This new four-disc Blu-ray set from Australia’s Via Vision brings all the Universal Dracula films that have been loved for almost a century. From the first film that shot Bela Lugosi into horror history to the monster mash-up of House of Dracula, this is a great chance to reacquaint yourself with the crème of Universal’s vampire series.
The 1931 movie is based more on the stage play of the same name than the Bram Stoker novel, but despite the slower pace, it’s still a wonderful work of art. Lacking any music save for the introductory blast of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, it’s a moody and atmospheric masterpiece. Included as a bonus in an extras-packed disc is the Spanish version made simultaneously by George Melford. It’s arguably technically superior to Tod Browning’s vision, and is certainly a unique experience, but takes nothing away from the groundbreaking original.
The first bloodsucking sequel, Dracula’s Daughter (1936), is a masterclass in brooding atmosphere. Gloria Holden plays Countess Zaleska, the titular daughter of the recently slain vampire. She’s haunted by the family curse but struggles to go cold turkey. The Sapphic-tinged scene with Nan Grey is legendary and stunningly effective.
Next, Lon Chaney Jr becomes Son of Dracula (1943) and he makes for an impressive Count, complete with moustache. He’s broodingly moody and seductive, and Chaney is superb in a non-hairy role, and Evelyn Ankers is a welcome addition. Which brings us to the big mash-up. House of Dracula (1945). Fans of the Universal Monsters usually dismiss these creature team-ups, but they’re actually a lot of fun. Here, both Count Dracula (this time played by John Carradine) and Larry Talbot, the Wolfman (Chaney) are hoping Dr Franz Edlemann (Onslow Stevens) will cure them of their horrific affliction. When he discovers the frozen body of the Frankenstein monster (Glenn Strange), the doctor’s intentions become more sinister. His beautiful, hunchbacked lab assistant, played by Jane Adams, adds a tragic but sympathetic element and the local demanding justice for his slain brother is mesmerisingly played by the unforgettable Skelton Knaggs. It delivers action, horror, and fire-wielding villagers. It might lack the subtle atmosphere of the earlier films, but it makes up for it with character.
ViaVision’s set doesn’t offer much in the way of bonus material on the sequel movies (aside from boasting some entertaining, newly recorded commentaries), but the 1931 disc is packed, containing some readily available commentaries, alternate scores (as well as the Spanish version), and featurettes. They’re all fascinating and entertaining, even though they’ve been around a while.
Fans of classic cinema will love the packaging (the limited edition has a great lenticular slipcase) and there’s no excuse to re-familiarise yourself with the sequels. They’re much better than you’d remember!
