Guy Maddin's unique collaboration with the Winnipeg National
Ballet is a mix of breathtaking choreography, avant-garde
film making techniques and deliciously dark humour.
With
its erotically-charged atmosphere and moody gothic edge, Maddin
transforms and reinterprets Bram Stoker's original tale, choreographed
by Mark Godden. Presented in his characteristic "tinted" black
and white style, the screen is brought to dramatic life with
an array of commanding performances and the addition of lush
splashes of colour...
Next
to David Cronenberg, Guy Maddin is Canada's most extraordinary
filmmaker and his movies are among the most unique ever brought
to the screen. Here he brings us Dracula as you have
never seen it performed before.
When
I first saw the box for Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's
Diary I was a tad curious and also a bit weary. This did
not look promising. Ok, apart from the long list of awards
it has won. I was not looking forward to seeing this. I have
never really been a big fan of the Dracula stories
at the best of times. And the thought of seeing a ballet version
didn't really spark the interest it should have. But
fortunately, thanks to the fact that I have to watch these
films to review them, I have found a Gem of a film.
This is fantastic. A ballet version of Dracula that
manages to be sexy and quirky at the same time, and the scary
thing is, is that you never would have expected it. This is
a very well shot film that uses black and white and colour
to its full advantages. And the quality of the DVD transfer
is outstanding.
The
DTS track included on this DVD is also very good, Offering
good use of the surrounds whilst also having superb sound
quality. The Dolby Digital 5.1 track is also very good. But
if you have the equipment then I advise the DTS track. It
does make a difference.
The extras on the disc are also very good. There is a director's
commentary as well as a few documentaries on the making of
this film. There are some Radii interviews and some TV spots.
All in all this is something very special in an outstanding
package. The film is of excellent quality and definitely makes
for an enjoyable experience. Couple that with a first class
list of extras and you have a DVD that must be owned.
Simon
Lee
Buy
this item online
We
compare prices online so you get the cheapest
deal!
Click on the logo of the desired store below
to purchase this item.
|
|
£14.99
(Amazon.co.uk) |
|
|
|
£16.99
(MVC.co.uk) |
|
|
|
£16.99
(Streetsonline.co.uk) |
All prices correct at time of going to press.
|
|