10 Classic Halloween Movies To Watch This October 2021
9. Dracula (Spanish Version)
With Bela Lugosi's career-defining performance as the titular character in 1931's Dracula, the Transylvanian Count instantly became one of the most legendary characters in cinema.
However, that wasn't the only film adaptation of Bram Stoker's novel released that year. George Melford directed a Spanish version of Dracula at the same time, using the same script, same set, and the same costumes! During the day, Lugosi's version was filmed. When everything wrapped during the night, Melford would step in and direct his version.
Watching the films now back-to-back is fascinating since they are astoundingly different despite having the same script (except the Spanish version has more dialogue). Although Lugosi portrayed Dracula with grace and poise, his Spanish counterpart, Carlos Villarias, depicts the bloodsucking Count as an unhinged maniac.
Even though Lugosi's portrayal is considered superior, the Spanish version is regarded as a better film. Melford focused more on camera angles, atmosphere, and music while Browning focused on the actors' performances.
If you have seen the English-speaking version, it's worth watching the Spanish one to see the same story in a whole different light.