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In the film, ‘Horror of Dracula,’ the character of Dracula reflects an unpredictable yet charismatic

man. Terence Fisher makes use of dim lighting and, like in the scene where Dracula first appears,
making the audience feel that he is a rather eerie and uncanny character. The language of colour is
also used in the film, for example Dracula’s neat black clothes that wrapped him from head to toe,
assisting in making Dracula seem spine-chilling as in the language of colours, black is used to
symbolise grief, darkness, and death. Next, however, the director utilises elegant speech, “I welcome
you … apologise for not being here to greet you personally”, showcasing Dracula as a well-mannered
and polite man, contrary to the expectations of the audience. This brilliant way of introducing
Dracula’s character intrigues the audience, making them want to uncover what kind of person he is
behind the mask of a polite man, establishing him as unpredictable and mysterious. Dracula is not
only unpredictable but is also presented as a rather attractive and charismatic man. Fisher
implements close shots in the film, like the scene of Lucy’s yearning and infatuated face, showcasing
that Dracula was a rather tempting man as he made the young Lucy besotted with him. Dancing is
also used in the film to showcase happiness, for example in the scene where Lucy was preparing to
greet Dracula, showcasing her enjoyment in the fact that she was soon to meet Dracula. The film
also utilizes dramatic music throughout the scene, one part being when Lucy put aside her crucifix
and lay welcomingly on her bed, building atmosphere and tension among the audience as they are
shown the romantic feelings she has for Dracula. The use of these techniques makes it more obvious
that the young Lucy is in love with the vampire, clearly showing that he is an attractive man as he has
the ability to charm people. ‘Horror of Dracula’ portrays Dracula as an unpredictable and attractive
man, with these contrasting personalities making the film more intriguing, building a mysterious
atmosphere and helping the audience learn more about the personality traits of vampires.

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