Research and Planning: BFI

We went to visit the BFI where we were able to use the computers to look at documentaries of making of horror films. I specifically looked at the old and new version of Dracula to look at the difference in effect and technology. In addition to this I also looked at a documentary that had been made about Dracula informing me why it was made in the first place.


Dracula (1958)

• Was given a 12 certificate.
• Universal International and Hammer Studio's were the companies behind this film.
• Shot in black and white.
• Villain is shot in a black long cloak to suggest mystery.
• Victim has been shot in white clothing, failing that, light clothing.
• Most was shot in high key lighting which was surprising since you expect it to be very dark and intense where as in this version it's very different since the only time it changes to low lighting is when Dracula goes to bite the victim.

Dracula (2006)

• Was given a 15 certificate.
• The editing is a lot more effective, faster and it's more varied.
• Most scenes are shot in low key lighting creating more suspense.
• A green tint has been used throughout the beginning which makes it look more effective.
• The sound is creepier and sounds more realistic and better quality. In addition the sound suddenly comes to a Holt, making you think something is going to make you jump.
• Mise-en-scene is similar to before but because better editing is used, it makes it scarier.
• More pauses are used which creates an idea of suspicion and creates tension.
• There's more blood and gore included. For example, when Dracula dies at the end, it's quite disturbing and we also see him twist someones head off.

Dracula documentry. Nightmare: The Birth Of Horror.

• This was made in 1996.
• It says that the reason that it was made is because of a man called Bram Stoker. He had a nightmare one night of 3 vampires and the witches from MacBeth. This and the idea of vampires inspired him.
• It was set in Villa Diodati on the shores of Lake Geneva.
• Mise-en-scene consisted of old fashioned houses, fireplaces and wooden floorboards.

I also looked at the old version of Sweeney Todd.

• Was made in 1936.
• This was given a PG certificate.
• Was shot in Black and White but still lighting was used really well.
• Costumes were like long dresses for women, bonnets etc.
• Set in city, busy and packed.
• Special effects in the new one made it more scary, even though it was a musical.
• No fast editing, no different editing transitions.

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