In Defense of NBC’s Dracula

Jonathan Rhys Meyers stars as the legendary vampire Dracula in 19th century London.

Each week I found myself complaining about something on NBC’s DRACULA. And then the following week I’d be sitting in front of the TV, back for more. Never truly reaching the heights of grandeur I envisioned for it, the show nonetheless offered a fresh, intriguing, and, above all, addictive alternate version of the age-old tale of the vampire Count. What worked about it? Overall good acting, slick production values, inventive storylines. And Jessica De Gouw as a smokin’ hot Mina Murray.

What didn’t work? Star Jonathan Rhys Meyers, while serviceable in the lead role, never quite delivered the sense of brooding menace Dracula is supposed to exhibit. In other words, not enough Christopher Lee. In fact it is Van Helsing, a conflicted, ruthless man out for revenge, who is the most interesting character, and more akin to what Dracula should be, in my opinion. (Interestingly enough, actor Thomas Kretschmann, lately of AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON, has also portrayed Dracula, starring in Dario Argento’s pretty but disappointing take on the classic story. Dracula, Van Helsing, Avengers—Kretschmann has definitely earned his Geek Cred.) Also, Rhys Meyers is too short. Still, I would have liked to see the series get a second season. Who’s with me?

By TheCheezman

WAYNE MILLER is the owner and creative director of EVIL CHEEZ PRODUCTIONS, specializing in theatrical performances and haunted attractions. He has written, produced, and directed (and occasionally acted in) over two dozen plays, most of them in the Horror and True Crime genres. He obtained a doctorate in Occult Studies from Miskatonic University and is an active paranormal investigator. Is frequently told he resembles Anton Lavey. And Ming the Merciless. Denn die totden reiten schnell!

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