Dracula (1958)

Jonathan Harker takes employment with Count Dracula, ostensibly to catalogue his vast library. Harker is shocked to uncover a woman who claims to be a prisoner of the Count and begs for his help. Before he can do so, however, Harker suffers the risen Count's wrath. Dracula, seeking more blood and vengeance, takes an interest in Harker's fiancée, Lucy Holmwood. It is left to Harker's colleague, Dr. Van Helsing to protect her. Also known as Horror of Dracula, this film would mark the first in a long line of Hammer Horror films to delve into the character of the most popular vampire ever known, Count Dracula. After ascertaining the rights to the use of the character, whose biggest depiction was in the renowned Dracula (1931), we finally got to see a retelling in the Hammer style, which opened the gateway to more frights, violence and blood. Whilst making some minor alterations to Stoker's marvellous story we are still treated to one of the finest depictions of the classic tale of all time that still manages to stand the test of time. It equally continues to hold a firm fixture in pop culture history and is highly regarded in the likes of film, Hammer Horror's illustrious catalogue, the horror genre and by moviegoers alike to this day. Taking the reins of this quintessential Dracula is none other than the grand actor Christopher Lee. Every feature and aspect of his portrayal makes the character all the more perfect. From his imposing height and presence to his ability to be so gentlemanly one minute before degrading into a hungry beast with bloodshot eyes and fangs the next. His take on the character is so impactful that whenever I think of Dracula, Lee is never far from my mind, and to think he only had thirteen lines. His counterpart to the story and rival, Dr. Van Helsing is equally highly regarded much like the actor playing him, Peter Cushing. It is well known Cushing and Lee have a fascinating friendship and their involvement in projects together is truly vast, especially with Hammer's Horror films. Cushing is a perfect counter as he embodies that of righteousness, doing all that is necessary for his fight against Dracula and his spawn. It is Helsing's arrival that brings us closer to the downfall of Dracula becoming personal for him with his friend Harker gone and his bride-to-be, Lucy, becoming a target. Helsing attempts to enlist help from Lucy's brother, Arthur, in this fight but to no avail. It's not until the effects upon Lucy become clear and a similar situation befalls his wife, Mina that he aids Helsing in his task. One of my favourite aspects of this film was seeing this team up as they eventually come to an understanding, working together as a formidable force against this evil. We also, get to see Helsing's extensive knowledge of dealing with vampirism throughout from the use of garlic to the cross and staking of the heart, which is given a full sequence that displays a whole plethora of emotions and is exceptionally executed. However, the moment everyone is naturally waiting for is the inevitable climactic fight between Dracula and Helsing. Let's just say, it is phenomenal. Their duel is honestly the highlight, filled with such tense and suspenseful moments that culminate in Dracula's brute force and Helsing's ingenuity. Plus the effects that follow are truly spectacular and remain as impressive now as they were then. One other aspect of this stupendous film was the exquisite set design that held as much presence as the actors featured in them, especially lending to the tones of certain scenes. Dracula's castle has never looked more extravagant and the same can be said for all the other settings. Overall, I regard this depiction to be the definitive version of the classic tale in every sense. Not a single beat is missed from the fantastic casting to the setting and tones, accompanied by a haunting score and viscerally pleasing direction. It is without a doubt one I recommend to all moviegoers and horror enthusiasts with a love for the Count, especially for the franchise it heralded. Also, a big thank you to my Dad for introducing me to this impressive line-up. Check out the sequel Brides of Dracula (1960) for Cushing's Helsing on a new mission, or for Lee's return, continue with Dracula: Prince of Darkness (1966).

Runtime: 1h 22m

Director: Terence Fisher

Genre: Drama / Horror

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Killer Klowns from Outer Space (1988)

When teenagers Mike and Debbie see a comet crash outside their sleepy small town, they investigate and discover a pack of murderous aliens who look very much like circus clowns. They try to warn the local authorities, but everyone assumes their story is a prank. It's not until they kidnap Debbie that Mike decides it's up to him to stop the clowns' bloody rampage. One of the last things I ever expected was to be blown away by a movie based around clowns (or, in this case Klowns) from space causing mayhem and yet, I was. Killer Klowns from Outer Space is a truly bizarre film that, whilst has an evident low budget, being listed under the B movie persona, it manages to rise above, delivering a strangely fantastic product. It is a cult classic that has since risen in popularity almost surpassing such a title. With plenty of merchandise and now a video game, this movie continues to have an impact on people to this day. I'm sure plenty of people read the title and scoffed at the absurdity. Well, I should know, I too thought this movie would be pure stupid and, whilst it is somewhat, it is also surprisingly brilliant. Throughout the film, I was captivated by the level of creativity on display. It is obvious the people behind this flick went above and beyond, finding a way around their budget limitations to deliver a spectacular-looking movie. Simply looking at the Klowns themselves, the level of detail and practicality of the costumes is truly admirable. It would have been so easy to paint people's faces and leave it at that but they went out of their way to make those phenomenal outfits and it pays off beacuase their look is one of the greatest highlights of this film. We open with a scene that presumably pays homage to classic 50s sci-fi horrors with a comet shooting overhead with young adults taking notice, like in The Blob (1958), which, of course turns out to be an alien craft. The couple who investigate are Mike and his girlfriend Debbie, who are drawn into this dangerous adventure when they enter a mysterious circus Big Top, which is right where the 'comet' should've landed. It turns out this is not a regular circus but the craft of beings who may look like Earth clowns but actually have a sinister purpose. Upon discovering the truth about these creatures with razor sharp teeth and their harvesting of people in pink cotton candy cocoons they head for town whilst the Klowns follow in hot pursuit. Whilst the pair attempt to convince the disbelieving Sheriff Mooney, who thinks its all a prank, the Klowns begin abducting and terrorising the town in a series of hijinks. Whilst it does have its horror aspects and moments, I personally found more of the comedy elements shining through, especially with the Klowns. They're unironically and unintentially hilarious as they cause mischief and, well, kill people. From driving invisible cars, running other cars off the road to starting fights with a bike gang or trying out products in a store and not to mention their many wacky gadgets. My favourite, probably had to be the use of a balloon they turn into a dog that leads them to their targets. I mean thats just unbelievably creative. Luckily, the couple were able to sway Dave Hanson, a police officer (and ex-boyfriend to Debbie), who at first thought it too was a prank until he saw one in action, realising what a threat they are. Despite their clear jealousy over Debbie, Mike and Dave work together as a formidable duo against the onslaught of Klowns, and the trio attempt to save what's left of their town. Overall, I am such a big fan of Killer Klowns. As previously stated, I never thought I would enjoy such a flick as much as I did, but it certainly earned it. The atmosphere is undeniably creepy but equally allowed for that hint of comedic implements which worked wonders. Perfectly marrying the two genres whilst allowing for a lick of sci-fi too for that additional kick. I was most impressed by the level of effort and detail, going out of their way to explain the world, even the clown situation, which is just proof of the additional care put in. I would heartedly recommend this cult classic to any fans of these genres as it will not disappoint to entertain, it further makes for some ideal Halloween season viewing.   

Runtime: 1h 28m

Director: Stephen Chiodo

Genre: Comedy / Horror / Sci-fi

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