An adaptation of: Dracula by Bram Stoker, but also of the first Nosferatu film from 1922, directed by F.W. Murnau
Synopsis: Like its 1920s predecessor, this isn’t a direct adaptation of the original novel (in fact, the 1920s one was famously a well-done but illegal ripoff). It consolidates the main cast of characters into basically just Jonathan, his wife (who is Lucy in this version, not Mina), and Dracula himself.
Following Jonathan’s visit to Transylvania, Dracula travels to Jonathan’s own hometown of Wismar, Germany with the intent of seducing his wife, Lucy. He brings with him on his ghost ship the plague, as well as about a trillion rats. (If you get the chance to learn about the making of this movie, do it.) Lucy discovers that something other than the plague is afflicting the town, but nobody believes her.
Julia’s take: I love, love, love this movie. (Writing about it is making me want to rewatch it tonight!) It’s definitely a more artsy and European adaptation than other movies on this list, so if that’s the kind of movie you like, I definitely recommend viewing. It’s absolutely gorgeous, and stars the formidable Klaus Kinski as Dracula and the beautiful, ethereal, incredible, show-stopping Isabelle Adjani as Lucy.
Where to watch it: Watch it for free on Tubi or Peacock!
