The Romanian count known as Dracula is summoned to London by Arthur Holmwood, a young Lord who is one the verge of being wed. Unknown to Arthur's future bride Lucy, her future husband is infected with syphilis and therefore cannot consummate their marriage. Arthur has laid his hopes of being cured on the enigmatic count; as it is said that Dracula has extraordinary powers. But these supernatural powers have sinister origins. The Count is a vampire. Soon Arthur realizes his serious mistake as all hell breaks loose and the Count infects others with his ancient curse. But Dracula has not counted on the young Lord acquiring the assistance of the Dutch Vampire expert Prof. Abraham Van Helsing.
Acting
David Suchet's Van Helsing: small man, massive presence.
Production
Grimy opulence—wealth rotting from within.
Writing
The marriage plot from hell, literally.
Director
Bill Eagles
Marc Warren
Dracula
Sophia Myles
Lady Holmwood/Lucy Westenra
David Suchet
Abraham Van Helsing
Dan Stevens
Lord Holmwood
Benedick Blythe
Lord Godalming
Tom Burke
Dr. John Seward
Stephanie Leonidas
Mina Murray
Rafe Spall
Jonathan Harker
Ian Redford
Hawkins
Donald Sumpter
Alfred Singleton
James Greene
Dr. Blore
Tanveer Ghani
Cotford
Rupert Holliday-Evans
DI Burton
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This adaptation explicitly ties vampirism to sexual disease, making Dracula a walking STD metaphor that Victorian audiences would've immediately understood.
Dan Stevens' first major screen role—he went from syphilis-ridden aristocrat to Downton Abbey in four years. The glow-up is real.
GB
