Cast
View AllWei-Qiang Zhang
as Dracula
Tara Birtwhistle
as Lucy Westernra
David Moroni
as Dr. Van Helsing
CindyMarie Small
as Mina
Johnny A. Wright
as Jonathon Harker
Stephane Leonard
as Arthur Holmwood
Matthew Johnson
as Jack Seward
Keir Knight
as Quincy Morris
Brent Neale
as Renfield
Stephanie Ballard
as Mrs. Westernra
Sarah Murphy-Dyson
as Vampiress / Nun / Maid
Carrie Broda
as Maid / Nun
Gail Stefanek
as Maid / Vampiress
Janet Sartore
as Maid / Nun
Jennifer Welsman
as Gargoyle / Nun
Crew
Director
- Guy Maddin
Writer
- Mark Godden
Producer
- Vonnie Von Helmolt
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Music film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Guy Maddin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.6 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 75 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Billy Elliot, which focuses more on action than character development, Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Dracula and Ilsa: Harem Keeper of the Oil Sheiks explore similar territory, Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 28, 2002
- Runtime: 1h 15m
- Budget: $1,596,010
