Another Japanese Dracula Film- why not? Quite a while ago, I did a series of Japanese Adaptations of Universal Film Characters, from Dracula to Frankenstein to even a Wolfman (sort of). Naturally, there is still more. In the 1970s, they made three Dracula Films that appear to be unrelated- this is the middle one. To see my review of the 3rd one, click here. This time, Dracula is in Japan and seeking some Brides. Yeah, he doesn't have too many ideas- kind of a one-trick pony. Can the love between 2 Sisters be enough to stop him? To find out, read on...
In a Cold Open, a young woman tries to catch her dog, but ends up at a creepy House and sees Dracula and his Bride.
18 years later, we see the young woman escaped to live peacefully in a Coastal Town in Japan.
Her and her Sister get along well, even as the younger one is still bothered by her 'dreams.'
Even as she finds love, her sanity is questioned as her 'dreams' are ignored by those around her.
Meanwhile, death comes to this small Town as a woman is killed by the titular Lake, her dog is killed and this one-time-friend appears to be a murderous lackey!
Her Sister is targeted by Dracula, who makes her cover for the disappearance and put more doubt about our Heroine's suspicion.
After enough evidence piles up, the Doctor finally believes her and they find the House from her 'dreams'- which are actually memories. She remembers the strange man and how she survived.
They are confronted by Dracula after they learn the truth- he's the son of the strange man and fell to Vampirism's control. He kept the son satiated with his own blood for as long as he could.
They battle Dracula, but are saved by the timely-interference of the old man. Naturally, Dracula melts and all is well- until the next Film. The End.
A solid, if unambitious Film. There's nothing terribly-new here. If you always want at least one thing new in your Films, you will be a little disappointed here. It's just Dracula, a bride or two, a 'Renfield' and a final battle. That's not to say that it is bad. It is pretty good. The Setting and Cinematography is very nice. The Acting is good and the Effects are nice. They are usually pretty low-key, though the pale white skin that the Vampires have is quite effective. It is randomly-gory, so bear that in mind. The Story works and the Film is overall good. Like I said, it's just not super-creative as a whole. If you've never seen a Japanese Dracula Film, this is a good one. One note: two different times the Heroes are saved by Ex Machinas. Kind of, well, lazy.
Next time, let's jump ahead to the '80s to get a bit more trashy. Will the quality drop though? Stay tuned...
No comments:
Post a Comment