Abhira 
Romanian director Radu Jude, known for his thought-provoking works such as Do Not Expect Too Much From the End of the World and Kontinental ‘25, presents his latest feature, Dracula, which premiered in competition at the prestigious Locarno Film Festival. This film delivers a loud, energetic, and highly unconventional take on the vampire legend, boldly pushing boundaries with its raw and graphic content.
A Bold and Unconventional Vampire Tale
Dracula is far from a traditional vampire film. Jude infuses the movie with:
- Frenetic energy and a bold style that feels like multiple films merged into one
- An intense, sometimes overwhelming cinematic experience blending horror, eroticism, and social commentary
- Unapologetically explicit scenes, including graphic depictions of fellatio, integral to the film’s provocative tone
Distinctive Direction and Themes
Jude’s direction is distinctive and uncompromising. His fresh perspective on the Dracula myth intertwines:
- Satirical elements
- Raw human behavior
- A broad symbolization of societal themes through the vampire figure
The narrative is dense and layered, reflecting Jude’s auteur style that challenges conventional storytelling norms.
Reception and Highlights
Despite its chaotic and sometimes excessive nature, Dracula captivates audiences with its:
- Bold vision
- Fearless approach to rarely explored subject matter in mainstream cinema
- Intense performances that embrace the provocative script and enhance the unsettling ambiance
Screened at Locarno, a festival known for its daring and artistically ambitious cinema, the film fits perfectly within this tradition by defying genre expectations and pushing cinematic limits.
Summary
Radu Jude’s Dracula is a heady mix of art, excess, and shock that will likely polarize audiences but undeniably leave a lasting impression. Its combination of rowdy, explicit content and auteur craftsmanship places it among the most talked-about films at Locarno 2025.
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