Dracula (1931) Dir: Tod Browning
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Few adaptations, of any book, let alone that of Bram Stoker's iconic horror, have ever received the renown of Tod Browning's 1931 classic. I love the story of Count Dracula - it's a brilliant and timeless piece of horror, which has rightly spawned a myriad of recreations, homages and adaptations. It felt only right to watch the film that many call its best on-screen depiction.
It was sinister, suspenseful and magnificently atmospheric. The simple, yet mightily effective way in which Browning framed and portrayed the story was marvellous. Some of the shots used felt very ahead of their time. For such an early and seemingly basic film, it was surprisingly visually stunning.
Most of the narrative is pretty faithful to the novel, which I for one was grateful for - I'm personally not a fan of the romantic storyline between the Count and Mina, which is often seen in more modern adaptations, such as Francis Ford Coppola's 1992 film. This earlier version felt far more loyal to Stoker's work.
What is a shame is the way the film suddenly and abruptly ends, without providing a proper conclusion, or resolving the main story arcs. It's really bewildering to see, as it gives the impression that the film is missing at least ten minutes of footage.
From my brief research, it seems that the ending, or at least an epilogue scene, featuring a brief monologue, was all but lost, prior to the film's restoration, which is truly a shame. Thankfully, I knew the story, or else I would have been even more confused.
Bella Lugosi was imperious, threatening and intensely charismatic as the titular vampire. His screen presence was incredibly impressive, and his acting was exactly as dramatic and sinister as you would hope. It's so plain to see why he is often considered the quintessential Dracula actor.
Helen Chandler and David Manners provided fairly strong portrayals of the poor young lovers who suffer greatly at the hands of the count. I particularly enjoyed Chandler's final few scenes, in which she really came to life, so-to-speak.
Dwight Frye was excellent as the insane and maniacal disciple of the count. I thought his facial expressions and voice intonation was spot on, and I really enjoyed seeing the way Frye clearly revelled in his character's madness.
Edward Van Sloan was another strong performer, as the ingenious doctor, and stood out for me among the cast with some of the excellent delivery of his dialogue. I will also quickly mention both Herbert Bunston Frances Dade, who were also rather good, if in relatively smaller roles, by comparison.
Overall, while the lost ending was most definitely disappointing, I adored that much of the film that survived. It was mysterious, suspenseful and loyal to the book. I found myself enthralled in this black and white retelling, I only wish it was longer. It is undoubtedly a classic, and one that has clearly influenced cinema exponentially.
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