saw it, and I watch it at least two times a year. The list of great scenes in this series in unequaled. My favorite involves a vampire killer trapped in a locked warehouse with no means of escape, and four time-locked vampire coffins counting down the seconds until they open. There is a scene late in the series where a priest has an extended interrogation with a vampire that is both brilliant in what is said, and more so in what is left unsaid. Every one of the actors involved is superb, and one has since gone on to become a star (Jack Davenport, of Coupling and Pirates of the Carribean fame). He (Davenport) has a great scene in the fifth episode where he realizes he is going to have to kill someone he truly deeply loves. It is heartbreaking because it involves a character h has been trying to keep from harm the entire series. The final scene of the last episode is a classic, and the final line is like one final macabre twist of the knife. The writer director of the series, Joe Ahearne, has since gone on to direct some of the finest episodes of the new Dr. Who series. (incidentally, for those of you don't believe me, the entire series can be watched on Youtube.)
2) Count Dracula-- with Louis Jourdan. (1978). The greatest vampire story ever written given its most faithful adaptation yet. There are changes to be sure, but they are inevitable. But the sleeping Dracula turning and smiling at the about-to-strike Jonathon still gives me chills to this day. Bloody brilliant
3) Salem's Lot-- (1978)-- Wow... this one still packs a wallop. I am amazed by how well this still stands up. The vampire in the rocking chair haunted my dreams as a kid, and his taunt of "I''ll watch you sleep like the dead, teacher" almost made me faint when I was a five.
4) Brides of Dracula (1961). THE BEST IN THE ENTIRE HAMMER SERIES.I love this film. David Peel ordering his mother to come down the stairs is one of the finest bits of acting in Hammer ever (and it intentionally or unitentionally evokes the great ending of Hitchcock's "Notorious")
5) Dracula (1931). "To die-- to be truly dead-- that must be glorious!" Bela's reading of that line belongs on the list of the top ten movie lines of all time. It is greater by far than the more famous "Children of the night" and sums up the lonliness of the undead in ten words.
The next fiive: Horror of Dracula, Nosferatu ('22), Nosferatu ('79), Shadow of the Vampire (with its great performance by Willem Dafoe), Last Man on Earth ('58).
Beast witches,
Matt Jaycox
UMA medic
Oh, I totally forgot about "Ultraviolet"! I agree, I loved that show as well.
Am I the only one who liked the remake of "Salem's Lot" better than the original? (Probably I'm guessing. I also liked the tv version of "The Shining" better too....)
Quote from: raycastile on January 19, 2008, 03:12:57 AM
And how about Deathdream? It's sort of a vampire movie. The main character is a zombie/vampire in a Monkey's Paw-type scenario. It's a very creepy, sad, powerful low-budget 70s film.
I like Deathdream a lot, but don't really associate it w/ vampires. Very nice low-budget job by Bob Clark.
I saw it last summer paired with Joe Dante's "Homecoming," which made for a political/horror double-feature.
MDG
Matt, I've never seen ULTRAVIOLET, but your description makes me want to.
Of classic vampire movies, which one do you all think are the worst?
I think THE VAMPIRE BAT is WAAAAAY overrated ( it's not truly a vampire film), and RETURN OF THE VAMPIRE asomething of a minor letdown, in spite of Lugosi.
The Scooby-Doo ending on Mark of the Vampire is a real deal breaker. It's great up until the climax.
"Scooby_do ending"--- perfect description! LOL!
I completely agree with your assessment.
Quote from: raycastile on January 21, 2008, 01:06:46 AM
The Scooby-Doo ending on Mark of the Vampire is a real deal breaker. It's great up until the climax.
Yes, and they would have gotten away with it if it weren't for you meddling kids...
Worst Vampire film?
"Taste the Blood Of Dracula." (I consider all of the Christopher Lee films to be in the classic mould, and so I will include it here. Even though it was made in 1969).
I cannot get into this movie, despite multiple viewings. It has enjoyed a critical reappraisal in recent years, with some heaping undue praise on the film. It is overlong, pretentious, drags, and has the misfortune of having the stupefyingly dull Ralph Bates in a pivotal role. The man can't even play a licentious dandy well! One would think... If he were born to play only one role, you would think that would be the role for Bates... but no, he effs that one up as well. The ending has never made any sense to me.
The lauding of "Taste" is especially strange, as it appears that the same people who are in a rush to praise this pic, are the same ones who sneer at the quite fine "Dracula Has Risen from the Grave," which I consider to be the best of Chris Lee sequels.
Anyone else find this one dull?
Beast witches,
Matt Jaycox
UMA medic
Quote from: raycastile on January 19, 2008, 03:12:57 AM
Does anyone here like The Blood Drinkers? It's a 60s Philippine movie with some sophisticated elements for its day.
I just watched this last night, and enjoyed it very much. A lot more mood and production values than I would've expected from a 60s Filipino movie.
MDG
I don't know Matt I may suggest Satanic Rites is worse.
"Scars of Dracula" is another stinker in that series. "Taste" has some good moments, but I agree the ending is kinda weak.
George
Quote from: mjaycox on January 20, 2008, 01:55:34 AM
"To die-- to be truly dead-- that must be glorious!" Bela's reading of that line belongs on the list of the top ten movie lines of all time. It is greater by far than the more famous "Children of the night" and sums up the loneliness of the undead in ten words.
Agreed Matt 100%! One of the best lines ever! It's right next to my other all time favorite line "We Belong Dead" (BOF 1935). Man, I'm morbid.
BTW, Mr. Monster Bob Morris. My mind is still stuck a few pages back with that pic of Sharon Tate in the bathtub. Yowza! She was fine! Now what were we talking about again? ;D
I never really liked "Taste the Blood of Dracula" either...and when I saw "Risen from the Grave," I thought it was solidly wonderful. Best story of all the sequels.
I kinda like "Taste The Blood of Dracula". It's a pretty bad movie, but like most Hammer films, it has it's interesting moments. I think there's a scene toward the beginning where a horse takes a poop. Can you say that about any other Vampire film? ;D
I just finished watching the Mexican classics El Vampiro and the sequel El Ataúd del Vampiro, and loved them both. Great movies, very visual. German Robles made a great Vampire, and I really grew to like the Abel Salazar - hero character, too. He was also good in The Curse of the Crying Woman.
I gotta say I just really like Son Of Dracula. Lon Chaney brought a primal energy and menace to the role. Great set designs, good SFX, great music, and a great supporting cast.
I'm moving into a Nosferatu phase, now. I feel as though I'm going backwards. After this, I'm just gonna turn off the TV & finish reading the Book Of Nod. :-\
THE BEST VAMPYRE MOVIE:
1) NOSFERATU
2) SALEM'S LOT.
NOSFERATU.. IT'S FANTASTIC!!!!!! A MOVIE WITHOUT SOUND.. THE IMAGES.. THE ATMOSPHERE... ORLOK... IT'S GREAT!!!!
AND THE FX... IT'S A MOVIE OF 1922!!!!
NO WORDS... IT'S AMAZING.... FIRST IN MY BOOKLIST: NOSFERATU.
SALEM'S LOT.. ITS GREAT.. THE VAMPYRES WITH THE YELLOW EYES... THE BOY IN THE WINDOW...
BARLOW... (A COPY OF NOSFERATU)---- GREAT! ;D
Excellent thread--don't mind if I jump right in...
If I had to name just one, it would be Browning's DRACULA because of the Lugosi leer and that presence; Bela was one of a kind. The others I really dig: BRIDES OF DRACULA creeped me out when I was about 9; saw it on Bob Wilkins' CREATURE FEATURES back around '73...especially the scene where Peter Cushing is watching the vampire girl rising from the grave, and the finale. DRACULA VS. FRANKENSTEIN has a special place in my heart and in my collection. But I also enjoy THE NIGHT STALKER, and "The Vampire" episode from the sadly short-lived TV series (this was the first time I remember rooting for the good guy in a vampire story). Currently my favorite vampire movies are all by Mario Bava: BLACK SUNDAY, BLACK SABBATH ("The Wurdulak" segment), and PLANET OF THE VAMPIRES.
I really did like "The Night Stalker." It's very engrossing and scary as heck! The performers were all great, too. Solid TV movie...
Horror of Dracula...for Cushing, for Lee and for that ending. The ending makes the entire film for me.
I've said it before and it bears repeating...Horror of Dracula...THE most exciting ending in a vampire film. PERIOD.
Dracula running from Van Helsing...RUNNING from the mortal who has the knowledge and the ability to destroy him....
Peter Cushing chasing down Dracula...his 'London Fog' coat flowing...his scarf billowing.... the James Bernard Music propelling the action onward...
It's all coming back to me...
Dracula tries to make an escape to the cellars, but is caught seconds before vanishing. He MUST kill Van Helsing NOW, if not, Van Helsing will surely go down the trapdoor when he is sleeping the sleep of the undead, and destroy him with ease.
The battle is on...Van Helsing ducks a hastily thrown candelabra, and suddenly finds himself face to face with the vampire Lord!
Dracula rushes to Van Helsing and lunges at him like an animal. Van Helsing struggles and tries to break away from the Vampire, but Dracula's grip is like iron. Van Helsing quickly feels himself weaken and his legs start to falter. Dracula pushes Van Helsing back onto a low table and continues to slowly choke the life from him. Van Helsing gasps, chokes, then surrenders to unconsciousness.
Dracula rises, his fangs gleaming in triumph. A few wicked seconds later and Dracula starts to descend towards the prone body of Van Helsing again, this time with the intention of triumphantly drinking Van Helsing's blood. Inches away from Dracula's curse, the brave vampire killer's eyes flutter open and he reacts to the proximity of the foul creature, pushing away with all his strength.
Dracula, expecting a weakened foe is caught off guard and flung back against the fireplace.
The next few moments are tense as Dracula, smiling a grim smile starts to advance again. Van Helsing backs away rubbing his neck, to make sure he was not bitten. There is a beat of an exchange, Dracula silently saying, "You cannot beat me, and you KNOW you cannot beat me. Your death is only a matter of time."
Then by the grace of God, Van Helsing sees the heavy curtains and remembers exactly what time of day it is.
He leaps back on the massive table and quickly runs the length of it to avoid Dracula's grasp. He leaps from the table's edge and catching the curtain, pulls it down to allow the sunlight to pour into the room!!
When Van Helsing runs onto the table and leaps toward the curtains, Dracula follows him for a split second with his head...watching where Van Helsing is running.
Dracula must be thinking. "What's he doing...? Uh-OH!!!"
Only then does he attempt to move out of the way...
I've always thought that in the heat of battle the old Vivode lost track of the big picture...the bright sunlight outside.
Reportedly, it was Cushing himself who came up with the dramatic run across the table and leap to the curtains...as well as the two candlesticks instead of simply pulling out another cross from his coat.
Peter "Props" Cushing joked that he sometimes felt like a crucifix salesman with so many crosses on his person, and that the candlestick improvisation was a much more dramatic way to go.
He was right.
And Lee's Dracula.... well it's a bad day in Klausenburg as he tries to fight off the repelling effects of the makeshift cross...the power of goodness and Van Helsing's faith pushing him back.... back. He instinctively uses his hand to hold himself up but exposed to the sunlight, it begins to crumble...pain pain...
The cross pushing him back, back, back... until he falls INTO THE SUNLIGHT.... FACE UP!! Slowly he flakes away to ashes, his screams of pain becoming gurgles as his body returns to the earth.
Van Helsing watches the destruction of Dracula with a mixture of disgust and pity, and when it's all over, he walks slowly towards the table letting the glorious sunlight cover him and thanking God for his blessing.
If this all seems a little one sided, remember that the vampire is EXTREMELY powerful and possesses great strength and abilities. It MUST have several weaknesses to counter its abilities and thank goodness that we will always have the heroic Vampire Slayers to battle back the forces of darkness.
I feel the same way about Karl Kolchak and that truly nasty vampire Janos Skorzney.
Yes, indeed, Skorzeny as portrayed by Barry Atwater, is great. It's funny, but before I ever saw THE NIGHT STALKER, I had seen Atwater in THE NIGHT GALLERY film ("The Cemetery"--still one of my favorite vignettes ever). When he appeared as Skorzeny I thought, "wait, I know that guy." But it wasn't until later that I put it together. Too bad they couldn't have expanded "The Cemetery" into a full picture; Roddy McDowall and Ozzie Davis were terrific; the other two segments are rather forgetable...
And who can forget Barry Atwater as a green-skinned Dracula in the little promotional short for the Count Dracula society (leading the vampire oath) that was played before Dracula AD 1972?
"So help me Christopher Lee...."
Now...you are once of us!!!!!
Wow, every movie listed is great in one way or another. But I must say I'm rather fond of
Jack Palance as Dracula. There was just some thing about his performance that sent a shiver down my spine. Also Christopher Lee in Bram Stoker's Count Dracula '71 is really good.
But the one I can sit and watch over and over is The Night Stalker. It's not as scary or gory as some, but it sure is a lot of fun.
Dale
I can't seem to make up my mind as there are so many vampire movies I like.
Obviously all the different incarnations of Dracula,with Christopher Lee,Bela Lugosi,Frank Langella,
Jack Palance,etc.are favourites.Then there are Salem's Lot,Blade,Fright Night and too many more to choose from.I also liked The Night Stalker series.
The greatest vampire film of all time is also my favorite film of all time...
Dracula with Bela Lugosi. A film that relied on acting and story rather that special effects. For whatever reason it had no soundtrack except for Swan Lake at the beginning, it added to the mood of the film. Universals' first talking horror film has my vote.
Universal Steve, you truly are the most loyal soldier of the UNIVERSAL Monster Army. I salute you!
FRIGHT NIGHT holds a special place in my heart as the 1st R rated movie I attended without getting someone older to buy my ticket. LOST BOYS may be my favorite though, due to the friends I saw it with as much as the movie itself. It was LOST BOYS that inspired me to start seeking out all the vampire movies and books I could find (I was already hooked on lycanthropes, so to speak).
That was ATWATER in that promotional film, as the green-skinned vampire?
Ah, aha! I have wondered who the heck that was for a while, thanks for that nice little neck-bite of information !
You see, when you go to the store and find the shelves devoid of vampire films, or figure that there's far less of them than there ought to be, and you think, "Jeez, who is buying all the vampire films around here? I can't hardly get none for myself!" Well, you need look no further than this thread!
ALL the movies listed are great. Vampires come in many great flavors.
I gotta' go with DRACULA '31 also. Lugosi and Browning set the bar that has yet to be matched, never mind surpassed, IMHO. I do believe the earlier Hammer series, say HOD through DHRFTG, come relatively close and are actually "scarier". But I'd like to mention one of my favorite non-Dracula vampire movies, the overlooked and underrated INNOCENT BLOOD from 1992, starring the beautiful French actress Anne Parillaud and blending the horror-humor-mob genres seamlessly! How could anyone not absolutely love Robert Loggia's dead on performance as Pittsburgh's vampire-mafia boss?!? He's hilarious, terrifying and extremely convincing all at once! Not to mention Don Rickle's dousy of a demise, appearances by Tony Sirico(The Soprano's), Chazz Palminteri, and cameos by Tom Savini, Frank Oz, Sam Raimi, Linnea Quigley, Dario Argento, and Uncle Forry himself! Yessiree, its a winner folks!!!
I would have to nominate both Universal '31 Draculas...
I know it's "in" to say the Spanish version was a novelty, but I have to say some of the setups in it are better than the Browning setups and Lupita Tovar was a knockout and really added a sensuality to her part.
Quote from: monsterphile on January 16, 2008, 12:01:11 AM
I, too, like the original NIGHT STALKER telefilm. Janos Skorzeny, played by Barry Atwater, had a menace like Christopher Lee's Dracula. Although Lugosi's Drac is iconic for the character, I never thought he was scary per se. Despite the naysaying, I really like BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA and the original SALEMS LOT with the Nosferatu-like Kurt Barlow. Sorry I couldn't give just one favorite. It's just never that easy.
Rob
Agreed 100%
1931 Dracula-both versions.
I grew up watching the Spanish version, but love them both.
I have always had a fondness for the Return of Dracula here was a creature who survived by his wits and ruthlessness towards others, he was cold and aloof yet capable of charm if the situation called for it. My all time favorite is the 31 Dracula with the Swan lake opening, why because this is so iconic from the performances to the script. Also if I were given a chance to be present back at the filming I would choose the study scene, This was DRACULA for me and will always remain so in my mind for it captured the right mood. This one scene had it all the brides Renfield and of course the Count in all his villainy how could it have been bettered.
The two best vampires in my book are Bela Lugosi as Dracula and Jonathan Frid as Barnabas Collins in Dark Shadows. The latter, although only in one film (that didn't do full justice to his character,) defined the reluctant vampire. The former embodied what it means to be "king of the vampires."
As for the best vampire movie, I haven't found one that truly deserves the title. Browning's Dracula has atmosphere and great actors, but some parts could have been changed up a bit. Hammer's Horror of Dracula is an excellent film, but it could have borrowed some of Browning's atmosphere. It also could have been a bit longer, as some parts go by a little quickly. Dracula's Daughter is a great vampire flick, and doesn't seem to get the attention it deserves. It was directed better than Dracula was, but it still had its flaws. Son of Dracula has the atmosphere, but could have been helped by some casting changes. Return of the Vampire does justice to Lugosi and works as an unofficial sequel to Dracula, but it would have been better had it lost the werewolf and took out the WWII climax. House of Dark Shadows has great pacing, great atmosphere and music, but could have used more character development, especially for the main character, Barnabas.
I could go on and on, as vampire films are my favorite kind. ;D However, I can always think of a way I would change them up a bit. The actors playing the vampires, however, I wouldn't change at all, especially Lugosi and Frid. Lee, while definitely great as Dracula, could have borrowed some warmth and charm from Lugosi. It's hard for me to make a connection to him when he plays Dracula, and I don't really "full-out" root for him like I do for Lugosi or Frid, but I can still enjoy his characterization and as such, I wouldn't have asked him to play the Count differently had I directed any of the films he was in.
dracula with Bela Logsi
B L's Dracula and Nosferatu are all time classics. I'm a big fan of Near Dark ("Let's put it this way: I fought for the South. We lost." - Classic!) and Cronos is a nice take on Vampirism.
I'll go with NOSFERATU, simply beacuse 80+ years onwards, it still has the ability to give me the creeps..
Horror of Dracula (1958) made me sleep with the lights on for a while !!
Quote from: aura of foreboding on August 11, 2008, 01:10:26 AM
The two best vampires in my book are Bela Lugosi as Dracula and Jonathan Frid as Barnabas Collins in Dark Shadows. The actors playing the vampires, however, I wouldn't change at all, especially Lugosi and Frid.
Just can't argue with this one's logic, as I have got to agree. Favorite movie vampire: Lagosi. Favorite TV vampire: Frid.
These are all great films, but the 1931 Dracula is the king of the vampire films.
Nosferatu 1922
Dracula 1931
Dracula's Daughter 1936
Son of Dracula 1940s
Horror of Dracula 1959
Dracula Prince of Darkness 1962
Dracula 1979
Nosferatu 1979
Bram Stoker's Dracula 1992
Van Helsing 2004
So many great vampire films to choose from...
Dracula (1931)
Nosferatu (1922)
Salem's Lot
Count Yorga, Vampire
Return of Count Yorga
Lust for a Vampire
and so on and so forth. But one vampire movie stands out above all the rest for me. And that one is...
Lemora, A Child's Tale of the Supernatural
Just so atmospheric and nightmare-like, plus the vampire winsin the end! :)
There are so very many to choose from but I have to go with Hammer and Horror of Dracula. After wtching this modern stuff: 30 DAYS OF NIGHT and TRUE BLOOD I find a have a longing for Lee's work.
Quote from: raycastile on January 19, 2008, 03:12:57 AM
Does anyone here like The Blood Drinkers? It's a 60s Philippine movie with some sophisticated elements for its day.
And how about Deathdream? It's sort of a vampire movie. The main character is a zombie/vampire in a Monkey's Paw-type scenario. It's a very creepy, sad, powerful low-budget 70s film.
I love The Blood Drinkers. Last year I think I considered it my favorite movie for the season. Will have to check out Deathdream.
1. Return of the Vampire (Lugosi)
2. Horror of Dracula
3. Nosferatu the Vampyre
4. Dracula
5. Nosferatu
6. Dracula's Daughter
7. Abbot and Costello Meet Frankenstein
8. The Blood Drinkers
9. Bram Stoker's Dracula
10. The Hunger
Salem's Lot did me in as a kid. I wouldnt go near a window for weeks! The book gave me the creeps when I finally read it 10 years ago.
1. Salem's Lot
2. Dracula (1931)
3. Satanic Rites of Dracula
4. Legend of the Seven Golden Vampires
5. Horror Of Dracula
6. Bram Stoker's Dracula
7. Nosferatu (original)
8. Vampyr
9. Countess Dracula
10. Near Dark
I forgot Mark of the Vampire and Salem's Lot. They were both great ones as well. I also enjoy Bordello of Blood. It isn't a great film, but it is a fun vamp film. (strictly for guys though, because it is basically a soft core porn film)
Salems Lot (the full length 70s TV version.) MAAARK, Let me iiin. :o
Dusk to Dawn
John Carpenters Vampires
Fright Night
Interview with a Vampire
Night Stalker
Nosferatu
Original Dracula
Also kinda like The short live Kindred series.
Depends upon mood whether I want atmosphere or good old violent blood sucking but Salems Lot is always number 1.
Great lists here folks. I forgot the Jack Palance Dracula....really enjoyed that one. Also the Night Stalker as well as Bela's '31 are favorites. I will add one more to the list that my wife and I really enjoyed, though it was a tv show and the vampire was theme was in an episode from The X Files called Bad Blood (1998). Here is a summary taken from IMDb:
The X-Files was most famously known as being a dark and scary television show. What casual observers of the show don't know is that the X-Files had an assortment of humorous episodes sprinkled in this monster-heavy series. These "humorous" episodes do not disappoint either. Bad Blood is arguably the best of this bunch. When Mulder kills a teenage boy who he mistakenly believed to be a vampire, he and Scully must explain their actions to Skinner, their superior. What ensues is a hilarious "he said/she said" account from Mulder and Scully, each explaining his/her version of the transpired events. You won't stop laughing after seeing Mulder and Scully give completely different "versions" of the exact same event. As Mulder tells Skinner at the end of the episode, "That is... essentially... exactly the way it happened." If you're ready for a light-hearted episode with plenty of dark humor, Bad Blood is a must-see.
The 1977 BBC adaption of Count Dracula with Louis Jourdan playing Dracula is one of my all time favourites.it was split into two part,so the BBC could show it as a serial.It was very slow compared to the other dracula movies,but it drew people in with it's constant steady pace.
My top three:
- Dracula ('31)
- Salem's Lot (full length)
- 30 Days of Night
Also love the Hammer Draculas, 70's european vampires, Count Yorga,...ect...
Dracula (1932)