John Badham’s 1979 production of Bram Stoker’s original 1898 masterpiece of horror literature is a very interesting, if imperfect take on the subject.
Especially with Frank Langella in the lead, and Laurence Olivier as Van Helsing. Kate Nelligan makes an interesting Lucy.
Shout Factory has given us two takes on the subject. First the original 1979 film, as released, and then (on a separate disc, Mr. Badham’s desaturated version (1991), which I rather enjoy.
Presumably derived from the same IP, both versions are a pleasure to watch, albeit never fully cleaned of detritus, cob webs and blood spatter.
For those who may have never encountered this version, you’ll find it a worthwhile expenditure of time.
A wonderful score by John Williams.
Image – 4
Audio – 5 (DTS-HD MA)
Pass / Fail – Pass
Recommended
RAH
Robert has been known in the film industry for his unmatched skill and passion in film preservation. Growing up around photography, his first home theater experience began at age ten with 16mm. Years later he was running 35 and 70mm at home.
His restoration projects have breathed new life into classic films like Lawrence of Arabia, Vertigo, My Fair Lady, Spartacus, and The Godfather series. Beyond his restoration work, he has also shared his expertise through publications, contributing to the academic discourse on film restoration. The Academy Film Archive houses the Robert A. Harris Collection, a testament to his significant contributions to film preservation.
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