IMDB and the Guardian lists the 1958 British adaptation of the Bram Stoker‘s book as “Dracula” only, but the DVD and the credits show it as “Horror of Dracula“. The blood opening credits end though with the name etched in stone and dripping blood over it, so I assume that can be mistaken as the real title of the movie if you missed the first one. As far as I can tell this version is rather close to the book’s, unlike later ones made in Hollywood.
Because of the limited number of locations (most of them inside) and because of the lack of special effects it seemed more like a stage play turned into a movie than an original screenplay. This feeling was supported by the props, which were obviously just those. The intention seemed to have been to create an atmosphere through the story, acting and photography as opposed to a full fledged realistic retelling, where viewers could immerse themselves into the setting. The acting, particularly Peter Cushing as Doctor Van Helsing and Christopher Lee as Count Dracula, were superb. It was worthwhile seeing them, even if the rest of the experience was too old fashioned for me.
IMDB’s summary: After Jonathan Harker attacks Dracula at his castle (apparently somewhere in Germany), the vampire travels to a nearby city, where he preys on the family of Harker’s fiancée. The only one who may be able to protect them is Dr. van Helsing, Harker’s friend and fellow-student of vampires, who is determined to destroy Dracula, whatever the cost.
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