The Faces Of Dracula

The Faces Of Dracula

(WIP)

“Dracula, the story of the greatest lover who ever lived.”

- ‘Dracula’,  Dir. John Badham

Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992)

Such a beautifully romantic portrait of the time and story, with a thoroughly breathtaking image constantly portrayed throughout the film -- each room set out and painted in such a seductively sultry way. The cast: Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, Richard E. Grant, Anthony Hopkins, (...) all so EXTREMELY talented and well-cast. I adore Keanu Reeves and think he is such a fabulous choice for Jonathan. My only criticism relating to credits is Gary Oldman. 

What vampire fan looks at Gary Oldman in this film and exclaims, "Oh yeah, that's MY Dracula"? Answer: Nobody. The hair, the makeup, and the wardrobe were all devastating mistakes. The ironic fact within this is that Gary Oldman portrays a far more tasteful and accurate Count Dracula without that fucking wig and prosthetics. He is so beautiful with striking features, just as Stoker describes him in the book. LITERALLY at the beginning of the film (and later in the film where he comes to London to haunt Mina… dude i’d be on my knees in a second for him), you see Dracula when he was younger - HELLO, he looks so perfectly vampiric and handsome! A long, richly dark mane rather than (what looks like) a grey ass on his head. I have no clue what happened in the writers' room with that one. 

As a positive contrast, whenever there is a switch back to Mina Murray (Winona Ryder), waiting back in London, it makes me rethink my dislike towards the film. The gardens that you find her in are so breathtaking and romantic, with her dresses swimming around in the amalgamation of blues and greens... it makes her look like a butterfly. It is not only Ryder who appears as a painting to me in this film, but all of the women in their gorgeous costumes are just so enchanting, I cannot even describe how much I adore them. If only castle Dracula was portrayed beautifully, also... we are severely missing out!

Pretty good portrayal of the story, certainly some jumping around, but that is just what cinema adaptations do. 

Additionally, I'm not even going to bother talking about that fucking accent that Gary Oldman does. What. Guys. C'mon. 

“I have crossed oceans to find you….” 

Dracula (1931)

So enchanting so beautifully poetic my goodness. How could I ever conjure the words to describe how this film makes me feel. It just feels like Me. it’s what my mind longs for in cinema: the image of beauty, lust, romance, hunger, love…Every single frame is a work of art to me, this movie calls to me on such a deep level. So fucking sensual and gentle and gorgeous Fuck. Absolutely love this film. 

The erotic undertones in this film are incredibly powerful and effective, the romance and the desire is so well written and painted out for the audience. I can just sense every emotion portrayed on-screen, it moves me as a whole every single time. Bela is an excellent choice for Dracula, obviously, but a part of me feels as though he is too male looking for my taste LOL. I’m very particular about the vampires I like! sue me. I’ve fallen inlove with the idea of vampires with thick, animalistic manes of hair, big emotional eyes, a very queerly feminine vampire but with strong overriding masculine features. Bela doesn’t necessarily match this description, but that doesn’t mean I think he makes a bad Dracula whatsoever. He is definitely my favourite, and for the time, he still has a very queer vibe to him. 

All the expression and lust in this film is a large reason why it appeals to me so much, I cannot thank a film more for practically turning me into who I am today. 

"For one who has not lived even a single lifetime, you are a wise man, Van Helsing."

Schwartzman

 Schwartzman 

In times of need, don't feel any hesitation to watch a genre-defying comedy about an obsessive, passionate, too-bright too-passionate nerd who isn't confined within a passing or failing grade. I love Max Fischer, I often feel like him, stupidly in love with hobbies and human-nature with little care for a career fostered beneath it. Jason Schwartzman, (probably) my all-time favourite actor, delivers a performance of a perfectly stormy amalgam of teenage insecurity, desire, melancholy and disappointment. It leaves me to wonder if Max Fischer is a self portrait? (RUSHMORE).

As seen again, deep in desperation, Schwartzman is found solemnly playing “Where Do You Go To My Lovely” on his iPod, awaiting his casual companions’ arrival. Sometimes, all a boy needs is some flowers. Some Affection. (HOTEL CHEVALIER).

Thank you, Wes, thank you, Owen. You have mastered the depiction of conflicting teenage boyhood in cinema stunningly.

The Cure: The Show Of a Lost World -- Review

 The Cure: The Show Of a Lost World

Film Review 

Watched on an 18 x 8 meter screen

Setlist available HERE !!

(trailer)

The Show Of a Lost World is a concert film captured by Nick Wickham featuring 31 songs, recut, remastered, and remixed in 4K, all performed live by The Cure at London's Troy (November 1st, 2024). Alongside playing their new record, 'Songs Of a Lost World', they brought back to life a setlist that has remained in record stores and home stereos for generations. 

Seeing a concert so beautifully captured on film is an unknown experience for me, as someone who has never-gone-out-of-his-way to see a concert film (prior to this one). After three hours of watching Robert Smith dancing, smiling and singing on stage, as well as his very cartoonishly goth bandmates and extremely ostentatious rhythm guitarist, I can enthusiastically say: I loved this film. My attention was never failing to be fully consumed by the performance and cinematography happening on the screen, with beautiful colours and dynamics constantly painted across the stage, happily accompanied by gorgeous vocals and instrumentation provided by the band. 

The camerawork was indescribably engaging, with flawless framing and enthusiastic compatibility with the lightshow that was taking place on stage. Wickham definitely knows his way around a camera, with each change-in-direction playing into exactly what the audience wants to see next. The cinematography of The Show Of a Lost World brings the band's performance to life, highlighting their emotional and expressive nature, whilst further providing a beautiful visual element to their music. 

Further on the musical side of things, of course, The Cure does an excellent job of giving their music the respect and performance value it deserves. Robert Smith sounds, seemingly, exactly the same as he did in the '80s! Such an enchantingly recognisable voice. My highlight is definitely "Pictures Of You", which they performed earlier on into their set. I have a certain personal attachment to this song -- there were definitely a few tears shed thanks to the band's timeless regard and reverence they give to their own works of art. 

Overall, concert films are certainly underrated and underreviewed. I recommend The Show Of a Lost World to anyone wanting to explore this genre of film :)

Thank you for reading!

Secretary (2002) Film Review

 Secretary (2002)

...Assume The Position.

Secretary, written and directed by Steven Shainberg, is a story that follows Lee Holloway (Maggie Gyllenhaal), a nervous, socially awkward young woman with a history of self abuse. Subsequent to her release from a mental institution, she is hired as a Secretary for a high demand lawyer – Mr. Edward Grey (James Spader). The film follows their growth of an erotic, sadomasochistic relationship. 

In a world where sexuality takes such a predominant position in film and television, Secretary represents a different kind of erotica that is devastatingly in-absentia within the art of moving pictures. The content and theme of this film is established within the opening scene, with Lee Halloway picking up a fax with her mouth; since her hands are bound by a heavy-duty S&M restraint, holding her arms out by her sides. A beautiful full-shot follows; Lee makes her way down Edward’s hallway (impeccable colour design, the office setting is breathtakingly decorated), slamming the door once she reaches his main office. This film doesn’t necessarily argue that S&M relationships are better-or-worse than a more typical one, more that sexuality is fluid and complex, and can be real reflections into what a person is thinking (or their mental state in general). Lee uses the masochism as a substitute for her own self-abuse; which, on paper, sounds extremely unhealthy, but the film shows that sadism is far more complicated than just being kinky. It is expressed as a form of art and love. Lee wasn't craving to be harmed, she was craving love; and Edward’s infliction of pain was followed by aftercare and (some kind of) affection; the audience, Lee and Edward can all feel the passion and consideration between them. A clear symbolistic choice from the director was Edward and his purple orchard. His close attention and care for the flowers in his office is a direct mirror-in-behaviour of what Lee was craving from him from the very start: dominating love and care. This is far different to the movie that it is commonly compared to, which is 50 Shades Of Grey. Fuck off, that film is rapey as shit and that fuck-ass guy just likes hurting women. 

Maggie Gyllenhaal's character is… well-written, to a point. She is gawky and awkward, sure, but there's certainly a lack in intelligence that comes off as quite demeaning – almost inspired by the damsel-in-distress archetype. This isn't extremely apparent, but enough to wish for a more developed protagonist. Although there are flaws present in her writing, I do love Lee’s character… but I think that is just because she's slightly a blank canvas! Her writing is similar to Bella Swan’s (Twilight) characterisation, which is infamous for being unimaginative and flavorless. 

James Spader's character is a little different – he is far more complex, far more developed. Although he is dominant and masochistic, he remains depicted as a quirky, nervous and, may I add, an unconventionally-cute-type character. Other examples of that archetype can be most of Paul Dano’s or Micheal Cera’s depictions in film – except if you made them lowkey super perverted and uhh stuff. I’m not complaining, Edward Grey is one of my favourite characters, not only from this film, but in all cinematic universes! 

Overall, this is definitely one of my favourite films of all time. The graceful representation of masochism is quite beautiful, with an extremely artistic take on what it means, how it's experienced and the mentality behind it. When I refer to Myself directing films, this is exactly what I have in mind – where the hell are all the erotic thrillers! I’m a Slut for you! Anyway, great film. If you havent seen it yet, please do :)

Grace - Jeff Buckley (Album Review)

 "Grace" Album review

This album is listened to/reviewed in chronological order
Headphones used: Sennheiser HD 280 Pros
Streamed via Spotify (I need the vinyl, I know)

Mojo Pin - This song is definitely an experience. Buckley is an artist who does not typically articulate all of his lyrics clearly, so I recommend reading them along whilst listening. So poetically tragic, beautiful descriptions of longing for someone using physical and metaphorical lyricism – his use of resembling a person by their hair colour is so enchanting in this piece. I definitely understand why all the girls/boys with black hair default to this song being their favourite by Jeff Buckley. Some of my lyrical standouts appear in the verses, such as; 

“I'm lying in my bed, the blanket is warm, this body will never be safe from harm, still feel your hair, black ribbons of coal, touch my skin to keep me whole”

“Don't want to weep for you, don't want to know, I'm blind and tortured, the white horses flow, the memories fire, the rhythms fall slow, black beauty, I love you so”

Grace - I'm not as crazy about this song compared to the others on the record. Still, absolutely beautiful lyrics, you can hear his articulation far better in this one. Additionally, he really shows off his vocal range by the last chorus. I think Buckley uses this song as a self-portrait in a way, with lyrics such as: "There's the moon asking to stay, long enough for the clouds to fly me away. Oh, my time is coming, I’m not afraid (afraid to die). My fading voice sings of love”. That being said, I can't help but feel like there was something too overwhelming, musically: maybe the layering of vocals at the end went on for a little too long or something.

Last Goodbye - Absolutely one of my highlights among this album. In my opinion, Jeff's unmatched abilities of writing poignant and bittersweet poetry becomes so extremely apparent in Last Goodbye. The introduction is somewhat misleading: the song is established with cheerful chords paired with an upbeat strumming (?? sorry IDK that much about guitar yet LOL), with sharply contrasting lyrics. My main lyrical standouts include:

“Kiss me out of desire, baby, not consolation. Oh, you know it makes me so angry 'cause I know that in time, I'll only make you cry, this is our last goodbye.” (so beautifully heartbreaking!!!)

The tone of the guitar grows moodier further into the song, but juxtaposing lyricism and melodic harmonies give off a strong The Smiths vibe… and I think its rad as fuck! 

Lilac Wine - Boys, I do not play about this song. I love Lilac Wine by Jeff Buckley. From the first strum of the guitar this song completely wells you into a world of heartbreak. “I lost myself on a cool, damp night”— I'm sure you did, bro. So effortlessly poetic and, dare I say, graceful, Buckley's voice swims through this song, making the listener absolutely swoon for lost love or someone you long for. The brassy ride sybil, paired with gentle strumming on an electric guitar flows in and out of each other, holding the listener in a chokehold. I would say the lyrics of Lilac Wine are my favourite of any of his songs, with my standouts including: 

“When I think more than I wanna think, Do things I never should do, I drink much more that I ought to drink, Because it brings me back you”

“Listen to me, I cannot see clearly, isn't that she coming to me? Nearly here, Lilac wine, Is sweet and heady, where's my love?”

“Listen to me, why is everything so hazy? Isn't that she, or am I just going crazy, dear?”

“Lilac wine, I feel unready for my love, feel unready, for my love”

So Real - With lyrics that stay simple compared to the other songs on Grace, this song is predominantly music-based for me. I think the lyrics really emphasise what this song is about – a past love that was profoundly intense and painful to remember – with the drums playing such a significant part in the song! I’m a fucking drum Slut so I really liked this one :) I listened to it a few times over because I was slightly preoccupied, but this is definitely going on my playlist. My stand-out lyrics from So Real are probably the repetition of; “I love you, but I'm afraid to love you, I'm afraid, Oh, that was so real, Oh, that was so real, (...)”, I think it was immensely powerful amongst the instruments playing, it gives this song a shiny gold star. (Also, the way he says "I love you/I'm afraid to love you" is so fucking hot and breathy I swear to god)

Hallelujah - As one of the most popular songs off of this album, I was super excited to take a listen! I was not disappointed; I actually went into this album not knowing that there were any covers. Jeff relies on his own voice and the gentle playing of his electric guitar, which did not disappoint. The original song is written and sung by Leonard Cohen, which surprised the fuck out of me, because I only listen to his song titled “I’m Your Man”, which is a song about a sadomasochistic relationship featured in the film Secretary. But that is beside the point LOL. This was beautifully executed. Jeff’s voice is a work of art on its own.

Lover, You Should’ve Come Over - Oh god. Literally what do I even say. This song is established with synth, then, subsequently, the iconic strumming of guitar bursts in. So moody and emotive… yet there’s a cheery element to it. It kind of feels like an artist happily indulging in his despair, desire and longing for someone, a person who remains irreplaceable. Buckley’s voice harmonizes and complements the instrumental aspect of this song so extremely well, with his soft and sweet tone almost leading the guitar where to go. This song resembles a two-act story to me, the first act being more gentle compared to the second. The abrupt, emotional nature and intensity of the “It’s never over” segment to the song is so beautifully overwhelming, with simple, yet impeccably delivered lines ending every four bars. And these Fucking lyrics I swear to god. Jeff Buckley is my favourite poet of all time. Here are a few of my stand outs from this song:

“Broken down and hungry for your love with no way to feed it. Where are you tonight, child, ya know how much I need it.”

“Lonely is the room, the bed is made, the open window lets the rain in. Burning in the corner is the only one who dreams he had you with him.”

“It's never over, my kingdom for a kiss upon her shoulder, It's never over, All my riches for her smiles when I've slept so soft against her”

Corpus Christi Carol - This song was good. Buckley sings higher than I thought he could, showing off his different forms of vocal expression… very opera like! Extremely beautiful. I don’t really have many notes, I think it’s a lovely interlude. He could possibly have swapped this with Lover, You Should’ve Come Over order-wise, but other than that, I really did enjoy this one for what it is. 

Eternal Life - FUCK YEAH! I really liked the energy of this song. A lot more ‘rock n’ roll’ compared to the others off this album, the whole five minutes is sectioned into a respectable verse #1, chorus, verse #2, interlude, bridge then verse #3, which is the set-out of your everyday classic rock hit… I can't say I’m complaining! Every good record has one inspired by that layout. I really enjoyed the lyrics too; it has religious tones to it, with references to Jesus and his preaching of peace and love — describing it as “a prison for the walking dead”. In my interpritation, this song is about modern christianity and how twisted it has gotten, which to be honest, is a really interesting change to the other songs on this record being only love poems. A few of my standout lyrics from this song are:

“Did you really think this bloody road would pave the way for you? You better kiss hello to eternal life.” (DIVA!) 

Dream Brother - This song was beautifully produced; When you listen to it, you get fully grasped in the surround sound. I genuinely think Dream Brother is a standout for me on this album, with an ambience of lost hope and betrayal hidden inside the lyrics. Pairing this with the extraordinary usage of the vibraphone alongside Jeff’s iconic acoustic and electric guitar, it not only brings the song to life, but it builds a whole world of poetic tragedy around the listener. Some of my standout lyrics include: 

“Her green eyes blew goodbyes, with her head in her hands, and your kiss on the lips of another”

“I feel afraid and I call your name, I love your voice and your dance insane — I hear your words, and I know your pain”

Forget Her - Forget Her is a song already quite familiar to me; it illustrates a narrative of getting over someone you love and can’t forget after they were unfaithful/ after cheating on your relationship. As the conclusion of the album, this powerful, emotional ballad is driven to a point of devastating climax, leaving the listener absolutely shattered, yet heart-racing. The song is introduced with a beautiful press roll on the snare, followed by a rock beat with a double kick (fuckkk.), and a melancholic chord progression on the electric guitar. The lyrics are pure poetry; Buckley recites an inner monologue of sorts, trying to convince himself/the listener to not romanticize somebody who hurts you so deeply. The lyrics are absolutely beautiful and illustrative, with some of my favourites being:

 “All full of wine, the world before her, was sober with no place to go”

“Well my tears are falling down as I try to forget her love was a joke from the day that we met, all of the words, all of her men, all of the pain when I think back to when”.

As a conclusion to the record, Forget Her is timed perfectly at the end, giving the listener one last thing to cry about. 

Thank you so much for reading :) I have loved listening to this album and giving my opinions. I am not a music critic by any means, just a boy who loves poetry and Jeff Buckley.