Dracula on BBC One wasn’t a show that anyone was really asking for but after watching it’s certainly a show we needed!
Numerous instalments of the Dracula mythology have been done to death (excuse the pun) but when the writers behind Sherlock were involved, things got a little bit more intriguing.
Dracula on BBC One Review
Dracula serves as a black comedy. We have some hilarious comedic lines delivered with such deadpan that I couldn’t help but chuckle. But the smiles don’t last long as Dracula is gory, dark and unrelenting in a gloriously sadistic manor.
The comedy actually adds a more chilling persona to the piece and makes Dracula, even more, the figure of evil we’ve come to know and love.
Aided by a stellar performance by Claes Bang as Count Dracula the main focus of this first episode lies with Jonathan (John Heffernan). A lawyer who enters Dracula’s lair for the first time but quickly realises all is not as it seems.
Nosing around the castle in corners he shouldn’t be lurking in he quickly realises that Count Dracula is much more than just a posh talking reclusive.
The usual gothic offerings are in fine form within this gripping introductory episode. For a first episode, it certainly is a dive into the deep end. Exploring our own fears, insecurities and our own inner evils.
The final act culminates in a bloodbath of epic proportions as Dracula makes his mark. Not only on his victims but also us, the audience.
The show will continue tomorrow evening (January 2nd) and Friday evening (January 3rd). The full series will be available on Netflix this coming weekend.
Review by Sean Evans
Episode Reviews:
All Images (C) Hartswood Films – Photographer: Robert Viglasky
