Director: Gary Shore
Release Date: October 1, 2014
Studio(s): Universal Pictures
Distributor(s): Universal Pictures
Writers: Matt Sazama, Burk Sharpless, Bram Stoker
Runtime: 92 minutes
Budget: $70 million
Plot Summary:
A novel and captivating perspective on the beginnings of the fabled vampire Dracula is provided by “Dracula Untold.” The story of Vlad Draculea (Luke Evans), the prince of Transylvania, is told in this fifteenth-century drama. As the brutal Sultan Mehmed II (Dominic Cooper) leads the Ottoman Empire invading his realm and his loved ones, Vlad is a brave leader and a dedicated family man.
Vlad turns to Charles Dance, a formidable old vampire who lives in a dark cave on the edge of his domain, in his desperate search for strength to repel the overwhelming forces. Vlad gains tremendous strength and the capacity to control darkness from the vampire, but at a terrible cost: he must withstand the vampire’s ravenous appetite for human blood for three days in order to avoid being a vampire for all eternity.
Vlad gains amazing powers as he turns into a creature of the night and leads his army in battle against the Sultan’s forces. But his newfound power comes at a price, as the darkness within him intensifies and he fights to keep his humanity intact. The film tackles themes of power, sacrifice, and the conflict between good and evil, leading up to a pivotal encounter that will decide Vlad’s, his family’s, and his kingdom’s fate.
Movie Review:
“Dracula Untold” is an action-packed, visually stunning version of the Dracula legend that combines elements of horror, fantasy, and historical drama. In order to fully immerse the audience in the turbulent world of 15th-century Transylvania, director Gary Shore skillfully creates a dark and brooding atmosphere.
As Vlad Draculea, Luke Evans gives an engrossing portrayal that captures the essence of the character’s inner turmoil as he struggles to control his newfound, terrifying abilities. The story is given depth and emotion by the supporting cast, which includes Dominic Cooper as the ominous Sultan Mehmed II and Sarah Gadon as Vlad’s wife Mirena.
The battle scenes and special effects in the movie are amazing; they give it an epic feel and intensity. The film’s dark charm is enhanced by the especially well-done transformation scenes in which Vlad accepts his vampire abilities. An eerie presence that permeates the entire movie is created by Charles Dance’s portrayal of the ancient vampire, which is haunting and unforgettable.
“Dracula Untold” presents a novel viewpoint on the origins and motivations of the character, even though it may deviate from the classic Dracula mythology. The film creates a compelling and emotionally impactful narrative by striking a balance between its action and horror elements and a moving examination of Vlad’s battle to maintain his humanity.
Overall, “Dracula Untold” is a gripping and visually captivating film that breathes new life into the Dracula legend, providing audiences with a thrilling and darkly enchanting cinematic experience.
Cast:
- Luke Evans as Vlad Draculea / Dracula
- Sarah Gadon as Mirena, Vlad’s wife
- Dominic Cooper as Sultan Mehmed II
- Art Parkinson as Ingeras, Vlad’s son
- Charles Dance as the Master Vampire
- Diarmaid Murtagh as Dumitru, Vlad’s loyal friend and captain
