The mysterious Count Dracula (Bela Lugosi reprising his stage role) emigrates from his castle in Transylvania and arrives in Whitby, England. He turns his attentions to a young woman called Mina.

Goth was born here. There’s also a festival for the subculture which is held in Whitby as a tribute.

Tod Browning’s Dracula is, indeed, iconic. Beautiful direction and photography, amazing lighting (check out Drac’s eyes, for one, and also the use of light and considerable shade). The film also has a scope that really is something to behold.

Whilst this is horror heaven, there’s also a gallows humour that is intentional. A great example is Lugosi’s line about not drinking…wine.

Indeed, Lugosi’s performance is a triumph of both menace and camp. But it never feels silly or trivial. Lugosi’s place in the horror hall of fame was well deserved.

Bauhaus were inspired enough to write the song Bela Lugosi’s Dead after seeing this film and another building block of Goth was put into place.

I’m also glad to see that the Blu Ray of this classic pays the film the respect it fully deserves and is something to behold.

4.5 out of 5 stars