Dracula

source: Dracula

Dracula

Jack Palance is arguably the best of the Draculas'. He is the only actor that ever gave me shivers when I watched, and to me that is one of my main criteria.....that I be scared! Yet I was also fascinated with the way he moved, sort of silent and deadly (as any vampire should). The very fact that his facial structure fit his character (as to his place of origin) was only a bonus. How could we not help but be witness to the dark and sinister side of Jack. His eyes were testament to something deep and mysterious hidden within. And yet are we not drawn to that which is dark and dreadful, that which makes us draw our hand to our mouth as if to stifle the sudden gasp of fear, as if it could protect us from that beautiful doom? Yes...Jack Palance as Dracula is all that and more to me.

I've watched this version of Dracula many times and each time I watch it I'm reminded again of how good it is. This is one of my favorite Dracula movies ever. Made for television in the early 1970s, it's still capable of keeping me interested and still gives me a few chills. Great acting abounds in this film. Nigel Davenport makes a very convincing Van Helsing. The talented Fiona Lewis is excellent as Lucy. Jack Palance is wonderful as Dracula. He is probably the most physically imposing Dracula ever. His Dracula doesn't shrink away and hide from those that might oppose him like many portrayals of Dracula seem to do. Jack's Dracula will confront his enemies with vicious super-human strength, often destroying them in the confrontations. I really like this physically dominating Dracula. He's a great physical danger to others as well as a spiritual one! All in all, this is a great movie and I highly recommend it. 9 out of 10!