Drácula (1931)
The shadowy Spanish-language counterpart to Universal's iconic vampire classic, filmed on the same sets and now celebrated as a horror landmark in its own right.
Drácula - Movie Information
- Original Title: Drácula
- Release Year: 1931
- Directed by: George Melford
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Horror
- Runtime: 1h 44m
- Original Language: Spanish
- Spoken Languages: Spanish
- Release Date (Theatrical): March 1, 1931 (CU), April 24, 1931 (United States), April 3, 1931 (Mexico - B-15), March 20, 1931 (Spain - 12)
- Alternative Titles: Dracula, Spanish Version (US), Drakoulas (GR), Drakula (HU), 魔人ドラキュラ (スペイン語版) (JP), Дракула (SU)
- Production Companies: Universal Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
Drácula - Plot
A British estate agent travels to Transylvania to meet the mysterious Count Dracula, who is interested in leasing a London castle. After Dracula enslaves the agent and drives him to insanity, the pair return to London together, where Dracula, a secret bloodsucker, begins preying on socialites.
Drácula - Trailer
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Drácula - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- George Melford
Main Cast
- Carlos Villarías
- Lupita Tovar
- Barry Norton
- Pablo Álvarez Rubio
- Eduardo Arozamena
- José Soriano Viosca
- Carmen Guerrero
- Amelia Senisterra
- Manuel Arbó
- John George
Writers
- Garrett Fort
Producers
- Carl Laemmle Jr.
Drácula - FAQs
Is Drácula (1931) different from the Bela Lugosi version?
Yes. The Spanish-language Drácula was filmed simultaneously on the same Universal sets at night, while the English version with Bela Lugosi shot during the day. Director George Melford used longer takes and different camera angles, and many critics consider the Spanish version more visually dynamic and atmospheric than its English counterpart.
Where can you stream or watch Drácula (1931)?
Drácula (1931) is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and YouTube. Check JustWatch for the most current availability and pricing options in your region, as streaming libraries can change over time.
Is Drácula (1931) based on a true story?
No. Drácula is based on Bram Stoker's 1897 Gothic novel Dracula, which was adapted into a stage play before reaching the screen. While Stoker drew loose inspiration from historical figures like Vlad the Impaler, the story of Count Drácula is entirely fictional.
Who are the main actors in Drácula (1931)?
The film stars Carlos Villarías as Count Drácula, Lupita Tovar as Eva, Barry Norton as Juan Harker, and Pablo Álvarez Rubio as the memorably unhinged Renfield. Eduardo Arozamena plays Van Helsing and José Soriano Viosca portrays Doctor Seward.
What is Drácula (1931) about?
A British estate agent named Renfield travels to Transylvania, where the mysterious Count Drácula enslaves him and drives him to madness. The two then journey to London, where Drácula secretly preys on socialites, drawing the attention of vampire hunter Van Helsing.
When was Drácula (1931) released?
Drácula had its initial release on March 1, 1931, in Cuba, followed by a Mexican release on April 3, 1931, a Spanish release on March 20, 1931, and a United States release on April 24, 1931.
How long is the 1931 Spanish Drácula film?
The 1931 Spanish-language Drácula has a runtime of 104 minutes, making it notably longer than the English-language Bela Lugosi version, which runs approximately 75 minutes. The additional runtime allows for more extended scenes and atmospheric pacing.
How was Drácula (1931) received by critics?
Initially overlooked for decades, the Spanish Drácula has since been reassessed as a landmark of early horror cinema. Critics widely praise its expressive cinematography, Lupita Tovar's performance, and its bolder visual style compared to the English version, cementing its reputation as a classic.
More About Drácula
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