After Jonathan Harker attacks Dracula at his castle, the vampire travels to a nearby city, where he preys on the family of Harker's fiancée. The only one who may be able to protect them is Dr. van Helsing, Harker's friend and fellow-student of vampires, who is determined to destroy Dracula, whatever the cost.
This Grand Guignol treatment bowled people over in the 50s, and it still yields some potent shocks.
– Dave Kehr,
Chicago Reader,
19 Oct 2009
fresh:
Christopher Lee's Dracula is a menacing and complex presence who never lets his fangs and cape dominate.
– David Jenkins,
Time Out,
1 Nov 2007
fresh:
Both director Terence Fisher as well as the cast have taken a serious approach to the macabre theme that adds up to lotsa tension and suspense.
– Variety Staff,
Variety,
23 Sep 2007
rotten:
Perhaps the constant hunt for hemoglobin is slowing our villain down, for this time there are strong indications that the once gory plot is showing definite signs of anemia.