Dracula Review

Messages: The main message is "beware of vampires." But while some would succumb to Dracula's charms, others, like Van Helsing, continually look for ways to solve the problem of exposing and defeating the monster.

Role models: The chilly Van Helsing is probably the movie's best role model, an analytical fellow who does not appear to get rattled in the face of horror. He takes responsibility, looking for ways to outsmart and defeat the vampire and restore things to normal.

Violence: Blood is shown in one scene, when Renfield cuts his finger in Dracula's castle. Blood is mentioned and discussed many other times, and there are small puncture wounds in the necks of Dracula's victims. There is persistent talk of death, and some threats. Much of the violence is only suggested, but some of it is still chilling, such as spiders and bats; the shadow of a dead sea captain, tied to the helm; a mad, giggling Renfield slowly approaching the camera. Dracula is destroyed (offscreen) with a stake to the chest.

Sex: Dracula is shown to have three wives, though they are not seen again after he arrives in London. There's some very subtle, almost imperceptable innuendo as Dracula seduces Mina away from John Harker.

Language: Not an issue

Consumerism: Not an issue

Drinking, drugs and smoking: Renfield enjoys a glass of wine in Dracula's castle. (Dracula does not partake, since he never drinks...wine.)