The Trail of Dracula (2017) Reviews

• An interesting and illuminating documentary

  Woodyanders2017-11-23

  This 63-minute documentary covers a lot of compelling ground on the enduring iconic horror character of Dracula. Naturally, the origins of vampire lore in Middle Europe and the writing of Bram Stoker's legendary book are covered in extensive detail. Ditto the making of the highly influential "Nosferatu" and the 1931 "Dracula" which made an instant horror icon out of Bela Lugosi. Speaking of horror icons, the Hammer films starring Christopher Lee as the prince of darkness are discussed at some length as well (Lee admits in an archival interview that the key reason he agreed to appear in sequels to "The Horror of Dracula" was because he wanted to keep people employed!). Moreover, we also learn about the Dracula-driven tourist industry in Romania, Stoker died poor, Lugosi acting in numerous stage revivals of "Dracula," and that vampires were initially perceived as ugly beasts (it was the hit Hamilton Deane stage production of "Dracula" that popularized the premise of vampires as suave and sexy). While a bit too short (this is one doc that would have benefited from being two hours long), this doc nonetheless provides a wealth of neat info that vampire fans ought to appreciate.