Abhira 
Romanian director Radu Jude, known for his bold filmmaking in Do Not Expect Too Much From the End of the World and Kontinental ‘25, brings his latest feature, Dracula, to the prestigious Locarno Film Festival. This new vampire flick is far from traditional, packing in rowdy energy and unexpected elements, including explicit scenes that push boundaries and challenge the viewer.
Dracula is a cinematic whirlwind that tries to be too many films at once. Jude’s signature style of blending intense social commentary with provocative narratives is on full display. The film reimagines the classic vampire tale, infusing it with a raw and rowdy modern edge. Its bold approach is both a strength and a weakness — while the film has powerful moments, it sometimes feels overwhelmed by its own ambition.
What sets Dracula apart from typical vampire movies is its fearless exploration of adult themes, including sexuality, which is depicted with an unflinching stance. This brings a fresh, if controversial, layer to the vampire mythos that rarely sees such open treatment in mainstream cinema. At the same time, the film retains a cinematic queerness intertwined with horror elements, making it a distinctive entry in the genre.
Radu Jude’s direction is unmistakably auteur, as he crafts a story loaded with symbolism and cultural references, rooted deeply in Romanian history and folklore. The film’s atmosphere is thick and immersive, capturing a haunting vibe that appeals to fans of art-house horror but may alienate those expecting a conventional Dracula story.
Though the film aims high with its ambitious storytelling, Dracula occasionally suffers from pacing issues and a narrative density that can be overwhelming. However, these aspects contribute to the movie’s unique voice and underline Jude’s commitment to pushing cinematic boundaries.
In summary, Dracula at Locarno stands out as a daring and provocative take on the vampire genre. It’s a film that demands attention and challenges conventions with its rowdy, boundary-pushing style. For viewers seeking a vampire movie that is unconventional and layered with adult themes, Radu Jude’s Dracula offers a fresh yet complex cinematic experience.
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