''The Horror of Dracula'' (1958)

By Crusader1307

 Hammer Studios of England's ''first'' foray into the ''Dracula'' Series of Horror Films made  immensely popular in the 1960s and early 1970s, it also set Actor Christopher Lee into the oft stereo-typed role. Not since 1930s Bela Lugosi, had an Actor been so identified with a role as Lee was (later, much to his discernment). ''Horror of Dracula'' is also seen as one of the best Horror Films made (ranked 65th out of 100). Loosely based on Bram Stoker's classic Vampire Novel – much of the film took liberty with the Book (so as to avoid any legal actions).

Set in 1885, Jonathan Harker (a character from The Novel), is retained by mysterious Count Dracula – to organize His quite ancient Library, at His Castle outside the Town of Klausenburg (Romania). But this is a ruse. Dracula uses Harker to familiarize Himself with the workings of the ''Modern World'', making plans to move to England to begin His ''Reign of Terror''. Turning Harker over to His vampire Brides (in the Crypt), Harker (unlike the book), will discover too late – His predicament. He learns of Dracula's ''true nature'' and tires to kill Him (failing of course).

Harker's fiancee sends Family friend Dr. Van Helsing (who was played by another well known Actor Peter Cushing) travels to Romania to find Harker. An expert in The Occult (among other things), Van Helsing finds a now vampire Harker and quickly send Him to His rest (ala wooden stake in the heart). Now aware of Dracula's attempt to flee to England, Harker makes quick work of The Brides and enters into a showdown with The Count in The Castle Library.

After nearly finishing Our Doctor, Van Helsing is able to pull down a series of curtains around the Library, allowing bright sunlight to bath The Library and our evil Count. With the help to twin silver candle sticks, made into a Cross, Van Helsing turns Dracula to a gray Dust (until the next of 6 following Dracula Films by Hammer). High Technicolor, lots of dripping bright red fake blood and of course Hammer Films ambiance, ''Horror of Dracula'' is a must see for any true ''Dracula'' Fan.