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Two of the best things to happen to film lovers are The Criterion Collection, and eBay. The Criterion Collection brings the "lost classics" the underseen, and underappreciated back in the hands of movie lovers who adored them the first time, and introduces these great films to a new audience for their viewing and critique. But sometimes, for a number of reasons, these films go out of print. Thankfully, eBay brings even these hard to find titles back into the hands of the serious film student. "Blood for Dracula" is a perfect example of The Criterion Collection's committment to the unusual, and fascinating. Directed by Paul Morrissey, it turns the story into a more political venture, rather than just focusing on Dracula and his evil. Indeed, Dracula may be the most sympathetic character in this version. He is portrayed as a dying relic. A man who is incapable of existing in the world due to his requirements that can no longer be met. From his inability to find the virgin blood that will sustain him ("The blood of these whores is killing me!") to his aristocracy that some in the film see as not only outdated, but borderline criminal. The hired hand speaks of revoloution comimg, and a future where everyone works and Counts and their like are obsolete. Ironically, this "hero" of the film is a budding Communist who speaks of equality in work, yet not only turns a cold shoulder to the Counts blatant suffering, but speaks eagerly of raping the youngest of the three sisters on the farm. Some hero. Udo Kier gives a performance as Dracula that's both exciting and absurd depending how you look at it. The photography in the film is breathtaking, from Dracula's pain and suffering, to the beautiful countryside. The Criterion Collection brings this movie back the way it was meant to be seen, totally uncut, in a Director Approved edition (look for the "Director Approved" sticker!) which includes commentary by the Director as well as Udo Kier. Now, the sound is in mono which may not be the best, and I would have liked some more of Criterion's famous extras rather than just a stills gallery. Was there no trailer to include? And it's too bad that Andy Warhol himself wasn't available to offer his two cents on this as well. But overall, The Criterion Collection does what it does best: Taking what it has, and making it the best it can be. Granted, this film did eventually come out in a Non-Criterion double disc with its sister film "Flesh For Frankenstein" but even though the Paul Morrissey commentary is included, as far as I know, is the Udo Kier commentary included as well? I don't know, but for me, there's no reason to find out. If you want the ultimate viewing experience, THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR THE CRITERION COLLECTION. Everything they release is the absolute best of the best, and just about everyone of their releases has an independent review to back that up. Don't be fooled by "imitations". The Criterion Collection does not release anything that doesn't stand up to its extremely high standards of picture and sound quality. I cannot recommend "Blood for Dracula" in this verion enough. If you're a die hard fan of this film, 1970's exploitation pics, or even a beginner to the genre, The Director Approved version of The Criterion Collection is the only way to see, "Blood for Dracula" Anything else, is just that.Read full review
I love most of Andy Warhol and Paul Morrissey films, but this one has a story! Paul Morrissey was basically on his own during the making of Blood for Dracula and Flesh for Frankenstein since all Andy Warhol did on these films was to lend his name. Blood for Dracula also marks the end of an era as it was Joe Dallesandro's last outing with Andy and company. I would highly recommend Blood for Dracula. It's high camp gore!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Out of print movie.A classic.
Verified purchase: Yes
Boyfriend was really wanting this for his collection. Glad I got the chance to get this one. Boyfriend was really excited when it came to the house Thank You!
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