Count Dracula is a name everyone is familiar with, whether it is the classic Christopher Lee films or the child-friendly Hotel Transylvania films. So it goes without saying that this is one character that has become iconic over time, ever since his debut in Bram Stoker’s famous novel. There have been many iterations and many rules when it comes to Dracula and his powers, and you would have thought have over time we have seen it all and there is nothing left to tell. Luckily there are still a lot of ways to tell his story and the film Renfield puts the emphasis on his servant of the same name and how he has had enough of being nothing more than Dracula’s pet. The amazing thing about this film is that it feels stylish, funny and very gory, with a very modern and fun spin on the horror genre as well.
Nicolas Cage as Dracula is inspired by casting. The actor is known for going over the top with his performances and being just a tad bit eccentric and mad. Just look at The Wicker Man for the best example of this. Cage’s version of Dracula feels inspired by the Christopher Lee version but he appears more unhinged and more impulsive than any other incarnation we have seen before. His relationship with Renfield, played by Nicholas Hoult, is the driving force behind the film. It is a toxic relationship and Dracula does use and gaslights Renfield at any and every opportunity he gets. You do feel sorry for Renfield, even if he does go around killing people for his Dark Lord. The film does not take itself seriously and that is a great thing cause it gives Cage and Hoult the freedom to really let loose and makes the dramatic moments and comedic moments work in unison with each other.
There are not a lot of faults with this film which is surprising as the tone could easily get lost, but there really isn’t any other film like Renfield. The neon-soaked interiors remind you of John Wick and the casting of Awkwafina and Ben Schwartz makes it almost feel like a light-hearted thriller. There are moments which are over-the-top and crazy like when Renfield goes on a blood rage in his apartment complex. It really does go to some graphic and violent places which does warrant its high film certification. If you don’t like the sight of blood then I would not recommend this film. It doesn’t feel like a horror film either and yet it also doesn’t feel completely like a comedy. It’s a mixed bag and it feels like its own thing, but the film goes with it and plays with the genres in new and inventive ways. It aims to surprise and it certainly does deliver.
Renfield is not just about the fun and it does explore some heavy themes such as police corruption, right versus wrong moral codes and how toxic relationships affect the victim and how hard it is to come out of them. The film starts in a therapy session and this kind of acts as the centre of the film as this is where Renfield, the character, feels safest. It is when Dracula disturbs his therapy group that really sets Renfield off on a journey of self-discovery and learning to be his own person. It is unusual for a film such as a film to explore a heavy theme such as this, but it makes you care for the characters more and keeps the film grounded despite its lavish and graphic depictions of violence.
Renfield honours Dracula’s legacy very well but mentions his past and also asking his relevance in the world today. It is rare to see a film stand on its own without any sequel baiting or world-building. It is refreshing and despite that, I really want to see more of these characters bicker and playoff with each other even more. The filmmakers did a great job with the re-telling of such an iconic character, even if it is overly wacky in places. The visual effects and prosthetics are very well utilised, with some perfect song choices thrown in there as well for a good mix. I very rarely get surprised by films, but thanks to the sneaky marketing and charismatic performances this film really did win me over.
★★★★☆
4/5
Final Verdict:
Renfield is a hidden gem. Hiding amongst the tentpole blockbusters of the year I feel like this film will sadly be overseen, but over time I can see Renfield getting the recognition it deserves. The acting from all the cast, from Nicolas Cage to Ben Schwartz, is certainly a highlight amongst many other highlights. The film doesn’t stop once it starts and it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It isn’t the dark gothic tale we are used to, instead, it’s a bright and colourful version of a story that almost is over-told. Dracula and Renfield have never looked this good before!
Thanks for reading today’s blog!
Alex Murray, the Head of Eyesight Productions
Comments