Bram Stoker's Dracula
Columbia Pictures
Rated: R
Of all the adaptations of Bram Stoker's classic gothic horror novel, Francis Ford Coppola's will most likely go down in history as the most faithful. Though Coppola's heavily eroticized version strays from the original book in many ways, adding a love story not present in the original novel, certain characters were omitted (no doubt due to time constraints and an already overcrowded cast), and the ending was altered somewhat, the core of the story remains intact and the film captures the spirit of the original work far better than any attempt previous or since.
As one who holds an undying belief that Dracula is the greatest novel ever written, it was with some trepidation that I recall going to see Coppola's film in the early 90s. Some odd casting choices, such as Keanu Reeves in the pivotal role of Jonathan Harker and Wynona Ryder as his bride-to-be, Mina, seemed out of place for a story that takes place in the early 1900s. Veteran actors such as Anthony Hopkins as Abraham Van Helsing and arguably the best performance in Gary Oldman's impressive career kept the film on solid ground, not to mention fine performances from Richard E. Grant as Dr. Jack Seward and a surprisingly delightful performance from singer Tom Waits as the lunatic Renfield. By the time the credits rolled, I could not but clap as my favorite novel had been brought to life in a way I had never dreamed.
And so it was with great anticipation that I purchased the blu-ray edition of Coppola's classic adaptation of Stoker's classic literary work. I was hoping for a pristine transfer, capable of bringing out the amazing cinematography, lavish costumes, and atmospheric sets, and a booming audio track that highlighted Wojciech Kilar's fantastic and haunting score. Alas, I was left with a somewhat sour taste in my mouth after I had finished watching this disc. Why? Read on and find out!