The Curse of Dracula (1958) is a British horror film directed by Terence Fisher. It is the first in a series of Hammer Horror films featuring the iconic character of Dracula, played by Christopher Lee. The film is loosely based on Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. The story follows Jonathan Harker, a young solicitor who is sent to Transylvania to assist Count Dracula with his property in England. Harker soon realizes that Dracula is not what he seems and becomes trapped in the castle. Meanwhile, Dracula travels to England and begins to seduce Harker's fiancée, Lucy Holmwood.
Deanna Raybourn is the author of the award-winning, New York Times bestselling Lady Julia Grey series, currently in development for television, as well as the USA Today bestselling and Edgar Award nominated Veronica Speedwell Mysteries and several stand-alone works.
While readers of Elizabeth Peters s Amelia Peabody mysteries will enjoy this title, it is fans of Jane Eyre who will truly appreciate the third volume in Rabyourn s historical series following A PERILOUS UNDERTAKING. This disappearance is just the latest in a string of unfortunate events that have plagued the controversial expedition, and rumors abound that the curse of the vengeful princess has been unleashed as the shadowy figure of Anubis himself stalks the streets of London.
Meanwhile, Dracula travels to England and begins to seduce Harker's fiancée, Lucy Holmwood. As the plot unravels, it becomes clear that Dracula is a vampire, a creature who survives by drinking the blood of the living. The film explores themes of seduction, fear, and the battle between good and evil.
A Treacherous Curse - (Veronica Speedwell Mystery) by Deanna Raybourn (Paperback)
"Veronica Speedwell returns in an adventure filled with betrayal and deception from Deanna Raybourn, the New York Times bestselling author of the Lady Julia Grey Mysteries. London, 1888. When archeological photographer John de Morgan mysteriously vanishes with a priceless artifact, Victorian adventuress Veronica Speedwell and her natural historian colleague, Stoker Templeton-Vane, are pulled into a dangerous world of conspiracies and ancient threats. De Morgan, now married to Stoker's former wife, Caroline, was part of the Tiverton expedition, an archeological endeavor which stirred the wrath of a vengeful curse when the crew violated the tomb of an ancient Egyptian princess. Since the discovery of the sarcophagus, they have endured a string of freak accidents, sudden waves of illness, and even deaths. They wonder if it's all been an unfortunate coincidence--or if the expedition is really doomed. Rumors abound, with many convinced that de Morgan and Caroline's disappearance was staged so that they could make off with the treasure. But Veronica and Stoker are not so easily persuaded, and they race to separate the fact from the mystical and discover the truth behind the treacherous curse . "--
Book Synopsis
Members of an Egyptian expedition fall victim to an ancient mummy's curse in this thrilling Veronica Speedwell novel from the New York Times bestselling author of the Lady Julia Grey mysteries.
London, 1888. As colorful and unfettered as the butterflies she collects, Victorian adventuress Veronica Speedwell can't resist the allure of an exotic mystery--particularly one involving her enigmatic colleague, Stoker. His former expedition partner has vanished from an archaeological dig with a priceless diadem unearthed from the newly discovered tomb of an Egyptian princess. This disappearance is just the latest in a string of unfortunate events that have plagued the controversial expedition, and rumors abound that the curse of the vengeful princess has been unleashed as the shadowy figure of Anubis himself stalks the streets of London.
But the perils of an ancient curse are not the only challenges Veronica must face as sordid details and malevolent enemies emerge from Stoker's past. Caught in a tangle of conspiracies and threats--and thrust into the public eye by an enterprising new foe--Veronica must separate facts from fantasy to unravel a web of duplicity that threatens to cost Stoker everything.
Review Quotes
"A ruthlessly intelligent heroine."--NPR
Praise for A TREACHEROUS CURSE
"While readers of Elizabeth Peters's 'Amelia Peabody' mysteries will enjoy this title, it is fans of Jane Eyre who will truly appreciate the third volume in Rabyourn's historical series (following A PERILOUS UNDERTAKING). Her intricately plotted and dramatic story features a strong-willed, independent woman who is the intellectual equal of the brooding Stoker."--Library Journal (Starred review)
"As always, Raybourn writes with verve and wit. A Victorian Phryne Fisher, Veronica is an irresistible, modern, engaging woman who uses scientific observation and natural charm to guide her investigations."--Booklist (Starred review)
"A Treacherous Curse [is] a funny, feminist, historical fiction mystery series that I love. If you haven't started this series yet now's a perfect time to get caught up!"--Book Riot
"[E]xhilarating third mystery featuring Veronica Speedwell and her colleague, Revelstoke "Stoker" Templeton-Vane. In audacious, decidedly un-Victorian Veronica, Raybourn has created a delightful cross between real-life reporter Nellie Bly and Phryne Fisher."--Publishers Weekly
Praise for the Veronica Speedwell Mysteries
"I love this series! Veronica Speedwell is utterly unique--a lady with an intriguing past and some rare kick-ass skills--definitely not your standard historical mystery detective. Her relationship with the brooding and equally mysterious Stoker is fascinating. The plots are clever and fast-paced. I can't wait for the next adventure."--Amanda Quick, New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Knew Too Much
"Veronica Speedwell is sure to join the greats of mystery fiction."--Alan Bradley, New York Times bestselling author of the Flavia de Luce series
"Veronica Speedwell might just be one of the most endearing heroines in mysteries, period. [a] woman ahead of her Victorian times. She's smart, dashing, and entirely capable. Her sense of humor and chemistry with Stoker, her counterpart, just make this series even better."--Bustle
"Wickedly clever and devilishly amusing."--Susan Elia MacNeal, New York Times bestselling author of the Maggie Hope series
"I love this book! Brings us the powerful Veronica Speedwell, who triumphs over adversity and danger with wit, charm, and uncanny determination. A real find."--Robyn Carr, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Virgin River series
"A smart, plucky, way-ahead-of-her-time heroine. The ending left me looking forward to Veronica's next exploits."--Fort Worth Star-Telegram
"A fun heroine who defies convention and embraces intrigue."--Booklist
"A fine combination of detective story and character study. sure to interest mystery lovers and Anglophiles alike."--Historical Novels Review
"Full of innuendo and amusing repartee, Deanna Raybourn's sly wit will be appreciated by readers of romance and historical fiction alike. a fun read, reminiscent of Elizabeth Peters's novels, whose cross-genre charm is sure to appeal to readers."--Shelf Awareness
About the Author
Deanna Raybourn is the author of the award-winning, New York Times bestselling Lady Julia Grey series, currently in development for television, as well as the USA Today bestselling and Edgar Award nominated Veronica Speedwell Mysteries and several standalone works.
"I love this book! Brings us the powerful Veronica Speedwell, who triumphs over adversity and danger with wit, charm, and uncanny determination. A real find."--Robyn Carr, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Virgin River series
Dracula's power over women is a central element of the narrative, as he seeks to create a new generation of creatures of the night. The Curse of Dracula is notable for its atmospheric cinematography and gothic set design, which became trademarks of Hammer Horror films. Christopher Lee's portrayal of Dracula is also iconic, with his striking physical presence and commanding performance. The film was a commercial success and launched a successful franchise that would span several sequels. Although The Curse of Dracula diverges from Bram Stoker's novel in various ways, it remains a classic interpretation of the character. It captures the essence of Dracula as a seductive and terrifying villain, and its impact on the horror genre is still felt today. The film's success paved the way for Hammer Horror to become one of the most celebrated and influential production companies in the genre..
Reviews for "Exploring Drsula's Motivations: A Psychoanalytic Perspective"
- John - 1 star
The Curse of Dracula was a complete disappointment. The acting was cringeworthy and the storyline was predictable. I understand that this movie was made in 1958, but that's not an excuse for the lack of effort put into it. The special effects were laughable and the characters were one-dimensional. Save yourself the time and watch a better vampire movie instead.
- Sarah - 2 stars
I was looking forward to watching The Curse of Dracula, but it fell short of my expectations. The pacing was slow and the plot felt disjointed. The dialogue seemed forced and the acting was subpar. The makeup and special effects were also underwhelming. I wouldn't recommend this movie to fellow horror fans, as there are much better choices out there.
- Michael - 1 star
I found The Curse of Dracula to be incredibly boring and unoriginal. The story felt tired and recycled, with no fresh or interesting take on the vampire genre. The film lacked suspense and failed to create any real sense of fear or tension. The performances were uninspired, and the ending was anticlimactic. I would advise skipping this movie and opting for a more engaging vampire flick.