'Visually audacious' period horror film with 'most talented' actor now streaming

As the evenings draw in and Halloween approaches, countless viewers are hunting for a fresh programme to get their teeth into, following others who have relished an "exceptional" period drama and a series based on the works of Charles Dickens, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Audiences ought to sample this film available on BBC iPlayer, which has been praised as a triumph by cinema enthusiasts since it first graced screens in 1992.

One viewer shared on IMDb in their 10/10 review: "The atmosphere is dark and gloomy and completely draws us into the story.

"The cast and excellent direction make this film special. The details are subtle and carefully run through the story making this a great film experience."

A second viewer penned in their top-rated review: "This one really nails it. Lush, sensual, sexy\gory, beautiful and creepy. With just the right touch of humor [sic] to keep it in perspective."

READ MORE: ‘Masterfully performed’ period drama based on ‘harrowing’ true story now streaming

READ MORE: ‘Most exhilarating’ Shakespeare adaptation with ‘great cast’ is a must-watch

A third viewer remarked: "Visually audacious, eerie and operatic version of the undead legend."

Meanwhile, a fourth viewer observed in their 10/10 review: "Extraordinary, and hauntingly beautiful!

"Best Vampire movie ever! ! ! Period. Everything from the visuals, story and music are absolutely fantastic! Complete masterpiece."

Bram Stoker's Dracula emerged in 1992 from acclaimed director Francis Ford Coppola, based on the Irish writer's 1897 novel. The movie was set during the 19th century and chronicled Count Dracula (portrayed by Gary Oldman) journeying to England to enchant Mina Murray (Winona Ryder), who was due to marry his solicitor Jonathan Harker (Keanu Reeves), convinced she was the rebirth of his deceased wife.

Count Dracula developed an obsession with Mina upon glimpsing a photograph of her when Harker visited his Transylvanian residence to handle property documentation for a newly acquired English estate.

Harker found himself imprisoned within Count Dracula's fortress as the undead creatures descended upon the petrified legal professional, though he successfully fled and managed to alert Mina, who travelled to Transylvania to reunite with him.

Nevertheless, Count Dracula pursued relentlessly as he sought to reconnect with his beloved.

The cinema production featured a stellar ensemble cast, including Anthony Hopkins, Richard E. Grant, Cary Elwes, Sadie Frost, Tom Waits, and Monica Bellucci.

Bram Stoker's Dracula earned considerable acclaim for Oldman amongst viewers.

A perfect 10/10 review on IMDb stated: "This is the best rendition of Dracula ever captured on film. Gary Oldman's dark and sensual personae outshines any other vampire who ever dare put on a cape.

"To me Gary Oldman is the most talented and underrated actor ever. He becomes who he is playing, however in this role... Dracula became him... Oldman set the bar so high it is untouchable even to Bela Lugosi."

One viewer commented: "I have seen multiple versions of Dracula, but none compare to 1992's version starring Gary Oldman, the definitive Count Dracula in my opinion. This film is lavish, decadent and wonderfully vivid. It captured the gothic spirit of the novel, it's deep, romantic, and mixed with tender and violent moments."

Another fan penned a glowing review, stating: "After Gary Oldman as Dracula, there is no other Dracula."

Bram Stoker's Dracula is streaming on the BBC iPlayer now