It Grows...

Rating: 8/10 (16 November 2001)

"Bram Stoker's Dracula" is one of those films that absolutely *demands* repeat viewings to appreciate. The first time I saw it I would have rated it a 4 or 5 maybe, but it has only 'grown on me' over the years.
The movie never takes itself seriously, which may disappoint horror fans looking for 'the real deal', as suggested by the film's title and director. Truly corny/inane lines of dialogue are regularly followed by inspired passages, creating an engaging, quirky experience.
One of the geniuses of this movie is the playing off of one of the world's worst actors (Keanu Reaves, in what has to be his flattest, most sophomoric and lifeless performance to date) against one of the best (Gary Oldman, who's obviously relishing this role) -- the contrast creates a fascinating film dynamic in which Reeves' character seems to almost disappear from the screen, while making Gary Oldman's acting (as Dracula) appear ten times better. It almost seems as though the casting was planned that way -- anyway, it works well.
Tom Waits (as Renfield) gives a real gem of a performance here... sadly, he gets very little screen time. Winona Ryder is... well, Winona Ryder. Her character works as Jonathan Harker's fiance, but not nearly as well as Dracula's 'love interest'. Anthony Hopkins plays a darkly comic Van Helsing, yet another truly enjoyable performance.
Some of the best scenes are toward the beginning of the film, in the castle. One really gets the impression of dark, squiggly things hiding in corners and terrifying secrets kept over centuries. As always, Gary Oldman grabs and holds your attention, smoothing over plot sections that might start to stutter and drag in the hands of a less seasoned actor.
It definitely takes repeated viewings to get to the point where you're really questioning (and understanding) what's happening there on the screen -- and when it finally clicks, the movie 'works' exceptionally well as a 'kitchen sink' horror/comedy/tragedy/romance. In all likelihood, you won't enjoy it too much the first time (except for select performances), but reserve your judgment and try again a few months later.
8.5/10