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
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