It’s time for the Countess Dracula blu-ray review, I’m somewhat of a fan of certain types of horror films, none more so than Hammer. I love their style, music and actors so when any such film makes its way on to blu-ray I simply must take a look.
The film I’m looking at today is Countess Dracula (1971), may not be regarded by many as one of the very best but it’s one I still enjoy. Anyway this one’s been out for while released by Network, the question is have they done a good job in terms of picture quality? Let’s find out, here’s my
- Countess Dracula (1971)
- UK Rating 18
- Discs: 1
- Released By Network
- Blu-ray Released: 8th September 2014
Plot
Countess Elisabeth Nádasdy has a secret, she can restore her youthful appearance temporarily but only at a cost to others. With several local girls disappearing how long can she and her lover Captain Dobi cover up her crimes?
Style / Direction
It’s instantly recognisable as being from the Hammer series of films and that has to be a massive positive. Still the story is not as enthralling as some of the more highly regarded titles.
Directed by Peter Sasdy, with the cinematography being handled by Kenneth Talbot.
Music / Audio Effects
Not one of Hammer’s best scores but one that seems to suit the feel of film rather well, the music is provided by Harry Robertson.
Acting / Characters
Overall the acting is pretty solid.
Conclusion: Countess Dracula (1971) Film Review
Make no mistake Countess Dracula (1971) is certainly not one of Hammer’s best horror films. That said its one I would certainly say is worth watching. If I had one main complaint other than the story not being the most compelling it’s that the films pace is too slow.
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Conclusion: Countess Dracula Blu-ray Review
Unfortunately this appears to be no more than a high definition transfer meaning the resolution is vastly improved from the previous DVD release. Sadly no restoration work has taken place, it really only needs a quick clean-up which is a real shame.
Hopefully one day someone may release it again properly restored. There are plenty of speckles throughout the film which really spoiled my entertainment. Until then this is the best version of the film currently available.
Moving on to the extras and to be fair to Network they a excellent which is even more annoying considering the picture quality should be the first priority of any Blu-ray release.
Extras
- Audio Commentary with Ingrid Pitt, Kim Newman & Stephen Jones
- Archive interview with Ingrid Pitt
- Original Theatrical Trailer
- 50 Years of Hammer
- Image Galleries
- Thriller Episode
- Conceptions of Murder Episode
- Commemorative booklet
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Popcorn Cinema Rating: Countess Dracula (1971)
MOVIE RATING: WORTH WATCHING
BLU-RAY RATING: POOR
EXTRAS: EXCELLENT
Countess Dracula (1971) Film Trailer
For those of you yet to see the film I’ll leave you with a little taster…
Clip may not be representative of the Blu-ray version
That’s the Countess Dracula blu-ray review, if you have any thoughts on this film you can leave them in the comment section below:
Summary: Countess Dracula (1971) Blu-ray Review
Movie title: Countess Dracula (1971)
Duration: 93 mins
Director(s): Peter Sasdy
Actor(s): Ingrid Pitt, Nigel Green, Lesley-Anne Down
Genre: Horror
- Movie Rating
- Blu-ray Picture Rating
- Extras
Summary
A reasonably enjoyable Hammer film let down on Blu-ray by poor picture quality.
